Likely fix
Fix: Windows says your printer is offline
Windows usually shows a printer as offline when it is using an old connection, the printer changed WiFi networks, or offline mode is enabled.
Quick answer
Open the Windows printer queue, turn off Use Printer Offline if it is enabled, then restart the printer and router. If it still shows offline, remove and re-add the printer.
Important warning
If the printer recently changed WiFi networks, Windows may still be pointing to the old printer address.
Try this
- 1 Open Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners.
- 2 Select the printer and open the print queue.
- 3 Turn off Use Printer Offline if it is enabled.
- 4 Cancel any stuck print jobs.
- 5 Restart the printer and your router.
- 6 Make sure the printer and computer are on the same WiFi network.
- 7 If it still says offline, remove the printer and add it again.
Common causes
Use Printer Offline is enabled in Windows.
The printer is asleep, paused, or disconnected from WiFi.
Windows is using an old printer connection.
The router gave the printer a new network address.
A stuck print job is blocking the queue.
What to check next
- Check whether other devices can print to the same printer.
- Check whether the printer screen shows a WiFi symbol or network error.
- Check whether the printer is paused or set to offline in the Windows queue.
- Check whether VPN software is connected on the computer.
This might need a cable or adapter
If this fix points to a cable issue, check the related cable guide before buying the wrong one.
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