Your HP printer may not be printing due to common issues such as connection problems, being offline or not set as default, print jobs stuck in queue, low or empty ink, paper jams, or outdated/incorrect printer drivers.
Key troubleshooting steps include:
1. **Check printer status and connection**: Ensure the printer is turned on, properly connected to your computer or Wi-Fi, and showing no error lights (like flashing wireless). If using Wi-Fi, confirm the printer and PC are on the same network[1][2][3].
2. **Clear the print queue**: Cancel all pending print jobs to avoid stuck jobs blocking new prints. This can be done in Windows under Devices & Printers by opening your printer queue and canceling jobs[1][3].
3. **Set printer as default**: Make sure your HP printer is set as the default printer in your computer’s settings so print jobs go to the right device[1].
4. **Check ink and paper**: Verify there is ink in the cartridges, paper in the tray, and no paper jams or misloaded paper. Check printer display or status indicators for these[2][4].
5. **Restart printer and computer**: Power off both, unplug the printer briefly, then power on again with the computer to reset connections and software states[3][4][5].
6. **Update or reinstall drivers**: Download and install the latest HP printer driver from HP’s official website to fix driver-related issues[1][3][5].
7. **Use HP diagnostic tools**: HP’s Print and Scan Doctor utility can help identify and fix printer problems automatically[3][5].
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, the problem could be internal hardware faults like clogged printheads or more complex device errors, requiring professional support or HP customer service[4][5].