Printer Not Printing? Quick Fixes for Every Situation

Printer issues range from infuriating to hair-pulling. Here are the quick fixes that resolve 90% of problems.

Written by Alex Chen

Senior IT Specialist · 10 years experience

HelpByExperts printer troubleshooting guide for fixing common printing problems

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In this article

1. Fix 1: Check the Basics 2. Fix 2: Clear the Print Queue 3. Fix 3: Set as Default Printer 4. Fix 4: Restart the Print Spooler 5. Fix 5: Update or Reinstall the Driver

Fix 1: Check the Basics

Make sure the printer is turned on, has paper and ink. Check for paper jams. Make sure the cable is connected or the printer is on the same WiFi network.

Fix 2: Clear the Print Queue

A stuck print job can block everything. Go to printer settings and cancel all documents.

Fix 3: Set as Default Printer

Your computer might be sending jobs to the wrong printer like Microsoft Print to PDF.

Fix 4: Restart the Print Spooler

On Windows: search for Services, find Print Spooler, right-click and select Restart.

Fix 5: Update or Reinstall the Driver

Visit the printer manufacturer website, search for your model, and download the latest driver.

Pro Tips

✓Wireless printers must be on the same WiFi network as your computer

✓Restarting both printer and computer fixes more issues than you would expect

✓Inkjet printers clog if unused for weeks

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