cups-lpd - Linux

Overview

cups-lpd is a print server daemon that provides compatibility with traditional line printer daemon (LPD) systems. It allows Linux systems to share printers with Windows and other LPD-based clients.

Syntax

cups-lpd [options]

Options/Flags

• -c, –config-file : Specify an alternate configuration file.
• -d, –debug-level <0-9>: Set the debugging level; 0 for minimal, 9 for maximum.
• -f, –foreground: Run in the foreground instead of detaching.
• -h, –help: Show a help message.
• -l, –listen : Listen on the specified TCP port (default: 515).
• -p, –printer : Specify the printer to share.
• -t, –timeout : Set the connection timeout (default: 60).

Examples

Basic Usage

Share the printer named "MyPrinter":

cups-lpd -p MyPrinter

Listen on a Specific Port

Listen on port 8080:

cups-lpd -l 8080

Debugging Mode

Run with debugging level 5:

cups-lpd -d 5

Common Issues

• Error connecting to LPD client: Ensure the LPD client is configured correctly and the network connection is stable.
• Print jobs not being processed: Check if the printer is powered on and connected, and verify the printer configuration in the CUPS web interface.

Integration

• Use with cups-pdf to convert incoming LPD print jobs to PDF files for archival.
• Integrate with samba to allow Windows clients to access the printer over a network share.

Related Commands

• cupsd: Main CUPS print server daemon
• lpr: Print a file to an LPD-based printer
• lpq: Manage print jobs in an LPD queue