The status of the printer is checked in Windows Settings. It reads "Offline." How can you fix it? If your computer cannot establish communication with the printer, it will show "Offline". It could be caused by problems such as loose cables, outdated printer drivers, or other system issues. To get your printer online, follow the steps below.
Verify the Cable or Network Connection of your Printer
Before you start tweaking the settings on your computer, ensure that the printer is properly plugged in to the power outlet. hp printer offline windows 10 Wireless printers require that your printer and PC are connected to the same network.
After a few minutes of inactivity, some printers will go into "Sleep Mode". The printer will go into sleep mode and appear offline on your computer. To "wake" the printer, press its power button (or any other button). Wait for a few seconds to see if the printer status changes to "Online".
Also, ensure the cable that connects the printer to your router or computer fits in the correct port. You should also connect the printer to your computer's port directly, and not via a USB hub. If the printer does not appear to be connected, you can switch it to another port on your router or computer.
Reboot the router to enable wireless printer connections. Then, reconnect the printer with the network.
Get Tips from the Printer's Stat Light
Windows will mark your printer as "Offline" when there is a problem. You can check the status lights to see if your printer has a problem. If the Wi-Fi light flashes red on a wireless printer, it's most likely that there is a problem with its Wi-Fi connection.
Other issues such as a failed firmware update or jammed paper inside the cassette could also be indicated by status lights. To learn more about the status lights, refer to your printer's manual or manufacturer's website.
Windows: Disable the Printer Offline Mode
Next, make sure that your printer is not in "Use Printer Offline".
- Go to Settings > Devices> and choose the printer you are interested in from the "Printers&Scanners" section.
- Select Open queue.
- Select Printer from the menu bar. Make sure "Use Printer offline" is not checked. To bring your printer back online, click on the checkmark next the option.
Restart the printer
If the printer is still not working, turn off the power source and wait for it to cool down. Alternately, unplug your printer from the power supply, wait for a while, then plug it back in.
Reboot Your Computer
Your computer may also have a temporary problem. Turn off your computer and unplug the printer. Then, reconnect it by turning the printer on again.
Updating the Firmware for your Printer
If your printer's firmware is not working properly, it can cause the printer to malfunction. Install the most recent firmware version to fix the problem. Download the latest firmware directly from the printer or manufacturer's website.
Troubleshooting a Printer
The Printer Troubleshooter can help you find a solution to getting your printer online. It is a tool that automatically detects and corrects printing problems on Windows devices.
- Go to Settings > Update and Security > Troubleshoot, then select Additional troubleshooters.
- Click on the Printer option and then click on the Run the troubleshooter button.
This tool will inspect your network printer's configuration and check for errors in the Spooler service or print queue. It will recommend the best solutions if it finds a problem with the printer.
Troubleshoot the Printer's Software
Software that addresses printing issues can be found in many printer brands. HP has, for instance, a "Print & Scan Doctor" tool which diagnoses problems with HP printers on Windows computers.
To confirm that your printer model has an app, contact your printer manufacturer. You can also visit the "Support", or "Downloads" sections of the manufacturer's site to download the printer management software.
Restart the Windows Print Spooler
The Print Spooler component is critical to the operation of Windows printers and printing jobs. If the Print Spooler isn't running, your printer might appear "Offline". Check out the Windows Services Manager to make sure everything is in order.
