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Printers
My printer is connected but will not print. What should I check?
A connected printer can still refuse to print because the computer is sending the job to the wrong queue, the printer needs attention, or one stuck job is blocking everything behind it.
The short answer
Check the printer screen first, then clear the print queue, confirm the right printer is selected, and send a one-page test instead of the whole document.
Now try it on your device
Choose your path
Pick the device or situation that matches the screen in front of you.
Steps for Windows
- 1Open Settings, Bluetooth & devices, then Printers & scanners.
- 2Choose the printer and open the print queue.
- 3Cancel old jobs, then send a new one-page test.
- 4If nothing prints, set the working printer as default and restart the computer.
One safety note
Do not keep pressing Print. That can stack up the same job many times.
Before you change settings
1Look at the printer screen for paper, ink, door, or jam messages.
2Print one short test page instead of a large document.
3If you see two versions of the printer, try the one that does not say old, copy, or offline.
What to know first
What this usually means
- The job is paused in the print queue.
- The wrong printer is selected.
- The document is too large or stuck.
- The printer needs paper, ink, toner, or a door closed.
Do not do this yet
- Do not keep pressing Print. That can stack up the same job many times.
- Do not uninstall the printer until the queue and printer screen are checked.
- Do not search for a phone number before checking the printer brand's official site.
Copy this to Emily
You do not need perfect technical words. Send the plain version and a screenshot if you have one.
My printer is connected but will not print. The printer says [message], and my computer is [Windows/Mac]. What does that mean?