It can be extremely frustrating when your office computer recognizes the printer but just won’t print. It slows your productivity and forces you to waste time troubleshooting. Unfortunately, there are many factors that can make your printer go offline. At WiZiX Technology Group, we’ve seen a wide range of printer problems in our experience repairing and maintaining them for California businesses. If your printer is not responding, try these tips to resolve the issue faster.
Why Is My Printer Offline? Seven Things to Try When Your Printer Is Not Responding
1: Check Printer Power, Cables, and Paper
It may seem obvious, but the first thing you always should do when you have trouble connecting to your printer is to make sure it is turned on. Then, you should check all of the cables connected to your printer for damage, and ensure they are firmly plugged in. Check that the correct paper is properly loaded into the printer and is not jammed. Replacing damaged cables, plugging in loose or disconnected cables, and fixing paper jams as necessary may resolve the issue.
2: Check Your Internet Connection
Problems with your internet connection are another common reason why your printer is not responding. Check to see if your internet router is working, and make sure that your printer is connected to the same wireless network as your computer. If your printer is part of the same network and your internet is working, the printer may be out of range, or your internet connection might be too weak. Try connecting your printer to your computer with a cable for a stronger connection.
3: Clear Printer Jobs
Previous print job errors can prevent your printer from printing new jobs. Click on the printer icon on your computer screen to open up the printer queue and clear all of the pending jobs. Make sure to clear the printer’s “Pause Printing” and “Use Printer Offline” settings if they are selected in the settings menu because they can also cause issues with your connection.
4: Restart Both Your Computer and Printer
Sometimes, a simple reboot can clear whatever is causing the problem with your printer. Turn off your printer and computer and wait at least 30 seconds before turning them back on. Then test the printer connection after both have fully booted back up, to see if your printer is back online.
5: Make Sure Your Printer Is Set as the Default
If your printer is not the default printer, your computer won’t connect to it automatically. To ensure your computer uses the correct printer every time, follow these steps:
- In Windows, press the “Start” (windows) button, then click “Settings.” Go to “Devices,” then “Printers and Scanners” and choose your printer. Lastly, select “Set as Default.”
- On a Mac, go to the Apple menu and choose “System Preferences,” then “Printers and Scanners.” Click the “Default Printer” option and select your printer.
6: Update Your Printer Driver
Printers require frequent updates in order to remain secure and continue functioning properly. To update your printer, go to the manufacturer’s website and download the latest driver that is compatible with your computer operating system. If your printer is outdated, it may stop receiving automatic updates, which can lead to security issues, slower printing, and other printer problems.
7: Remove and Reinstall the Printer Software
The issue with your printer may be due to an installation error. Remove your printer software from your computer by going to the “Printers and Scanners” menu, choosing your printer, and clicking “Remove Device.” After the device is uninstalled, go to the “Printers and Scanners” settings and choose “Add Device.” Then, follow the instructions for installing your printer on the manufacturer’s website.
Printer Repair in Northern California
If you tried our troubleshooting tips but your printer is still not responding, it’s time to hire a professional. The experienced technicians at WiZiX Technology Group can identify and resolve the problem with your printer in no time. We also offer preventive care with our affordable service and maintenance agreements to reduce the risk of future issues with your office equipment. Call us at 866-846-1411 today to request a quote.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (6/28/2022). Photo by Elisa Ventur on Unsplash