If your HP printer is connected but not printing, there could be several reasons. Here’s a step-by-step guide to troubleshoot and fix the issue:
### **1. Check Basic Printer Status**
– Ensure the printer is **powered on** and not in **sleep mode**.
– Check for **paper jams** or **low ink/toner**.
– Verify that the **paper tray is loaded correctly**.
### **2. Check the Connection**
– **USB Connection**:
– Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the printer and the computer.
– Try a different USB port or cable if possible.
– **Wi-Fi/Ethernet Connection**:
– Check if the printer is connected to the same network as your computer.
– Restart your router and printer to refresh the connection.
– Print a **Network Configuration Page** from the printer’s settings to confirm connectivity.
### **3. Restart the Printer and Computer**
– Turn off the printer, unplug it for 30 seconds, then power it back on.
– Restart your computer to clear any temporary glitches.
### **4. Check Printer Queue (For Windows & Mac)**
– **Windows**:
– Open **Control Panel > Devices and Printers**.
– Right-click your printer and select **See what’s printing**.
– Clear any stuck print jobs by clicking **Printer > Cancel All Documents**.
– **Mac**:
– Open **System Preferences > Printers & Scanners**.
– Select your printer and click **Open Print Queue**.
– Cancel pending jobs if any.
### **5. Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers**
– **Windows**:
– Go to **Device Manager > Printers**, right-click your HP printer, and select **Update driver**.
– Alternatively, download the latest driver from [HP Support](https://support.hp.com).
– **Mac**:
– Go to **System Preferences > Printers & Scanners**, delete the printer, and re-add it.
– Download the latest driver from HP’s website if needed.
### **6. Set the Correct Default Printer**
– Ensure your HP printer is set as the **default printer** in your computer’s settings.
### **7. Check for Printer Errors**
– Look for **error messages** on the printer’s display (e.g., “Offline,” “Paper Jam,” “Low Ink”).
– If the printer says **”Offline,”** right-click it in **Devices and Printers** (Windows) and select **Use Printer Online**.
### **8. Run the HP Printer Troubleshooter**
– On Windows, go to **Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Printer** and run the troubleshooter.
– On Mac, use **HP Smart** or **HP Utility** to diagnose issues.
### **9. Test with a Different File or App**
– Try printing a **test page** from the printer’s control panel.
– If printing from an app fails, try printing a simple document (e.g., Notepad or TextEdit).
### **10. Reset the Printer**
– If nothing works, perform a **factory reset** (check your printer’s manual for instructions).
### **Still Not Working?**
– Contact **HP Support** ([https://support.hp.com](https://support.hp.com)) for further assistance.
– If the printer is old, consider checking for hardware issues (e.g., printhead problems).
Let me know if you need help with any specific step!