Why Wont My Printer Print

Last updated: July 03, 2026 · 5 min read

Why Is My Printer Connected but Not Printing?

This is one of the most frustrating printer problems. Your computer says the printer is connected, but nothing comes out when you try to print.

The most common reason is stuck print jobs. When one document gets stuck in the print queue, it blocks everything behind it. Think of it like a traffic jam — one stopped car blocks everyone else.

Here’s how to clear your print queue:

1. Open your print queue: On Windows, click the Start button and type “printers.” Click “Printers & scanners.” Find your printer and click “Open queue.” Don’t worry if you see several old documents listed there.
2. Cancel all documents: Click “Printer” at the top of the window, then click “Cancel All Documents.” If this option is grayed out, right-click on each document and choose “Cancel.”
3. Restart your printer: Turn your printer completely off. Wait 30 seconds. Turn it back on.
4. Try printing again: Open the document you want to print and try one more time.

According to Microsoft’s official guidance, clearing the print queue solves about 60% of printing problems.

What Are Three Possibilities That Might Cause a Printer Not to Print at All?

If your printer isn’t responding at all, there are three main culprits to check first.

1. Connection Problems

Is your printer plugged into power? Is the cable connecting it to your computer secure? If you have a wireless printer, is it connected to your Wi-Fi network?

Check the display screen on your printer. Many printers show error messages or connection status right on the screen. Look for messages about Wi-Fi or cable connections.

For wireless printers, sometimes the printer loses its Wi-Fi connection. You may need to reconnect it through the printer’s menu. Look for a button or menu option that says “Network” or “Wireless.”

2. Out of Ink or Paper Problems

This might sound obvious, but it’s easy to overlook. Open your printer and check:

• Is there paper in the tray?
• Are the ink cartridges empty or low?
• Is any paper jammed inside?

Even if your printer has ink, sometimes the cartridges aren’t seated properly. Take them out and firmly push them back in until you hear a click.

If you’re wondering why is my printer printing blank pages when it has ink, the cartridge might be clogged or installed incorrectly. Try removing and reinstalling it.

3. The Wrong Printer Is Selected

Many computers remember multiple printers — ones you used to have, ones at the library, or ones you’ve only used once. Your computer might be trying to send your document to the wrong printer.

When you click “Print,” look carefully at the printer name in the print dialog box. Make sure it matches the printer sitting on your desk.

Why Is My Printer Not Printing My Work?

If your printer won’t print documents from your computer but it will print a test page, the problem is in how your computer and printer are talking to each other.

First, try the test page. Most printers have a button combination that prints a test page directly from the printer. Check your printer’s manual or look online for “[your printer model] print test page.”

If the test page prints fine, you know the printer itself works. The problem is somewhere between your computer and printer.

Here’s what to try:

1. Restart both devices: Turn off your printer and computer. Wait one minute. Turn the printer on first, wait for it to finish starting up, then turn on your computer. This resets the connection between them.
2. Update your printer driver: The driver is a small program that helps your computer talk to your printer. Go to the printer manufacturer’s website and look for “Downloads” or “Support.” Search for your printer model and download the latest driver. Don’t worry — most of these install themselves when you double-click them.
3. Check your default printer: On Windows, go to Settings, then Devices, then Printers & scanners. Find your printer and click “Set as default.” This tells your computer to always use this printer unless you choose a different one.

Many people ask why won t my printer print from my laptop or why won t my printer print from my computer. Usually it’s because the driver needs updating or the default printer setting changed.

How Can I Reset My Printer?

Sometimes your printer just needs a fresh start. A full reset clears out any stuck settings or temporary glitches.

Here’s how to properly reset most printers:

1. Turn off your printer: Use the power button on the printer itself.
2. Unplug the power cable: Pull the plug from the back of the printer, not just from the wall. This makes sure the printer fully powers down.
3. Wait 60 seconds: This gives the printer’s memory time to clear completely.
4. Plug it back in: Connect the power cable to the printer, then to the wall.
5. Turn it on: Press the power button and wait for the printer to finish its startup routine. This might take a minute or two.

For wireless printers, you may also need to reconnect to your Wi-Fi network after a reset. Check your printer’s manual for the specific steps — they vary by brand.

If you’re still wondering why isn t my printer printing with ink after a reset, the cartridges themselves might need replacing, even if your printer says they have ink left. Cartridges can dry out or malfunction.

Why Is My Printer Not Printing From My Phone?

Printing from your phone works differently than printing from a computer. Your phone and printer both need to support wireless printing.

Most modern printers support either AirPrint (for iPhones) or Google Cloud Print. Check if your printer has a Wi-Fi indicator light. If it’s not lit up or is blinking, your printer isn’t connected to your network.

Make sure your phone and printer are on the same Wi-Fi network. This is important. If your phone is on your home Wi-Fi but your printer is on a guest network, they can’t talk to each other.

You can find helpful tips about mobile printing at the AARP tech help center, which has guides specifically written for older adults.

When Should You Ask for Help Instead of Fixing It Yourself?

Some printer problems are easy to fix. Others need professional help. Here’s when it makes sense to call our printer help service:

• You’ve tried these basic steps and nothing works
• Your printer shows an error code you don’t recognize
• The printer won’t connect to Wi-Fi no matter what you try
• You’re not comfortable opening settings or installing driver updates
• Your printer is printing, but everything comes out blurry or streaked

Don’t feel bad about asking for help. According to AARP’s 2025 Tech Trends research, 1 in 5 adults 50+ say getting setup and tech support is a barrier to using technology. You’re not alone, and these problems can be genuinely tricky.

The PC Buddy can connect to your computer remotely and fix printer problems while you watch. No home visit needed. We can see what you’re seeing and walk you through each step.