The **”HP printer status unknown”** error typically means that the HP Smart app on your computer cannot communicate properly with your printer, causing the printer to appear offline or inaccessible despite being physically connected and powered on[1][2].
### Common Causes
– Firmware or driver issues
– Antivirus or firewall restrictions
– Printer connectivity problems (wired or wireless)
– Outdated HP Smart app or print drivers
– Corrupted printer driver installation
### How to Fix HP Printer Status Unknown
1. **Restart your Devices**
Turn off your printer, unplug its power cable, wait about 30 seconds, and then plug it back in and turn it on. Also, restart your computer to refresh the connection[2].
2. **Use HP Diagnostic Tools**
– Run the **HP Print and Scan Doctor** tool, which automatically diagnoses and fixes many printer problems[2][4].
– Alternatively, use the **HP Support Assistant** app if available on your system.
3. **Update Printer Firmware**
Visit HP’s official website, locate your printer model, and check for the latest firmware version under the Firmware section. Download and install it by following on-screen instructions[1].
4. **Reset or Repair the HP Smart App**
Sometimes the issue is with HP Smart itself. In Windows settings, go to **Apps > Installed Apps**, find **HP Smart**, then use the **Repair** or **Reset** options[1].
5. **Reinstall Printer Drivers**
Perform a full uninstall and reinstall of the printer drivers:
– Uninstall the HP printer software via **Programs and Features**.
– Remove the printer device from **Devices and Printers**.
– Delete printer drivers from the print server properties (run `printui.exe /s` > Drivers tab)[3][4].
– Reinstall the latest drivers downloaded from HP’s driver download page.
6. **Check Network or USB Connectivity**
For wireless printers, ensure both printer and PC are on the same Wi-Fi network. For USB connections, ensure cables are securely connected and try different ports if needed[2][3].
7. **Verify Printer Compatibility with HP Smart App**
Older wireless printers (pre-2009) may not be supported by the HP Smart app. Check HP’s official compatibility list to confirm[2].
If after trying these solutions your printer still shows an “Unknown Status,” contacting HP Support or visiting an authorized service center is recommended[2].
These steps reflect expert guidance for resolving printer communication issues that result in status unknown errors within the HP Smart app environment[1][2][3][4].