How to Fix a Printer Showing Offline

Printer Shows Offline

When a printer shows "Offline," your computer can't communicate with it.

Quick Fixes to Try

1. Check the Printer

• Is it turned on?
• Are there any error lights?
• Is there a paper jam or error message on the display?

2. Check Cables/Network

For network printers:

• Is the printer connected to the network?
• Are you on the same network?

For USB printers:

• Is the USB cable connected?
• Try a different USB port

3. Restart Everything

• Turn off the printer
• Wait 30 seconds
• Turn the printer back on
• Restart your computer

Windows: Set Printer Online

Step 1: Open Printer Settings

• Click Start > Settings
• Click Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners
• Click on your printer

Step 2: Check Status

• Click Open print queue
• Click Printer in the menu bar
• Uncheck Use Printer Offline if it's checked

Step 3: Clear Print Queue

• In the print queue, click Printer
• Click Cancel All Documents
• Confirm and try printing again

Windows: Restart Print Spooler

The print spooler manages print jobs. Restarting it often fixes issues:

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

Mac: Reset Printing System

• Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners
• Right-click in the printer list
• Select Reset printing system
• Re-add your printer

Warning: This removes all printers. You'll need to add them again.

Check Printer IP Address

Network printers can go offline if their IP address changes:

• Print a configuration page from the printer (usually in printer settings menu)
• Note the IP address
• If it's different from what your computer expects, remove and re-add the printer

When to Contact IT

Contact IT if:

• These steps don't work
• The problem keeps happening
• Multiple people have the same issue
• You see error codes on the printer

Need Help?

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