🖨️ Printer Not Printing or Scanning? Here’s How to Fix It

29 Oct

Written By m byrne

When your printer refuses to print or scan, it can throw off your entire workday. Whether you’re dealing with a home office setup or a business network printer, these problems are usually caused by a few common issues—and most can be fixed quickly with the right approach.

⚙️ Common Reasons Your Printer Isn’t Working

1. Connection Problems

The printer may not be connected properly to Wi-Fi or USB.
A weak network signal can also cause scanning failures.

Quick Fix:
Restart your printer, reconnect to Wi-Fi, or plug the USB cable into another port. For wireless printers, ensure both your computer and printer are on the same network.

2. Driver Issues

Outdated or missing printer drivers can stop printing or scanning functions from working.

Quick Fix:
Go to the manufacturer’s website (HP, Canon, Epson, Brother, etc.) and download the latest drivers for your printer model.

3. Paper or Ink Problems

Empty ink cartridges or a paper jam can halt printing.
If scanning fails, check that the scanner lid closes properly.

Quick Fix:
Refill ink or toner, remove jammed paper, and clean the scanner glass.

4. Print Queue Errors

Sometimes, documents get “stuck” in the print queue, preventing new jobs from running.

Quick Fix:

On Windows: Open Devices and Printers → Printer → See what’s printing → Cancel all documents.
On Mac: Go to System Preferences → Printers & Scanners → Open Print Queue → Cancel.

5. Firewall or Security Settings

Security software can sometimes block communication between your computer and the printer.

Quick Fix:
Temporarily disable your firewall or antivirus and test the connection again.

🧠 Pro Tip: Keep It Maintained

Regular cleaning, firmware updates, and network checks prevent most printer issues before they start.

👨‍🔧 How Gary’s Computer Repair Service Can Help

If your printer still won’t print or scan after basic troubleshooting, our technicians can:

Diagnose software or hardware issues.
Repair or replace faulty components.
Set up wireless printing and scanning correctly.
Optimize your home or office printer network.

📞 Contact Gary’s Computer Repair Service today for fast, professional printer support in Dublin and nationwide.

m byrne