Wireless printer connected but not printing

If your wireless printer is connected to your network but not printing, the issue could stem from a variety of sources related to software, hardware, or network problems. Here’s a systematic approach to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the issue:

1. Check Printer Status

  • Ensure it’s turned on and not displaying any errors, such as paper jams or low ink warnings. Resolve any errors before proceeding.

2. Verify the Connection

  • Check the network connection: Make sure the printer is connected to the correct Wi-Fi network. Print a network configuration report from the printer settings to verify its network connection.
  • Signal strength: Poor Wi-Fi signal strength can lead to unreliable printer connections. Move the printer closer to the router or eliminate signal obstructions if possible.

3. Restart Devices

  • Restart the printer, your computer, and the Wi-Fi router. This can resolve temporary connectivity or software glitches.

4. Check Printer Selection

  • Correct printer selection: Ensure you’re selecting the correct printer when sending a print job. It’s common to accidentally send jobs to the wrong printer, especially if you have multiple devices connected.

5. Update Printer Drivers and Software

  • Drivers: Outdated or corrupted printer drivers can cause printing issues. Visit the printer manufacturer’s website to download and install the latest drivers for your model.
  • Software: Ensure that any printer software or utilities are up-to-date.

6. Clear the Print Queue

  • Print queue: A stuck print job in the queue can halt subsequent jobs. Clear the print queue by opening the printer’s window on your computer, selecting the queued print jobs, and canceling them.

7. Check Print Spooler Service (Windows)

  • Restart the Print Spooler service: On Windows, search for “Services” in the Start menu, find “Print Spooler” in the list, right-click it, and select “Restart”. This service is responsible for managing print jobs sent to the printer.

8. Configure Printer IP Address

  • Static IP: Assigning a static IP address to your printer can prevent IP conflicts and ensure a stable connection. This can usually be done through the printer’s control panel or web interface.

9. Disable VPN Connections

  • VPN issues: If you’re using a VPN on your computer, try disabling it. VPNs can change the network settings and make local printers unreachable.

10. Firewall/Antivirus Interference

  • Security software: Sometimes, firewall or antivirus settings can block the communication between your computer and printer. Temporarily disable these programs to see if that resolves the issue, and make necessary adjustments to the settings.

11. Printer Firmware Update

  • Firmware updates: Check for and install any firmware updates from the manufacturer. These updates can resolve known bugs and compatibility issues.

12. Reconfigure Wireless Settings

  • Re-setup the printer: If none of the above steps work, try reconfiguring the wireless settings on your printer. This might involve resetting the printer to its factory settings and setting up the Wi-Fi connection anew.

13. Contact Support

  • Manufacturer support: If the problem persists, contact the printer manufacturer’s customer support for further assistance. They can provide model-specific guidance and troubleshooting.

Troubleshooting a wireless printer that’s connected but not printing involves checking both the hardware and software aspects of the printer, as well as ensuring a stable connection to the network. By systematically going through these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue.