A printer offline error means your computer cannot reach the printer, even though it looks switched on. These steps fix most cases.
Last updated: October 30, 2026.
Quick checks
- Confirm the printer is on and shows no error.
- Check that the printer’s WiFi light is steady.
- Make sure your computer is on the same network.
Restart everything
Turn off the printer, computer and router, wait a minute, then turn them back on in that order: router, printer, computer.
Clear the print queue
Cancel stuck jobs from the print queue, then try a test page.
On Windows
Open Printers and Scanners, select the printer, open the print queue and make sure Use Printer Offline is not checked. Set the printer as default. If it still fails, remove the printer and add it again, then update the driver.
On Mac
Open Printers and Scanners, remove the printer and add it again.
Prevent it
Give the printer a fixed address in your router, keep it in range of the router and keep its firmware updated. If it keeps dropping, see how to connect a printer to WiFi or consider one of our best wireless printers.
Detailed Steps on Windows
Open Settings, then Bluetooth and devices, then Printers and scanners, and select the printer. Open the print queue, click Printer, and make sure Use Printer Offline is not ticked. Clear any stuck jobs. Set the printer as default. If it is still offline, remove the printer and add it again, which also refreshes the driver.
Detailed Steps on Mac
Open System Settings, then Printers and Scanners. Select the printer and remove it, then click Add Printer and choose it again. If it still fails, restart the printer and the Mac.
Router and Address Problems
A printer’s network address can change when the router restarts, which breaks the connection your computer saved. Many routers let you reserve a fixed address for the printer. Check your router’s settings for DHCP reservation or a static address.
Reinstall the Driver
If the problem returns, uninstall the printer and its software, restart, then install the latest driver from the manufacturer’s website.
When the Printer Is the Problem
If a printer keeps dropping off the network even after these steps, the Wi-Fi module may be weak. Try a wired Ethernet connection or a printer with better wireless. See best wireless printers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my printer say offline when it is on?
Usually a network change, a sleeping printer or a stuck queue.
Will reinstalling the printer fix it?
Often yes, especially after a router change.
Can a router change cause it?
Yes. A new router or password means the printer must reconnect.
Bottom Line
Restart devices, clear the queue, check the offline setting and re-add the printer if needed.
