How to Fix HP Printer Offline Error? The Best Methods

As usual, you powered on your computer and HP printer to get started on your routine tasks. But you noticed that your printer is showing an offline status.

The “HP printer is offline” error is very common among users. It can be resolved when you have the right knowledge. 

We have mentioned some great troubleshooting methods to get your printer back online. Along with that, we have talked about the causes of the issue. Let’s talk about the causes before we bump into how to fix HP printer offline error. 

Reasons for the HP Printer is Showing Offline Status

You may wonder, ‘Why is my printer showing offline HP?’ There may be loads of reasons behind this glitch. Here are some of the obvious reasons behind- why does my HP printer say it's offline: 

Connection Problems

If the USB cable does not fit properly or is damaged, it can show an offline status. The printer may also not be on the same network as your computer, or there may be a weak or poor signal. 

Incorrect Settings 

It may be possible that the printer is set to “Use Printer Offline” mode in the system settings. Also, if the wrong printer is chosen as the default printer, your PC might not be able to communicate with the correct device.

Printer and Device Issues 

The HP printer may appear offline if it is off or in sleep mode. There can also be an interference of security software or firmware that often blocks communication. Low ink or improper installation of the cartridge may also raise the question of “why does my HP printer keep saying offline?” 

Why is My HP Printer Offline But Connected to WiFi? 

The HP Printer appears offline, but it is connected to Wi-Fi. Is that happening to you? This is another common issue you might face. Why does my computer say my HP printer is offline even when connected to WiFi? You may want to know that. This could be because: 

• The printer and PC are connected to different networks
• Poor Wi-Fi signal or a temporary network glitch 
• The printer is set to “Use Printer Offline” mode
• Outdated printer drivers
• The printer’s IP address has changed after a router restart

How to Fix HP Printer Offline? Basic Troubleshooting (Windows)

Try any of these basic troubleshooting methods to learn how do I get my HP printer online from offline on your Windows computer:  

Method 1: Changing the Printer Status to Default 

If you are using a Windows computer, follow these steps to set your HP printer as the default device on your PC:

Step 1: On your computer, press the Windows Start button, and search for Printers & Scanners. 

Step 2: Click it, then uncheck the box next to “Let Windows manage my default printer.”

Step 3: Next you need to select your printer model from the list and then click on “Manage.”

Step 4: Select the printer that is idle or online among the names listed.

Step 5: Click on “Set as default.” You can find this option under the Manage your device section.

Step 6: Once this is done, test your printer and see if it is working or not.

That’s what to do when the HP printer says offline. If the issue doesn’t resolve, you can try another method, which is: 

Method 2: Connecting the PC to a TCP/ IP Port

Here is how you can connect your PC to a TCP or IP port and turn HP printer offline to online: 

Step 1: On your Windows PC, click on the Windows Start button. 

Step 2: Search “Printers & Scanners” in the search field. 

Step 3: Open the Printers & Scanners folder, then click your HP printer name. 

Step 4: Click on the “Manage” option. 

Step 5: Click on “Printer Properties” at the top. 

Step 6: Select the Ports tab and click the “Add Port” option. 

Step 7: Choose “Standard TCP/IP Port,” then tap on New Port.

Step 8: Enter the printer’s IP address in the box, then click on “Next.”

Step 9: Now, choose the new Standard TCP/IP Port on the screen.

Step 10: Click on OK.

Step 11: Do a print test and see if the printer is back online or not.  

Deleting or canceling the stuck print jobs is another way to resolve the printer offline issue. Here are the steps to do this. 

Method 3: Cancel All Print Jobs 

Step 1: On your Windows PC, double-click on the printer icon at the bottom right of the taskbar. 

Step 2: A window will pop up, and you need to right-click on the print job you wish to cancel.

Step 3: After that, click on “Cancel.”

Step 4: A small pop-up window will show up. Click on “Yes.” This will confirm your cancellation. 

HP Printer is Offline: How Do I Get it Online on Mac? 

Why HP printer showing offline on my Mac computer? It could be because of a corrupted or outdated printer driver. Here’s what you can do to get the printer back online: 
 

Step 1: On your Mac, click on the Apple icon at the top left of the screen. 

Step 2: Select “System Preferences.”

Step 3: Click on the Software Update option.

Step 4: Check the printer’s list for updates.

Step 5: If an update is available for the printer drivers, click “Update to install drivers.” 

When you are done with the above, just restart your Mac and your HP printer. See if both devices are connected to the same network, and do a print test. 

By updating the drivers, you not only get the offline issue resolved, but also enhance the printer’s performance. 

In Closure 

That’s how to switch HP printer from offline to online. Basic troubleshooting can resolve the issue, but if that does not work, you can try other methods we have explained. On Windows computers, methods like setting the printer status to Default or deleting all print jobs may work. 

If you are using a Mac device, just go to System Preferences, click on Software Update, and update to the latest printer drivers.