Having a printer that does not work properly can be frustrating. One of the most common issues that PC users face when it comes to printing is the printer being offline. There is no need to worry if your printer is not working because in this blog we will go through the step-by-step guide on how to make a printer online in Windows 10.
Video Tutorial:
Requirements
To make a printer online in Windows 10, there are certain requirements you need to meet:
1. Make sure your computer is running Windows 10 and is connected to the internet.
2. Make sure your printer is turned on and connected to your computer.
3. Make sure there are no paper jams or any other physical issues with your printer.
What should be paid attention to?
There are several things to keep in mind before you start fixing your printer:
1. Make sure the printer is plugged in and powered on.
2. Check the paper tray to ensure that it is not empty or jammed.
3. Check the ink cartridges and make sure they are not empty or low.
4. Make sure the printer is connected to your computer with a USB cable or over your network.
Method 1: Check Printer Connectivity
Before making any changes, it is important to check if your printer is connected to your computer. Follow the steps below to check your printer connectivity:
1. Click the Windows icon on your desktop.
2. Type "Devices and Printers" in the search box and press enter.
3. Find your printer and right-click on it.
4. Select "See what’s printing" option.
5. Click on "Printer" on the top of the window and ensure that "Use Printer Offline" option is unchecked.
6. If "Use Printer Online" option is not enabled, right-click the printer and select "Set as Default Printer".
7. Click on "Printer" and select "Cancel All Documents" option.
Method 2: Restart Print Spooler Service
Restarting the print spooler service can fix printer connectivity issues. Here are the steps:
1. Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard.
2. Type "services.msc" and press enter.
3. Scroll down to find and select "Print Spooler" service.
4. Right-click on it and then click "Restart".
5. After the service restarts, close the window and try to print again.
Method 3: Update Printer Driver
Outdated printer drivers can be the cause of your printer issues. Follow the steps below to update your printer driver:
1. Press the Windows key + X on your keyboard.
2. Click on "Device Manager" in the menu that appears.
3. Expand the "Printers" category.
4. Right-click on your printer and select "Update driver".
5. Select "Search automatically for updated driver software".
6. Restart your computer and try to print again.
Method 4: Reinstall Printer
If none of the above methods work, you can try reinstalling your printer:
1. Click the Windows icon on your desktop.
2. Type "Devices and Printers" in the search box and press enter.
3. Find your printer and right-click on it.
4. Click "Remove device" and confirm.
5. Disconnect your printer from your PC.
6. Restart your computer.
7. Reconnect your printer to your computer.
8. The correct driver will install automatically once your PC detects the printer.
Why can’t I make my printer online?
There are several reasons why you may not be able to make your printer online. Here are a few common ones:
1. Your printer is not connected to the computer properly.
2. Your printer driver is outdated.
3. The print spooler service is not running.
4. The printer is not set as the default printer.
Suggestions
To avoid facing such issues in the future, you can follow these suggestions:
1. Regularly update your printer drivers.
2. Keep your printer clean and maintained.
3. Always use genuine ink cartridges.
FAQs
Q. Why is my printer not printing even when it is online?
A. There could be several reasons behind this issue. Check if the printer is connected properly, if the printer driver is up-to-date, and if there is enough ink and paper.
Q. Can I make my printer online if it is not connected to the internet?
A. Yes, you can make your printer online even if it is not connected to the internet. However, you must ensure that it is properly connected to your computer.
Q. What should I do if my printer is still offline after trying all the methods mentioned in this blog?
A. If none of the above methods work, you can try resetting your printer’s network settings or consult with a professional technician.
Q. How often should I update my printer drivers?
A. It is recommended to update your printer drivers at least once a year. However, if you face any issues with your printer, you should check for updates immediately.
Q. Can I use third-party ink cartridges with my printer?
A. While the use of third-party ink cartridges may seem like a more affordable option, it is not recommended. Third-party cartridges can cause damage to your printer and void your warranty. It is always best to use genuine ink cartridges recommended by the printer manufacturer.
Conclusion
Having your printer offline is frustrating, but hopefully, this guide has helped you understand how to make a printer online in Windows 10. Always remember to check your printer’s connectivity, update your printer drivers, restart the print spooler service, and reinstall your printer if necessary. By following these steps and suggestions, you can avoid such issues in the future and ensure smooth printing.
