Nowadays, printers are essential in offices. We print numerous documents, photos, etc, every day as required. But sometimes, the printer showing offline spoils our mood and puts all printing work on hold. Regardless of the printer (wired or wireless), you can’t afford to ignore such technical glitches for a long time. It will result in financial losses or more damage to the printer itself. So, let’s talk more about the main reasons for the printer’s status offline and its solutions. We will also discuss how Tech Dogs can help you in this regard.
A Brief Introduction To Printer Status Offline
When your printer is showing offline, it means your computer or other device can’t communicate with the printer. Users often encounter this problem. Many issues lead to this unpleasant development. You need to address the issue by using the right printer offline fix.
Common Causes of Printer Showing Offline
Many reasons are responsible for this problem. Here are some of them-
Connectivity Issues
Wired Printers- If a loose USB or Ethernet cable disconnects from the printer attached to the computer, it might go offline.
Wireless Printers
A wireless printer’s offline issue is caused by interference from other devices, incorrect network settings, and a weak Wi-Fi signal.
Network Changes
If there is a change in your router or network settings (such as a new Wi-Fi password or router), the printer loses its connection. As a result, it starts showing the message- printer status offline.
Misconfiguration in Printer Settings
If you set “Use Printer Offline” on your computer, it will display the same message even if it is powered on. Remember, an Incorrect IP address or network settings can also lead to such a problem.
Driver or Software Problems
Remember, outdated or corrupted printer drivers stop communication between the computer and the printer. Also, incompatible software updates or operating system changes can lead to an offline issue for a wireless printer.
Printer Hardware Issues
If there is a problem with the printer hardware (such as low ink or toner, paper jams, etc), it will display the printer status offline message. A printer in sleep mode can also lead to this problem. Feel free to get printer maintenance services from Tech Dogs. Our experts analyze the root cause of the problem and offer instant solutions. They will see if the printer works properly after repair work and may perform the necessary work as required.
Network Firewall or Security Settings
You must always keep in mind that firewalls or antivirus often block communication between the computer and the printer. It happens mostly with wireless printers. Incorrect network permissions prevent the printer from connecting with the computer properly & you may start seeing the Printer status offline.
Step-by-Step Process To Fix Printer Offline Status
When you know the exact cause of the printer’s offline status, it becomes easier to fix the problem. Here is the step-by-step process to deal with a wired and wireless printer offline.
Examine The Printer Connectivity
Wired Printer
Connect the USB or Ethernet to the printer and the computer. If the hardware is faulty, try a different cable or port.
Wireless Printer
Examine if the printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your computer. You also need to see the Wi-Fi signal strength. Remember, a weak Wi-Fi signal creates problems in printing. So, move the printer closer to the Wi-FI router and remove other obstacles that block the Wi-Fi signal. After this, restart the router and printer. It will refresh the connection, and your printer may start working again. If the problem is not gone, make sure the printer’s firmware is updated. Remember, outdated firmware can lead to connectivity issues & your printer may not work.
See The Printer Status
- Navigate to the control panel & click on “Devices and Printers.”
- Right-click your printer and ensure “Use Printer Offline” is not enabled. If it is, disable it to restore its online status.
- Choose the “Set as Default Printer” setting. The printer will start working again.
Cancel Pending Print Jobs
If there are too many pending printing jobs, it may lead to the printer being offline. You just need to open the print queue and cancel all documents. Your printer might start working smoothly like before.
Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers
Remember, outdated or corrupted drivers often lead to a printer showing offline. So, take the following actions to resolve the problem-
- Uninstall the existing drivers from your computer.
- Download the latest drivers for your printer model from the manufacturer’s website.
- Restart your computer and see if the problem is resolved or not.
Test on Another Device
Many times, printers don’t work properly if there is an issue in your computer’s settings on software. So, connect the printer to another computer or device to know the root cause of the problem and take further steps accordingly.
Reinstall the Printer
If the above-mentioned steps do not work, then you should remove and reinstall the printer. While reinstalling the printer, follow the manufacturer’s setup instructions correctly. It might resolve the problem and the printer will start working again.
If there are advanced issues that you understand or can’t fix yourself, Tech Dogs free printer maintenance services are always available. Our experts will resolve all issues and make your printer work again.
Conclusion
Printers showing offline messages cause disappointment when you have to print multiple documents back to back. Don’t worry; by following the above-mentioned recommendations, you can get your printer back online. Feel free to contact Techdogs for professional maintenance of your printer. We fix all issues with your device and make it run smoothly again.
