My printer says it’s offline

1. The simple checks

• Make sure the printer is on, has paper, and shows no error on its screen or lights.
• For a wireless printer, check that its screen or Wi-Fi light shows it’s connected to your network. If it isn’t, reconnect it from its own menu (look for a Wi-Fi or Wireless setup option).
• For a USB printer, check the cable at both ends and try a different USB port.

2. Restart everything

1. Turn the printer off and unplug it for 30 seconds, then plug it in and turn it on.
2. Restart your computer or phone.
3. Wait a couple of minutes, then try printing again.

3. Windows: clear “Use Printer Offline”

1. Open Settings, then Bluetooth & devices, then Printers & scanners (on Windows 10: Devices, Printers & scanners).
2. Click your printer, then Open print queue.
3. In the window that opens, click Printer in the menu bar. If “Use Printer Offline” has a check mark, click it to turn it off.
4. Also cancel any stuck documents in the list (Printer, Cancel All Documents).

4. Remove the printer and add it again

• Windows: in Printers & scanners, choose your printer, click Remove, then click Add device and pick it again.
• Mac: open System Settings, Printers & Scanners, select the printer and click the minus (−) button, then the plus (+) button to add it again.
• iPhone or iPad: printing is through AirPrint. The printer must be on the same Wi-Fi network as the phone. Restarting both usually fixes it.

Good to know: If it works for a day and then goes offline again, the printer may be getting a different address from your router each time. Send me a ticket with the printer’s make and model and I can walk you through fixing it for good.