If your printer will not connect to your computer, there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem. Before attempting any of the solutions below, make sure that your printer is powered on and that all of the cables and cords are connected securely.
1. Check the USB Cable: One of the most common causes of a printer not connecting to a computer is a faulty or disconnected USB cable. Check to make sure that the cable is securely connected to both the printer and the computer. If the cable looks damaged or frayed, try using a different USB cable.
2. Install Printer Drivers: Most printers require special software known as drivers to be installed on a computer before they will work properly. To check if your printer has the proper drivers installed, open the Control Panel on your computer and search for “Printers” in the search bar. If your printer does not appear in this list, you may need to install the appropriate drivers. Visit the manufacturer’s website for instructions for downloading and installing the correct software for your printer model.
3. Reset the Printer and Computer: If installing the driver software does not work, try resetting both the printer and the computer. To reset the printer, unplug the power cable from the back of the device and then plug it back in. For the computer, shut it down completely and wait at least 30 seconds before turning it back on.
4. Update Firmware: If your printer is still not connecting after trying all of the above steps, try updating the firmware. Firmware is the software that runs on the printer itself, and it can become outdated over time. To update the firmware, locate the settings menu on the printer’s control panel and check for any available updates. Follow the on-screen instructions for installing the update.
5. Use a Printer Troubleshooter: Many newer computers come with a built-in Printer Troubleshooter. To access this, type “troubleshoot” in the Windows search bar, and then select “Find and fix problems with devices and printers”. The troubleshooter will automatically detect any issues and help you fix them.
If you have tried all of the above steps, but your printer still will not connect to your computer, it may be time to call a technician. Alternatively, you could take the device to a local printer repair shop to have the issue diagnosed and fixed.