When you try to print a document, the last thing you want is for your printer to stop working and display an error message. One common error message is "printer in error state." This message can be frustrating and confusing, but it doesn't have to be. In this article, we will go over some simple steps you can take to fix this issue and get your printer up and running again.
Step 1: Check Your Printer Connections
The first thing you should do when your printer is in an error state is to check all of the connections. Make sure that the printer is properly plugged into the power outlet and that the USB cable is securely connected to both the printer and your computer. If you are using a wireless printer, ensure that your computer is connected to the same network as the printer.
Step 2: Restart Your Printer and Computer
If checking the connections doesn't work, try turning off your printer and computer and then turning them back on. This can sometimes fix the error state issue, as it resets the printer and computer.
Step 3: Update Printer Drivers
If your printer is still in an error state, it might be due to outdated or corrupted printer drivers. You need to google your printer manufacturer's website to download the drivers for your printer. Install the drivers and try printing again.
Step 4: Clear Print Spooler
The print spooler is a program that manages all print jobs on your computer. Sometimes, an error in the print spooler can cause the printer to be in an error state. To clear the print spooler, follow these steps:
Press the Windows key + R to open the Run box.
Type "services.msc" and hit Enter.
Scroll down to "Print Spooler" and right-click it.
Click "Stop" to stop the print spooler.
Use Windows Explorer to navigate to C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS.
Delete all files in the PRINTERS folder.
Go back to the Services window and right-click "Print Spooler."
Click "Start" to restart the print spooler.
Step 5: Run Printer Troubleshooter
If none of the above steps work, try running the printer troubleshooter. This tool can diagnose and fix common printer issues. To run the printer troubleshooter, follow these steps:
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
Scroll down to "Find and fix other problems" and click on "Printer."
Click on "Run the troubleshooter" and follow the on-screen instructions.
Step 6: Reinstall Printer
If all else fails, you can try uninstalling and then reinstalling the printer. To do this, follow these steps:
Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
Right-click on the printer that is in error state and click "Remove device."
Go to the printer manufacturer's website and download the latest drivers for your printer.
Install the drivers and follow the on-screen instructions to set up the printer.
In conclusion, when your printer is in an error state, it can be frustrating, but there are several steps you can take to fix the issue. Start by checking your connections and restarting your printer and computer. If those steps don't work, update your printer drivers, clear the print spooler, run the printer troubleshooter, or reinstall the printer. By following these steps, you should be able to get your printer up and running again in no time.
