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My PC shows printer as error, but I can printer from smart phone over wifi.

Steve McDonald 0 Reputation points
2026-04-05T14:08:17.2233333+00:00

I have been away for a week with my PC powered down. My printer, however, was not powered down.

After returning home, the printer shows error on my PC. I am able to print from my smart phone and tablet.

What could be the issue if the printer shows error on my PC?

Windows for home | Other | Devices and drivers
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  1. DaveM121 886.7K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-04-05T14:40:42.43+00:00

    The best option is to completely uninstall the printer, restart (not shut down) your PC, then go to the support page for your printer on the manufacturers website to download and reinstall the version of printer drivers, firmware and associated software they provide for your printer model.

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  2. AI answer

    2026-04-05T14:08:27.7633333+00:00

    If the printer works from phone and tablet but shows an error on the PC, the issue is typically with the Windows connection or configuration, not the printer itself. Common causes and fixes include:

    1. Connection or network mismatch
      • Ensure the PC is on the same Wi‑Fi network as the printer. If there are extenders or multiple SSIDs, the PC might be on a different network.
      • If the printer shows “Printer in error state” on the PC, also check the printer itself for low paper/ink, open cover, or paper jams.
    2. Offline or wrong default printer on the PC
      • In Windows, go to Start > Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners.
      • Select the printer, choose Open queue.
      • On the Printer menu, select Set As Default Printer, and clear Pause Printing and Use Printer Offline if they are checked.
    3. General printer/PC restart
      • Power‑cycle the printer: turn it off, unplug it for 30 seconds, plug it back in, and turn it on again.
      • Restart the PC after the printer is back online.
    4. Cable or wireless connection checks (if using USB or Wi‑Fi)
      • For USB: confirm the cable is firmly connected and try another USB port.
      • For Wi‑Fi: make sure the printer’s wireless option is turned on and run the printer’s wireless connectivity test from its menu.
    5. If the printer shows as offline
      • Follow the offline‑printer troubleshooting: run the Windows printer troubleshooter from the Get Help app (Windows 10) using Run the troubleshooter in Get Help, then repeat the general steps above if needed.

    If these steps do not resolve the error, continue with the remaining steps in the Windows printer troubleshooting guides referenced below.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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