Troubleshooting Guide: When Your Wireless Printer Stops Working

Introduction

Dealing with a non-functional printer can be frustrating, especially when you’re in the middle of an important task. Fear not! In this guide, we’ll explore how to diagnose and resolve common issues related to wireless printers.

Understanding the Problem

 • Don’t Reprint Immediately

• When your printer fails to print, resist the urge to reprint your document.

• Windows queues print jobs, so reprinting may result in multiple copies once the printer starts working again.

 • Test the Printer Itself.  Make a Copy:

• If your printer is multifunctional, try making a copy directly from the printer.

• If successful, it indicates that the printer hardware is functioning properly.

• If making a copy fails, there might be an issue with the printer unit itself, and professional servicing may be required.

  •  Check Wireless Connection:

• Verify whether your printer is connected to the wireless network.

• Most printers have an LED indicator that shows their network status.

• If the printer has lost connection to the network, restart both the printer and your router.

• Often, this simple step resolves connectivity issues.

 •  Restart Your Computer:

• Assuming the printer is still unresponsive, try restarting your computer.

• Sometimes, a reboot can re-establish communication between the computer and the printer.

 •  Remove and Re-Add the Printer in Windows:

• Go to Settings on your computer.

• Navigate to Devices > Printers & scanners.

• Locate your printer and remove it.

• Add the printer back as a new device.

• Windows may have been looking for it at a specific IP address, which could have changed after a printer or router restart.

Useful Tips for Printer Setup

  •  Initial Printer Setup:

• If you’re setting up a printer for the first time or re-installing it, consider the following:

  • Ethernet Connection:  If your printer features an ethernet port, consider connecting it directly to your router using an ethernet cable. This configuration allows you to continue wireless printing while preventing any potential loss of the wireless connection 

  • Static IP Assignment: Assign a static IP address to the printer using your router’s DHCP server. This ensures that the printer always uses the same IP address.

Remember, if you need further assistance, don’t hesitate to give us a call at (818) 347-1100. We’re here to help you get your printer back on track! 🖨️🔍