How to fix a printer that keeps going offline on Windows 11

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to fix a printer that keeps going offline on Windows 11. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

A printer that frequently shows as "offline" in Windows 11 can interrupt your workflow and prevent essential documents from printing. This issue is often caused by connection drops, outdated drivers, or incorrect printer settings. Follow the steps below to restore connectivity and keep your printer online.

Quick Fix Steps

1. Restart your printer and your Windows 11 computer.
2. Check that the printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your PC, or that the USB cable is securely plugged in.
3. Ensure the printer has paper and ink/toner, and that there are no error lights flashing on the device.

Detailed Instructions

Set the printer to "Online" mode

1. Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
2. Select Bluetooth & devices from the left menu.
3. Click Printers & scanners.
4. Select your printer from the list and click Open print queue.
5. In the print queue window, click Printer in the top menu bar.
6. Ensure Use Printer Offline is not checked. If it is, click it to remove the tick.

Set the printer as the default device

1. Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
2. Turn off the toggle for Let Windows manage my default printer.
3. Click on your preferred printer and select Set as default.

Run the Windows Printer Troubleshooter

1. Open Settings and go to System.
2. Click Troubleshoot, then select Other troubleshooters.
3. Find Printer in the list and click Run.
4. Follow the on-screen prompts to detect and fix issues.

Restart the Print Spooler service

1. Press Windows key + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Scroll down and locate Print Spooler.
3. Right-click Print Spooler and select Restart.
4. If Restart is not available, click Start.

Update or reinstall the printer driver

1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
2. Expand the Print queues category.
3. Right-click your printer and select Update driver.
4. Choose Search automatically for drivers.
5. If the issue persists, right-click the printer again and select Uninstall device, then restart your computer to allow Windows to reinstall the driver automatically.

If your printer continues to go offline after following these steps, please contact our support team for further assistance.

You may also find these articles helpful:

• Printer not printing / offline

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