Troubleshooting Common Printing Issues

If you are unable to print or your printer is not responding, follow the steps below to quickly diagnose and resolve the most common printing problems.

1. Check Basic Connections

Verify the Printer Is Powered On

• Make sure the printer has power, and the display (if applicable) is lit.

• Ensure no error lights or messages are showing on the printer screen.

Check the Cables

• If using USB: confirm the cable is fully plugged into both the printer and computer.

• If using Ethernet: make sure the network cable is connected and the network indicator light is on.

2. Check Network & Wi-Fi Connections

If the printer is network- or Wi-Fi-connected:

• Ensure the printer is connected to the same network as your computer.

• Restart the printer and allow it to reconnect to Wi-Fi.

• Try printing from another device to determine whether the issue is device-specific.

3. Verify Printer Status on Your Computer

Windows

1. Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners

2. Select your printer

3. Make sure it is set as the default

4. Click Open Queue and clear any stuck jobs

macOS

1. Open System Settings > Printers & Scanners

2. Select your printer

3. Remove and re-add the printer if it shows as offline

4. Clear Stuck Print Jobs

Print jobs can jam in the print queue and block new jobs.

Windows:

1. Search for Services

2. Find Print Spooler

3. Click Restart

4. Reprint your document

macOS:

• Open the printer queue and remove any pending jobs

• Restart the printer and try again

5. Check Paper, Toner, & Ink Levels

• Ensure the printer has paper

• Confirm there are no paper jams

• Check toner or ink levels in the printer menu or software

• Replace cartridges if low or empty

6. Restart Devices

A simple restart can resolve many temporary issues:

• Restart the printer

• Restart your computer

• Restart the router (for Wi-Fi printers)

7. Reinstall or Update Printer Drivers

Drivers can become outdated or corrupted.

• Download and install the latest printer driver from the manufacturer’s website

• Remove the printer from your system, then add it again

• Windows users can also run Windows Update to refresh drivers

8. Check for Error Messages

If the printer shows an error:

• Look for error codes on the printer display

• Refer to the printer manual or the manufacturer’s support page

• Common errors: paper jam, low toner, offline, tray empty, misfeed

9. Try Printing a Test Page

This helps determine if the issue is with the printer or your device.

• From the printer’s control panel: look for Print Test Page

• From your computer: use the printer settings menu

10. Contact Support

If you have completed the steps above and still cannot print, please contact our support team with:

• Printer model

• Whether the printer is USB, Wi-Fi, or network-connected

• Any error messages displayed

• A screenshot of your print queue (if applicable)

We will assist you with advanced diagnostics or schedule on-site support if needed.