From LQWiki

The majority of modern Linux distributions use CUPS as their printing system, but each distribution provides their own tools for creating and managing access to printers. There is no set method for doing this - it is best to consult the distribution specific documentation for a step-by-step guide.

In order to set up a network printer you will need to know the IP address or hostname of the machine it is attached to, the model of the printer, and the type of network sharing used:

SMB print queues are printers attached to Windows computers. Note that you will need the Samba client software installed on your Linux system in order to access these.

Mac OS X also uses CUPS. Older versions of MacOS use AppleTalk, which may require you to have netatalk installed.

Printers attached to the network by print server boxes (such as HP's JetDirect units) can be connected to as if they were servers in their own right. Some printers have built-in print servers and are attached directly to the network. The controls of a print server are also accessed from the network by connecting to its IP address with a Web browser or telnet.

Older Linux and UNIX systems use LPR or its successor LPRNG. NetWare has its own printer sharing protocol.