Skip to main content

13.4.1 Troubleshooting a Printer

Learn the common issues that arise when using printers and how to resolve them.

Basic Troubleshooting

Perform these tasks before going into specifics. Verify that the printer is:

  • plugged in to a power supply
  • powered on
  • plugged into the computer
  • self-test the printer from the printer console
Issue Solution
Unable to Install Printer Verify that the port on the motherboard to which the printer is connected is enabled via BIOS/UEFI and that the user account has permissions to install and use a new printer.
No Connectivity Look at the previous solution, and also check that the correct printer driver is installed and loaded.
Printer Access Denied (lol) Verify that the Windows user account is authorized to access and use the printer.
Driver Issue Verify that the latest version of the printer drive is installed, and make sure that the driver is for the correct make and model of the printer.
Printer Doesn't Print Ensure there is paper in the feed tray and the tray, feed, and rollers are all in their correct positions.
Calibrate the printer.
Check the connection between the workstation and the printer, and ensure that the user account has access to send print jobs to the specific printer being used.
Restart the printer and/or the computer.

#XIII

#Aplus