How do you troubleshoot a printer that won't print?

1 Check the basics

Before you dive into more advanced troubleshooting, make sure you have checked the basic aspects of your printer. For example, verify that the printer is turned on, plugged in, and has enough paper and ink. Also, check the printer status on your computer or device and see if there are any error messages or warnings. If you see any, follow the instructions to resolve them. Sometimes, a simple restart of the printer or the computer can clear up any glitches or conflicts.

2 Test the connection

Another common reason why a printer won't print is a faulty or loose connection. Depending on how your printer is connected to your computer or device, you may need to check different cables or settings. If you are using a USB cable, make sure it is firmly inserted in both ends and try a different port if possible. If you are using a wireless or network printer, make sure your Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection is working and that your printer is on the same network as your computer or device. You can also try to reconnect or reconfigure your printer using the settings menu on your computer or device.

3 Update the drivers

Drivers are software programs that allow your computer or device to communicate with your printer. If your drivers are outdated, corrupted, or incompatible, your printer may not function properly. To update your drivers, you can either use the installation CD that came with your printer, download the latest version from the manufacturer's website, or use the Windows Update feature if you have a Windows PC. Once you have updated your drivers, restart your computer or device and try to print again.

4 Run the troubleshooter

If none of the above steps work, you can try to run the built-in troubleshooter that comes with your operating system. The troubleshooter can scan your printer and detect any problems or errors that may prevent it from printing. To run the troubleshooter, you can either access it from the printer settings menu on your computer or device, or use the search function to find it. Follow the prompts and instructions to fix any issues that the troubleshooter finds.

5 Contact the support

If all else fails, you may need to contact the support team of your printer manufacturer or service provider. They may be able to offer you more specific guidance or solutions based on your printer model and situation. You can usually find their contact information on their website, on the printer manual, or on the printer itself. Be prepared to provide them with some details about your printer, such as the serial number, the error codes, and the steps you have taken to troubleshoot it.