Resolutions to Tackle the HP Printer Not Responding Issue

While using HP printers, you may come across a situation when the printer won’t respond to your commands. Users report HP printer not responding, which mainly occurs because of outdated drivers and a loose connection of the printer to the computer. Some other prominent causes include an empty ink cartridge and incorrect setup and installation of the printer. But there are various possible workarounds to make the device respond to your commands. In this article, you will find about these solutions, which you can then implement and make your printer function.

 

Methods to Fix HP Printer Not Responding

You can use various methods to fix the reasons that are making the printer unresponsive. Perform these troubleshooting measures correctly so you can see the results you desire.

Examine that Your Printer is Set up Properly

The misconfigured printer will not respond to your command. Use these steps to configure it. 

1. Navigate to the ‘Devices and printers’ area in the Control Panel.’
2. Find your printer and right-click it.
3. Next, opt for ‘Printer Properties.’
4. Head to the ‘Ports’ tab.
5. Check that the right port is chosen.
6. Hit ‘Apply’ followed by ‘OK.’

Restart the Spooler Service of Your Computer.

Often, the HP printer is not responding because of the improper working of the print spooler service. To rectify this problem, follow these points. 

1. Open the ‘Run’ box and input ‘Services.msc’ in it. 
2. Go down and find the ‘Print Spooler’ option. 
3. Once you locate it, right-tap it and choose ‘Restart.’
4. Now, carry out a test print and see if your printer is working properly. 

Examine the Security Software on Your Computer.

Many people who complain that ‘my HP printer is not responding’ usually have their security software interfering with the printer. This problem is seen when you use a network or Wi-Fi printer. The best fix is to disable the antivirus and firewall temporarily. 

Often, temporarily disabling the security software is enough to make your printer come back online. But if it still displays the offline status, you should completely uninstall the antivirus software. After that, check if the problem has been resolved. 

 

Reconfigure Printer Setting

When the printer isnot responding HP, try resetting the printer setting. Turn off your printing device and follow these points.

1. After turning off the printer, wait for some time and switch it on. 
2. Check its screen and see if it shows the Not Responding error on your Mac.
3. If it shows, tap the Apple icon.
4. Opt for ‘System Preferences’ in the dropdown.
5. Select ‘Print & Scan’ in the hardware section.
6. You will find various printers being added to the queue.
7. Delete the printer by tapping the ‘-‘ symbol. 
8. Now, tap the ‘+’ icon.
9. Choose your HP printer model in the ‘Add Printer’ window.
10. Hit the ‘Add’ button. That’s it, you have reset the printer setting.

 

Final Words

Use these steps whenever you notice the HP printer not responding. Restarting the spooler service and troubleshooting the setting are some important ways to eliminate the problem. However, if you still see that your HP printer does not respond after implementing them, it's best to connect with a professional HP technical support service.