How to fix printer not printing from computer

Printers are an essential part of our daily lives, allowing us to conveniently transfer electronic files into tangible documents. However, encountering issues with your printer can be frustrating, especially when it refuses to print from your computer. There could be several reasons behind this problem, but the good news is that many of them can be easily resolved. In this article, we will guide you through some troubleshooting steps to help you fix a printer that is not printing from your computer.

1. Check the Basics:

First and foremost, ensure that your printer is turned on and connected to your computer properly. Check the power source, cables, and the USB or network connection to make sure everything is secure. Restart both your computer and printer to refresh the connection.

2. Set your Printer as Default:

Sometimes, your computer may not recognize your printer as the default option, which can prevent it from printing. To fix this, go to the Control Panel (or Settings on a Mac) and navigate to “Printers and Devices”. Right-click on your printer and select “Set as Default Printer”. This should prioritize your printer for all print jobs.

3. Update Printer Drivers:

Outdated or incompatible printer drivers can often cause issues with printing. Ensure that you have the latest drivers installed on your computer. Visit the manufacturer’s website or use their software to check for driver updates. Download and install any available updates, following the on-screen instructions.

4. Clear Printer Queue:

If you have multiple print jobs in the queue, it may cause the printer to stop responding. Access the printer queue by double-clicking on the printer icon in the system tray (Windows) or the Dock (Mac). Cancel all pending print jobs, and then try printing again to see if the issue is resolved.

5. Check Paper and Ink Levels:

Low ink or paper levels are common culprits for a printer not printing. Make sure your printer has enough paper loaded in the tray and that there is sufficient ink or toner in the cartridges. If not, replace or refill them accordingly.

6. Run Printer Troubleshooter:

Both Windows and Mac operating systems come with built-in printer troubleshooters. Access them through the Control Panel in Windows or the System Preferences in Mac. Follow the on-screen instructions to diagnose and resolve any printer-related problems.

7. Disable Firewall or Antivirus:

Firewall or antivirus software can sometimes block the communication between your computer and printer, causing printing issues. Temporarily disable such software and try printing again. If the problem is solved, you may need to configure the software settings to allow printer communications.

8. Reinstall Printer Software:

If all the above steps fail, consider reinstalling your printer’s software. Begin by uninstalling the printer from your computer completely. Then, reinstall it using the latest drivers obtained from the manufacturer’s website. Follow the provided instructions carefully to ensure a successful installation.

In conclusion, a printer not printing from a computer can be resolved through a series of troubleshooting steps. Start by checking the basic connections and settings, updating the printer drivers, and clearing the printer queue. Verify ink and paper levels, run the printer troubleshooter, disable firewall/antivirus, and if necessary, reinstall the printer software. By following these steps, you can resolve most common issues and get your printer functioning correctly once again.