Abstract: A system and method for transferring and printing files originating on mainframe computer systems, workstations, or personal computers connected within a heterogeneous computer network is disclosed. The printer controller coordinates the distribution of print files across multiple computer systems to attached printers for printing. In response to incoming files received from another computer system within the network, the system utilizes file mask attributes to automatically generate transfer requests and print requests. In response to user inputs through a graphical user interface, the system updates various file databases, print attribute and transfer attribute libraries, and system configurations before generating a transfer or print request. Support for multiple page description languages and multiple printers is provided.