Why Is My Printer Offline? Quick Solutions for Windows & Mac

A printer showing as offline can be frustrating, especially when you need to print important documents. This guide will help you troubleshoot and fix an offline printer on both Windows and Mac.

Why Does a Printer Show Offline?

Several factors can cause a printer to go offline, including:

1. Connection Issues – The printer may not be properly connected to the computer or network.
2. Incorrect Printer Settings – The wrong printer may be set as the default.
3. Outdated or Corrupt Drivers – Printer drivers need updates to function properly.
4. Paper Jams or Low Ink – A jammed printer or low ink may prevent printing.
5. Paused Printer Queue – A stuck print job can cause the printer to go offline.

How to Fix an Offline Printer on Windows

1. Check Printer Connection

• Ensure the printer is turned on and properly connected to your computer or Wi-Fi.
• Restart your printer, computer, and Wi-Fi router.

2. Set the Printer to Online Mode

• Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
• Right-click your printer and select See what’s printing.
• Click Printer and uncheck Use Printer Offline.

3. Restart the Print Spooler Service

• Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
• Find Print Spooler, right-click it, and select Restart.

4. Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers

• Open Device Manager and expand Printers.
• Right-click your printer and select Update driver.
• If updating doesn’t work, uninstall and reinstall the driver from the printer manufacturer’s website.

How to Fix an Offline Printer on Mac

1. Check Printer Connection

• Ensure the printer is powered on and properly connected via USB or Wi-Fi.
• Restart your Mac and printer.

2. Reset the Printing System

• Open System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.
• Right-click the printer list and select Reset Printing System.
• Re-add the printer and test printing.

3. Check Printer Queue and Resume Printing

• Open System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.
• Select your printer and check if it’s paused.
• If paused, click Resume Printing.

4. Reinstall Printer Drivers

• Visit the printer manufacturer’s website and download the latest drivers.
• Install them and restart your Mac.

Final Tips

• Use the built-in troubleshooter in Windows (Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners).
• Keep your printer firmware updated.
• Check for network issues if using a wireless printer.

By following these steps, you should be able to bring your printer back online. If the issue persists, contact your printer manufacturer for further assistance.