There are a number of potential causes for an inability to print from a Windows computer. Below, there are steps that should be taken to identify and resolve the issue.
1. Check the printer connection
The first step is to check the physical connection between the computer and the printer. Ensure that all cables are firmly connected, as well as that the power supply is plugged in. If the printer is connected via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, ensure that the printer is within range of the computer and that both devices are properly paired.
2. Restart the printer
If the connection appears to be fine, try restarting the printer. To do this, unplug the power cord from the wall socket and wait a few minutes before plugging it back in. After powering on the printer, attempt to print again.
3. Check that the correct printer is selected
In some cases, an incorrect printer may be selected in the print settings. To ensure an appropriate printer is chosen, open the application used for printing and select the ‘Print’ option. Make sure the correct printer is chosen from the dropdown menu and click on ‘OK’. If this fails to resolve the issue, go to the ‘Devices and Printers’ section of the Control Panel and ensure that the correct printer is selected.
4. Check for printer driver updates
If the printer was recently installed, or if the computer has recently been updated, then it is possible that an outdated printer driver is causing the problem. To update the printer driver, open the ‘Device Manager’ and find the printer in the list. Right-click on the printer and select ‘Update Driver Software’. Choose ‘Search automatically for updated driver software’. Once the update is complete, check if you are able to print.
5. Run the Printer Troubleshooter
Windows includes a built-in Printer Troubleshooter to help diagnose and resolve printing problems. To use it, open the ‘Control Panel’, go to ‘Troubleshooting’, and select ‘View all’. Click on the ‘Printer’ option and follow the instructions. If this fails to resolve the issue, go to the manufacturer’s website and search for troubleshooting resources.
6. Check the printer queue
It is also possible that a document is stuck in the print queue. Open the ‘Devices and Printers’ section of the ‘Control Panel’ and right-click on the printer icon. Select ‘See What’s Printing’ and check if any documents are listed. If so, select the document and click on ‘Cancel’ to remove it from the queue. Once this is done, restart the printer and attempt to print the document again.
7. Reinstall the printer
If none of the above steps has solved the issue, then it may be necessary to reinstall the printer. To do this, open the ‘Control Panel’, go to ‘Hardware and Sound’, and select ‘Devices and Printers’. Find the printer in the list and right-click on it. Select ‘Remove Device’ and follow the instructions to uninstall the printer. Restart the computer and reinstall the printer following the manufacturer’s instructions.
If none of the above steps resolved the issue, contact the printer manufacturer’s support team or take the printer to a repair center.