Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fix Offline Printer on Windows and Mac
With the advancement of technology also come the issues and trouble you need to face to get it up and running. This may include setting it up, connecting to your Wi-Fi network, keeping it working, etc.
One of the most common issues that wireless printer users deal with is Offline Printer error. This issue usually occurs when your printer and computer cannot communicate with each other. The most common culprits for this issue are when you change your Wi-Fi password, your printer has an outdated driver, or you change your router.
In this article, we will discuss on how to fix offline printer and the step-by-step procedure on how to make printer online from offline.
Note: Before proceeding with the troubleshooting steps, ensure that your printer is powered on and properly connected to your computer or network. Also, this troubleshooting steps apply for all printer brands.
For Windows:
Step 1: Check the Printer’s Connection
- Verify that the printer’s USB cable is securely connected to your computer. If you’re using a wireless printer, ensure that it is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your computer. If you need help on how to connect your printer to the Wi-Fi network, just click How to enable wireless connection on your printer, and you will be redirected to the right page.
Step 2: Set Printer as Default
- Click on the “Start” button and select “Settings” (gear icon).
2. In the Settings window, click on “Devices” and then select “Printers & scanners” from the left sidebar.
3. Locate your printer in the list of available printers and click on it.
4. Click on the “Manage” button and select “Set as default” from the drop-down menu.
Step 3: Clear Print Queue
- Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
- Type “services.msc” and hit Enter to open the Services window.
3. Scroll down and locate the “Print Spooler” service.
4. Right-click on “Print Spooler” and select “Stop” from the context menu.
5. Minimize the Services window but keep it open.
6. Open File Explorer and navigate to the following path: C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS.
7. Delete all the files in the PRINTERS folder.
8. Maximize the Services window, right-click on “Print Spooler,” and select “Start” from the context menu.
Step 4: Restart Printer and Computer
- Turn off your printer and unplug it from the power source.
- Restart your computer.
- After the computer has restarted, plug in your printer and turn it on.
Step 5: Update Printer Drivers
- Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
- Type “devmgmt.msc” and hit Enter to open the Device Manager.
3. Expand the “Print queues” category.
4. Right-click on your printer and select “Update driver” from the context menu.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to update the driver.
For Mac:
Step 1: Check Printer Connection
- Verify that the printer’s USB cable is securely connected to your Mac. If using a wireless printer, ensure that it is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Mac, as this will help us on how to make printer online from offline.
Step 2: Reset Printing System
- Click on the Apple menu and select “System Preferences.”
2. In the System Preferences window, click on “Printers & Scanners.”
3. Right-click (or Control-click) on the printer list and select “Reset printing system.”
4. Confirm the action by clicking “Reset” in the pop-up window.
5. Enter your Mac’s administrator username and password if prompted.
Step 3: Add Printer Again
- After the printing system has been reset, click on the “+” button in the Printers & Scanners window to add a new printer.
2. Select your printer from the list of available printers or click on “Add Printer or Scanner” to search for it.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the printer setup process.
Step 4: Restart Printer and Mac
- Turn off your printer and unplug it from the power source.
- Restart your Mac.
- After the Mac has restarted, plug in your printer and turn it on.
How to make printer online from offline, is as easy as one, two, and three. Remember to check the wireless connection of your printer and make sure that it is connected to the network where your PC or laptop is also connected. Follow the troubleshooting steps on how to fix offline printer, and you should be able to get it up and running in no time. Happy printing!
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Thanks for reading! Leave a comment if you have any questions. Looking to save money on your printing projects? Check out www.compandsave.com for some great deals on printer ink and accessories! Remember to follow our blog for more interesting printing-related tips and guides.
About the Author
Jomar Samudio is one of the Search Engine Optimization specialists in CompAndSave. CompAndSave is located in Union City, California, and is a retailer and wholesaler of printing supplies. Starting as a Customer Service Representative for CompAndSave, Jomar has a wide array of knowledge about printers, ink, and toner cartridges, which can help people get better insights and understanding about printers and cartridges. Jomar knows the importance of great Customer Service, so he is here to provide thorough details about frequently asked questions regarding printers and cartridges.
