Before you start
- Power-cycle the printer: turn it off, unplug for about 30 seconds, then reconnect it.
- For wireless printers, make sure the PC and printer are on the same network.
Run the Printer troubleshooter
Open the Get Help app and run the Printer troubleshooter.
Remove and add the printer again
Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners. Select the printer and remove it if needed, then use Add device to reinstall it.
Install the latest manufacturer driver
Use the printer manufacturer’s support page for the current Windows 11 driver/software, especially for multifunction devices.
Clear a stuck print spooler
Open Services, stop Print Spooler, then open %WINDIR%\System32\spool\PRINTERS and delete the files inside. Return to Services, start Print Spooler, and set Startup type to Automatic.
If the printer still shows Offline
Open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners, select the printer, and inspect the print queue/status. Also confirm the printer’s own display has no paper, ink/toner, jam or connectivity error.
Microsoft source
This guide is independently written and condensed from current Microsoft Support guidance. If your Windows build differs or the problem persists, use the official source for the full decision tree.
Open Microsoft Support ↗