Which parameter must be set in the [global] section of smb.conf for Samba to use printers managed by CUPS?

The parameter that must be set in the [global] section of smb.conf for Samba to use printers managed by CUPS is indeed setting up the printcap file correctly. By specifying the correct printcap parameter, Samba is directed to the location of the CUPS print configuration, which enables it to utilize the printer definitions and settings managed by the CUPS system.

CUPS (Common UNIX Printing System) utilizes a database file that contains details about all the printers, and by pointing to the correct printcap file, Samba can reference this database to interact with printers. This setup allows for centralized management of printing services through CUPS while enabling Samba to provide access to those printers over the network.

Other choices, while related to printer management in Samba, do not serve this specific purpose. For instance, "printing = cups" is a common parameter but does not directly link to the location of the printer configuration. Similarly, the parameters "printcap = /etc/cups/printers.conf" and "print spooler = cups" do not correctly reference how Samba needs to interface with CUPS. The proper use of the printcap variable is essential for establishing the necessary communications between Samba and the CUPS-managed printers.