Problem Hub
Last updated:

How to Fix PRINTER Not Responding

Device: printer Code: not responding Read time: ~1 min

Share this guide or save it for later.

Meaning

This guide covers printer issue "not responding" with a staged diagnostic path and safe recovery steps. Printer failures are usually caused by queue state, connectivity (USB/Wi‑Fi), driver mismatch, or firmware state drift. Error codes can vary by model, so treat the steps below as a safe baseline and cross-check the exact code meaning in your printer manual if the issue persists.

Common Causes

  • Temporary state mismatch after partial updates.
  • Conflicting background service or cached artifacts.
  • Network, account sync, or permission constraints.

Common Scenarios

  • Issue appears after an update or configuration change.
  • Failure repeats after restart when background services load.
  • Problem triggers only under specific network or permission conditions.
  • The issue appears right after a system update while applying package changes for not responding.
  • The error is triggered only for administrator actions and service startup flow on printer.
  • The failure repeats after reboot because dependency files are still locked by another process.

Quick Fix

Quick path for not responding: - Power cycle the printer (off 30 seconds), then power it on and retry. - Check connection: USB cable seated or Wi‑Fi connected to the correct network. - Clear the print queue and retry one test page. - Set the printer as Default and ensure it is not paused/offline. - Restart the Print Spooler service (Windows) if jobs are stuck.

Advanced Fix

If it persists: - If the error indicates hardware (fuser/paper path), inspect for jams and run vendor diagnostics. - Reset network settings on the printer and reconnect to Wi‑Fi. - Try printing via a different interface (USB vs Wi‑Fi) to isolate connectivity. - Update printer firmware if the error repeats after reboot. - Remove and re-add the printer, then reinstall the latest driver package.

FAQ

What is the fastest fix for PRINTER not responding?

Start with quick steps first, then apply advanced recovery only if the issue reproduces after restart.

What is the most common cause?

Most cases are caused by state drift after updates, cached artifacts, or connectivity and permission conflicts.

Should I reinstall?

Only as a last resort. Validate the quick and advanced steps and confirm the root cause before reinstalling.

How do I confirm it is fixed?

Repeat the exact failing workflow twice after applying a fix and monitor whether the symptom returns after restart.

What should I try next if it keeps happening?

Use related links from the same cluster to compare neighboring signatures and isolate the root condition chain.

Can I ignore not responding on printer?

No. Ignoring not responding can block updates or degrade system stability. Apply the quick fix first, then advanced steps if needed.

User Reports

  • [MEDIUM] Resolved after clearing cached artifacts and restarting.
  • [MEDIUM] Stopped happening after disabling a conflicting background app/agent.
  • [MEDIUM] printer user restored normal updates after running DISM and restart sequence.
  • [HIGH] Issue reproduced during install pipeline, then fixed after permissions reset for system folders.
  • [LOW] Error cleared after disabling conflicting third-party service and re-running setup.

Common Fixes

Newly Reported Errors

Recent Trending

Recently Updated

Most Searched (Cluster)

Was This Helpful?

Your feedback helps us prioritize improvements.

Next Troubleshooting Steps

If the issue persists, continue with the most relevant adjacent guides below.

  1. How to Fix PRINTER Brother Printer Replace Toner
  2. How to Fix PRINTER Brother Printer Drum Error
  3. How to Fix PRINTER Brother Printer Not Found
  4. How to Fix PRINTER Epson Error 0x69
  5. How to Fix PRINTER Epson Error 0x9a
  6. How to Fix PRINTER Epson Printer Not Printing
  7. How to Fix PRINTER Canon Error 1403
  8. How to Fix PRINTER Canon Error 1401