Printer Not Printing? Basic Troubleshooting Steps

Printer Not Printing?

Before contacting IT support, try these common troubleshooting steps.

Quick Checks

1. Is the Printer Turned On?

• Check the power light
• Press the power button if needed
• Make sure it is plugged in

2. Is There Paper?

• Open the paper tray
• Add paper if empty
• Make sure paper is loaded correctly

3. Check for Paper Jams

• Open all accessible covers
• Look for stuck paper
• Gently remove any jammed paper
• Close all covers securely

4. Is It Connected?

For networked printers:

• Check the network cable
• Look for a network/WiFi light

For USB printers:

• Check the USB cable is connected
• Try a different USB port

Computer Troubleshooting

Check Printer Status

Windows:

• Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners
• Click on your printer
• Click Open queue
• Check for stuck jobs

Mac:

• Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners
• Select your printer
• Click Open Print Queue
• Look for stuck jobs

Clear the Print Queue

If jobs are stuck:

• Open the print queue
• Select all documents
• Click Cancel or Delete
• Try printing again

Restart Print Spooler (Windows)

• Press Windows + R
• Type services.msc and press Enter
• Find Print Spooler
• Right-click and select Restart

Check Default Printer

Make sure you are printing to the correct printer:

• Open printer settings
• Look for your printer
• Set it as default if needed

Printer-Specific Issues

Low Ink/Toner

• Check ink or toner levels
• Replace if low
• Some printers refuse to print when low

Offline Status

If the printer shows "Offline":

• Right-click the printer
• Uncheck Use Printer Offline if checked
• Try printing again

Driver Issues

If the printer was working but stopped:

• Restart your computer
• If still not working, contact IT for driver reinstall

When to Contact IT

Contact us if:

• You have tried all the above steps
• Error messages appear on the printer display
• The printer needs toner or maintenance
• Multiple people cannot print

Need Help?

For printer support, contact helpdesk@netlumait.com.au or call 1300 521 162.