Complete Guide: Why Does My Printer Say Offline?

Are you encountering printer offline issues? Can’t you tolerate more?

Worry not!!

Once you explore this post, you will be familiar with the major causes to this issue and key troubleshooting steps as well. So, why are you delaying? Just move ahead and dig a little deeper into this post.

Let’s get started!!

What Do You Mean By Printer Offline Issue?

Are you not aware of the printer offline meaning? If not, we’ll help you let you know the literal meaning of the offline issues with your printing device. Simply put, this issue refers to a situation where your printer is not able to communicate with your computer or device. However, it is powered on and connected to a network.

When this issue occurs, your system recognizes that the printer is unavailable. Due to this, you can’t send print jobs to it. There are several factors that cause this issue.

Why Is Your Printer Offline?

Wanna know why is my printer offline? You can be aware of the key factors responsible for this issue, once you have an eye on the common causes given below –

Network Connection Issues:

Your printer may show as offline if there is a disruption in the network connection. It can happen in case the printer is unable to maintain a stable connection to the Wi-Fi or Ethernet.

Outdated or Incompatible Drivers:

An offline status for your printer may appear due to an obsolete or incompatible printer driver. When the drivers are not upgraded, you may have to encounter a communication gap between your printer and the computer device.

“Use Printer Offline” Mode:

Sometimes, your printer may be mistakenly set to “Use Printer Offline” mode in the settings of your computer. It may prevent your printing device from receiving print jobs even when it is connected.

Power or Hardware Issues:

Physical issues such as – power issues, paper jams, or low ink levels can also cause the printer to show offline. Such hardware-related issues are required to be addressed for the printer to function properly.
So, it’s damn sure that by recognizing the issue above-mentioned, you can quickly resolve the “Printer offline error“. As a result, it will become easy for you to bring your device back online.

Key Troubleshooting Steps To Resolve Printer Offline Issue

Wanna curb the printer offline issue forever? Don’t you know how to do it? Worry not!! We’re here to enable you to resolve the issues with your printer. Let’s explain them in detail.

1. Check Printer and Computer Connections:

Wi-Fi Connection:

First of all, you need to make sure that your printer is connected to the appropriate Wi-Fi network. So, cross-check that the Wi-Fi signal is strong. You also need to confirm that the Wi-Fi light on your printer is either on or blinking. All these things rely on the model of your printer.

USB/Ethernet Connection:

On the other hand, if you are using a wired connection, you need to verify that the cables are securely plugged into both the printer & the computer. It will be worth testing the cables by switching to a different port if it is required.

2. Restart Your Devices:

Restart the Printer:

Initially, turn off your printer. Now, wait for around 30 seconds. Later on, turn it back on. It can help you reset any sort of temporary issue that may cause an offline status on your printer.

Restart the Computer:

In the next step, reboot your computer device so that you can refresh the printer drivers. Besides, it will also allow you to reconnect it to the printer as well.

Restart the Router:

In case your printer is connected via Wi-Fi, you have to restart the router. It can help you restore network connections.

3. Update Printer Drivers:

Automatic Update:

In the settings of your computer, you need to navigate to the “Device Manager.” Now, locate your printer> right-click> choose “Update Driver.” It will help you ensure that your printer is up-to-date.

Manual Update:

Now, visit the manufacturer’s website of the printer. Start searching for your printer model and then download the latest driver version.

4. Set Printer as Default:

In your printer’s settings, you need to make sure that your printer is set as the default device. Now, go to “Control Panel” > “Devices and Printers.” Afterward, you have to click on your printer and then choose “Set as default printer.”

5. Check for “Use Printer Offline” Mode:

Sometimes, it happens that your printer is accidentally set to offline mode. To escape such hassle, you need to go to “Devices and Printers” in the control panel. After that, it will be better for you to right-click your printer. In case “Use Printer Offline” is checked, you have to uncheck it.

6. Clear Print Queue:

If there is a long queue of stuck print jobs, it can cause the printer to appear offline. Now, open the print queue by right-clicking on your printer icon. Later on, choose “See what’s printing.” thereafter, clear the queue by canceling all pending jobs.

7. Run the Printer Troubleshooter:

Both Windows and Mac offer built-in troubleshooting tools. In Windows, you need to search for “Troubleshoot” in the settings. Choose “Printer,” and run the troubleshooter. This tool can help you identify as well as fix common printer issues automatically.

8. Disable SNMP on the Printer Port:

In a few certain cases, by disabling SNMP, you can resolve the issue. SNMP refers to – “Simple Network Management Protocol.” Now, go to “Devices and Printers.” Right-click your printer, and choose “Printer Properties.” Now, select the “Ports” tab. Click on “Configure Port.” Later on, uncheck the SNMP option.

9. Check for Hardware Issues:

Make sure that there are no hardware-related issues. These issues may include – paper jams, low ink levels, or open printer doors. Physical issues can also cause the printer to show offline. It will help you get your device back in working condition.

Bottom-line

Ultimately, after going through the information given above, you will be aware of printer offline issues. Apart from that, you can troubleshoot this problem just with a snap of the finger. So, get a sigh of relief as you can initiate using your printing device more conveniently.

FAQs: Why Does My Printer Say Offline

What does it mean when my printer is offline?

When your printing device starts showing as “offline,” it means that the device is not able to communicate with your computer. It can occur due to several issues ranging from network errors to physical connectivity issues.

Why does my printer show as offline even though it’s turned on?

Your printing device may start showing as offline due to several connection issues. These issues may include your device being set to – “Use Printer Offline” mode, and more. By checking these settings, you can easily resolve the issue.

How do I fix my printer when it’s showing as offline?

If your printer is showing as offline, you need to verify the network connection, restart both the printer & computer, upgrade printer drivers, and more. Running the printer troubleshooter, you can also get rid of this issue.

Why does my printer say it’s offline but it’s connected to Wi-Fi?

This issue may take place due to inappropriate IP addresses, network disruptions, outdated drivers, and more. By resetting the network connection of your printer, you can ensure that it is on the correct network.