Printer shows offline in Windows: how to fix it

The printer is usually fine. Windows has lost track of it, or it is pointed at the wrong port or address.

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Steps

  1. Turn the printer off, wait 10 seconds, turn it on. Wait for it to show ready or connected to Wi-Fi.
  2. Restart the computer. This clears a stuck print queue more often than you would think.
  3. Open Settings, then Bluetooth & devices, then Printers & scanners. Click your printer and choose Open print queue.
  4. In the queue window, click Printer in the menu and make sure "Use Printer Offline" is not checked. Clear any stuck jobs with Cancel All Documents.
  5. Still offline? Remove the printer (Printers & scanners, click it, Remove), then click Add device and let Windows find it again. A Wi-Fi printer is often found faster than a manual add.
  6. If it keeps going offline, the printer probably changed its network address. Printing a network configuration page from the printer menu shows the current address, and your router can reserve that address so it stops changing.

Common questions

Why does my printer go offline every few days?

Most often the router hands the printer a new network address after it sleeps. Reserving the address in the router, or using the manufacturer app to set a fixed address, stops it.

Does reinstalling the driver help?

Sometimes. Remove the printer, restart, then add it again. Download the driver from the printer maker, not from a search ad.

Free human help is at capacity right now. If you want help while you fix this, Ellis, our AI assistant, can help you by phone now. The first 5 minutes are free when you call (928) 272-0355. If you want more time, phone help is $19 one time for up to 30 minutes, used over 14 days. No subscription. Ellis is an AI and can make mistakes.

Call Ellis (928) 272-0355 $19 phone help, up to 30 minutes

Refundable anytime: just ask with a reason at joe@adorellc.pro or text 928-272-0355.

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