Why does my printer say offline

HP Printer Offline- How To Get Printer Back Online

Your printer has received a number of files, but it has not printed any of them. The status of the printer is displayed as “Offline” in the Windows Settings menu. What does this indicate, and how can you resolve a PC printer that is locked in the offline state? 

A printer will typically say “Offline” if your computer is unable to connect to the device. This might be brought on by issues with crucial system functions, out-of-date printer drivers, loose cable connections, etc. To get your printer online from the offline state, implement the suggested changes listed below.

A network or cable connection to the printer should be checked

Check that the printer is properly connected to the power socket and turned on before you start fiddling with your PC’s settings. Ensure your PC and printer are connected to the same wireless network when using wireless printers.


Restart the printer

In the event that nothing has worked so far, switch off the printer, give it a few minutes to cool down, then turn it back on. Alternatively, unplug the printer from the power supply, give it a moment, then plug it back in.


Restart the computer

Another potential cause of the issue is a temporary computer system error. Shut down your computer then turn it back on after disconnecting or unplugging the printer.


Update the printer’s firmware

If there is a firmware issue with your printer, it may show offline. Install the most recent firmware for the printer if a firmware bug is the main cause. A firmware update can be downloaded directly from the printer, from the manufacturer’s website, or through the printer software.


Activate the printer troubleshooter

Let the Printer Troubleshooter assist you if you still can’t get your printer online. It is a built-in-tool that detects and resolves printer offline issues.

  • Select Additional troubleshooters under Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
  • Click the Run the troubleshooter button after selecting Printer.

Window Print Spooler should be restarted

The execution of print tasks and the discovery of printers on Windows devices are both supported by the Print Spooler, a crucial system component. In the event that the Print Spooler service isn’t active, your printer can show as “Offline.” Make that everything is in working order by visiting the Windows Services Manager.

  • Right-click the Start menu icon and choose Run.

  • Click OK after entering or pasting services.msc into the dialogue box. The Windows Services Manager will start up after that.
  • Select Restart from the context menu when you right-click Print Spooler in the list of services.

Removing and installing the printer from scratch

Removing and installing the printer from scratch is occasionally the best course of action. Do the following after unplugging or disconnecting your printer from your computer.

  • Select the malfunctioning printer by selecting it in Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners, then click the Remove device button.

  • To continue, answer “Yes” to the confirmation message.

  • Decide whether to add a printer or scanner.

Run Windows Updates

The most recent drivers for your devices are automatically downloaded and installed by Windows. Installing the most recent Windows Update may be able to fix your printer’s “Offline” status problem if it is caused by an out-of-date or problematic driver. Select Check for Updates from the Settings menu, then select Update & Security > Windows Update.


Also Read: My HP Printer is Offline

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