If your printer will not print, try these key steps to resolve the issue:
1. **Check power, connections, and paper:** Ensure the printer is turned on, all cables (USB or power cables) are firmly connected without damage, and that paper is properly loaded without jams or tears[1].
2. **Clear printer queue:** Open the printer queue on your computer and cancel all pending or stuck print jobs. Also verify that the printer is not set to “Pause Printing” or “Use Printer Offline” mode in settings[1][4].
3. **Restart devices:** Power off both your printer and computer, wait about 30 seconds, then turn them back on. This simple reboot often fixes communication glitches[1][4].
4. **Update or reinstall printer drivers:** Check for the latest printer driver on the manufacturer’s website and install it. If problems persist, uninstall the printer on your computer and reinstall it fresh[2][4].
5. **Check network or cable connection:** Make sure your printer and computer are on the same Wi-Fi network if wireless, or verify that USB or Ethernet cables are securely connected if wired[1][4][3].
6. **Clear and restart print spooler (Windows):**
– Open Services (search “services” in Windows).
– Find “Print Spooler,” stop the service, then delete all files in the folder at `%WINDIR%system32spoolPRINTERS`.
– Restart the Print Spooler service and set its Startup type to Automatic[3].
7. **Set printer as default:** Ensure your desired printer is selected as the default printer in your computer’s settings to avoid printing to a different device[4].
If after these steps your printer still will not print, there could be hardware issues or deeper software conflicts that may require professional technician support[1][3].
These solutions cover the most common causes of printers not printing and are effective for most Windows setups and common printer brands[1][2][3][4].