Why isn't my computer connecting to my wireless printer?
There are certain things that can be quite frustrating when it comes to printing a document. One such annoying issue is that your computer simply cannot connect to the wireless printer. The problem could be with the printer or the computer (you'll never know). Despite the simple steps to fix the issue, the problem might persist and leave your printer off the grid for way too long.
Ideally, wireless printing allows an easy transfer of documents from the device to the printer, but that's not always the case.
Before you scroll down to see the troubleshooting methods, here are some of the basic steps to resolve the problem due to which your computer does not connect to the wireless printer:
- Ensure that the printer is on and has power.
- Try to connect the printer to another device to rule out the problem with the printer.
- Check if the printer is going through an error or there is a lot of print jobs stuck in the queue.
- Reinstall the printer driver to see if that fixes the problem.
- Check if there are any warning lights or other error messages.
- Ensure that the printer is placed within the connectivity range of the wireless router and the computer.
- Make sure that the computer is connected to the Wi-Fi or has the wireless service enabled.
- Check for interference between the printer, computer, and the wireless router.
- Check the firewall settings on your computer.
FIX 1: CHECK THE POWER STATUS
- See to it that the printer you are using is connected to a working power source.
- Make sure that the printer is turned on.
- If you are facing any power outage at your home or office, wait for some time and then start working on your printer.
FIX 2: RESET THE PRINTER
- Make sure that the printer is not showing any errors on the LCD screen.
- While the printer is turned on, remove the power cord connected to the power source.
- Wait for 2-5 minutes.
- Once done, connect the power cord back to the power source.
- If the printer does not turn on automatically, press the Power button.
Now, you will find your computer connecting to the wireless printer.
FIX 3: CHECK FOR DISTURBANCE
- Make sure that there are no disturbances or obstacles between the router and the printer. There are times when such disturbances go unnoticed, thus making the printer not connect to the Wi-Fi.
- Make sure that the printer or the router is not near a microwave, refrigerator, or any other metal devices (they can block the signal easily).
- Also, make sure that the printer is not away from the proximity range of the router.
FIX 4: DISABLE THE ANTIVIRUS ON YOUR COMPUTER
- On your computer, there might be some instances that will cause the antivirus to form certain restrictions.
- One of those restrictions is blocking the Internet connection.
- The error will be denoted as a printer trying to access the Internet.
- Disable the antivirus on your computer from the Control Panel and try connecting the printer to the Wi-Fi.