Despite the technological advancements today, printer issues and computer start-up problems still occur regularly. This can be frustrating, especially when running a business. If you receive an offline message from your printer, there are several reasons why it might have happened. Here are some of the common reasons and how to fix them:
- Connectivity issues with your printer or computer
- Network connection problems
- Your printer drivers may be out of date
- Issues with the printer spooler service
- Your printer may be jammed or out of paper
By checking these possible issues, you can determine the cause and resolve the offline printer problem.
Further troubleshooting
Printers may display an offline status when there is a communication issue between the device and the computer. This could be due to something as simple as a disconnected cable or as complex as a software issue. Here are some possible causes and solutions to troubleshoot an offline printer:
- Check the cable connections and ensure they are properly plugged in
- Clear any paper jams or replace ink cartridges that are low on ink
- Restart both the printer and the computer to refresh the connection
- Check for any pending software updates for your printer’s drivers
- Uninstall and reinstall the printer drivers if necessary
Check the Printer’s Cable or Network Connection
Make sure your printer is properly plugged in and turned on before adjusting your PC settings. For wireless printers, check that both your PC and printer are connected to the same network.
Here are some steps to take if you’re having printer connection issues:
- Check if the printer is in “Sleep mode” and press the power button to wake it up
- Ensure the cable connecting the printer to your computer or router is correctly plugged in
- Connect the printer directly to your PC’s port, not through a USB hub
- Try switching the printer to a different port on your computer or router
Uninstall and Reinstall the Printer
To reset your printer on a Windows computer, navigate to Settings > Devices > Printers and Scanners, select the printer, and click “Remove Device.” Next, uninstall any print software that came with the device.
On a Mac, go to the Apple menu > System Preferences > Printers and Scanners, select the printer you want to delete, and click the “minus button.” For printers with an LCD display, navigate to the reset option using the display. If your printer has no display, check the manufacturer’s website for reset instructions.
After resetting your printer, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install it as if it were new.
Clear your print jobs
If you’re still wondering why your printer is offline, it could be due to a single document causing an issue. To resolve this, consider clearing all print jobs by selecting “cancel all documents.” This will clear the printing queue and enable you to restart your printer.
Still offline?
Have you tried all the steps above and your printer is still offline? Get in touch with the team at DMC Media Solutions. Our customer service team has the expertise and knowledge to help you with any issues you may have with your printer, photocopier of fax machine.
If there’s an issue that requires a more in-depth solution, our in-team of engineers respond to callouts within six hours, and in most cases, arrive within two hours. And remember, with DMC, all callouts and repairs are included in your monthly fee, so you’ll never be hit with an unexpected repair bill. To find out more about this, get a FREE audit on your current printer service, or sign up to our printer hire services so you never have to worry about printer glitches ever again, speak to the DMC team today.
