---
title: "How to fix a printer that's not connecting to a computer?"  
description: "How to fix a printer that's not connecting to a computer?"  
author: "Baishakhi Ghosh"  
published: 2024-01-01  
updated: 2024-01-04  
canonical: https://answers.mindstick.com/qa/108682/how-to-fix-a-printer-that-s-not-connecting-to-a-computer  
category: "troubleshooting"  
tags: ["troubleshooting"]  
reading_time: 2 minutes  

---

# How to fix a printer that's not connecting to a computer?



## Answers

### Answer by Saumya Mishra

## 1. Basic checks:

- **Power cycle:** Turn off both printer and computer, wait 30 seconds, then power on in [reverse order](https://www.mindstick.com/forum/156836/what-is-a-c-sharp-program-to-print-individual-from-a-string-in-reverse-order). This clears temporary glitches.
- **Check cables:** For stressed connections, ensure the USB cable is snugly plugged into both the printer and computer, and try a different port if available. Ensure Wi-Fi for [your printer](https://answers.mindstick.com/qa/108723/what-to-do-if-your-printer-is-not-printing-in-color) is lively and connected to the same network as your [PC](https://yourviews.mindstick.com/view/tags/pc).
- **Paper and ink:** Confirm paper is loaded and ink isn't depleted, as some printers refuse to connect if these are lacking.

## 2. Software solutions:

- **Drivers:** Update your printer drivers directly from the manufacturer's website. Outdated drivers can cause [connection issues](https://answers.mindstick.com/qa/108757/how-to-resolve-phone-wi-fi-connection-issues).
- **Restart print spooler:** In Windows, search for "services. msc", find "Print Spooler", right-click, and restart. This clears printing jobs that might be stuck.
- **Uninstall and reinstall:** In [your computer](https://www.mindstick.com/articles/13023/choosing-the-best-power-cord-for-your-computer-a-layman-s-guide)'s settings, remove the printer, then reinstall it using the latest drivers. This refreshes the connection.

**3. [Network troubleshooting](https://answers.mindstick.com/qa/100326/what-is-network-troubleshooting) (wireless printers):**

- **Reconnect to** [**Wi-Fi**](https://www.mindstick.com/category/blog/wifi-network)**:** Forget the current network on your printer and reconnect, entering the password again.
- **Check router settings:** Ensure your router isn't blocking the printer's MAC address. Consult your router manual or contact your internet provider for guidance.

## 4. Advanced measures:

- **Printer diagnostics:** Many printers have built-in [diagnostic tools](https://www.mindstick.com/forum/160468/how-to-disable-diagnostic-tools-visual-studio-2022), accessible through their menus or software, that can identify and fix specific issues.
- **Manufacturer support:** If none of these steps work, reach out to your printer manufacturer's [support team](https://www.mindstick.com/articles/13155/contact-mywifiext-support-team-to-resolver-network-issues) for personalized assistance.


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Original Source: https://answers.mindstick.com/qa/108682/how-to-fix-a-printer-that-s-not-connecting-to-a-computer

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