Printer Won’t Print? Here are Some Ways to Fix Printer Issues

Printer issues are one of the most frustrating computer problems out there. Unfortunately, these issues are also very common. From jammed paper and empty ink cartridges to corrupted drivers and software flaws, there myriads of issues that could cause your printer not to print. Here are a few things you can try to resolve the issue:

1. Check Your Printer

Start with the basics:

1. Check your printer for any obvious issues, such as jammed paper in the paper feed.
2. Is there any paper in the paper tray?
3. Is your ink/toner cartridge empty?
4. Does your printer screen display any error messages? 
5. Check your printer's cables and make sure that they are securely connected to both the printer and your computer.
6. If you use a network printer, also make sure that the printer is connected to your Wi-Fi or the router.

2. Set Default Printing Device

You should check if your printer is set as the default device even if you have only one installed printer because Windows automatically lists "Microsoft Print to PDF" and "Microsoft XPS Document Writer" as printer devices.

1. Go to the Start Menu, type "control panel" and select the Control Panel app.
2.  In the Control Panel window, click on Hardware and Sound.
3.  In the Hardware and Sound window, click on Devices and Printers.
4.  In the Devices and Printers window, right-click on your printer and select "Set as default printer" from the context menu.

3. Update or Reinstall your Printer Driver

The printer driver is a piece of software that allows Windows to control your printer. Outdated drivers could cause your OS to run into errors, preventing you from using your computer. A simple driver update could get rid of the issue quickly.

1. Go to the Start Menu and type "device manager" and select the Device Manager app.
2. In the Device Manager window, click on the horizontal arrow in front of "Print queues."
3.  Right-click on your printer and select "Update driver" from the context menu.
4. You will be offered a choice between manual and automatic driver update. While the automatic option updates the driver without human interference, it could miss some updates. Therefore, if the automatic option doesn't detect an update for your device, go to the device manufacturer's website and make sure you have the latest driver for your printer.
5. Install all applicable drivers.

Corrupted or missing files could cause the driver to malfunction. The solution to this problem is a quick driver reinstallation.

1. Go to the Start Menu and type "device manager" and select the Device Manager app.
2. In the Device Manager window, click on the horizontal arrow in front of "Print queues."
3.  Right-click on your printer and select Uninstall device. This operation will wipe the printer driver completely.
4. Go to the Start Menu, type "printers and scanners" and select the Printer & Scanners system settings.
5. In the Settings window, under Printer & scanners, check if your printer is still listed as a diver, select it and click the "remove device" button.
6. Under Add printer and scanners, select "Add a printer or scanner."
7. Wait for Windows to scan your network for connected devices.
8. Once Windows detects the printer, click on your printer, and select "Add device."