6 Ways to Fix Printer in an Error State

Printer errors can be frustrating, especially when you need to print essential documents. The ‘printer in an error state’ error occurs when there is a communication problem between the printer and the computer. It can happen due to various reasons, such as outdated drivers, software glitches, or hardware issues. Fortunately, there are ways to fix this issue. In this article, we’ll discuss six ways to resolve a printer in an error state.

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1. Check the Printer Connection

Fix Printer in an Error State, One of the most common reasons for a printer in an error state is a loose or faulty connection. Ensure that your printer is correctly plugged into the power source and your computer. Check the USB cable connecting the printer and computer for damages, looseness, or disconnection. If there is a problem, try replacing the cable with a new one.

2. Restart Your Printer and Computer

Fix Printer in an Error State, Restarting your printer and computer can fix many problems, including printer errors. Turn off both devices, unplug them from the power source, and wait for a minute. Then plug them back in and turn them on. This will refresh your printer and computer, allowing them to re-establish the communication.

3. Update Printer Drivers

Fix Printer in an Error State, Outdated printer drivers can cause various issues, including printer errors. Go to your printer manufacturer’s website and download the latest printer drivers for your printer model. Install them on your computer and restart your device. This should fix any driver-related issues.

4. Clear Print Spooler Files

Fix Printer in an Error State, The print spooler is a software that manages all print jobs. If it becomes corrupted, it can cause printer errors. To fix this issue, clear the print spooler files. Press the Windows key + R, type ‘services.msc,’ and hit enter. Look for the print spooler service, right-click on it, and select ‘Stop.’ Then navigate to ‘C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS’ and delete all the files in that folder. Finally, restart the print spooler service.

5. Run Troubleshooter

Fix Printer in an Error State, Windows has an inbuilt printer troubleshooter that can identify and fix printer errors. Press the Windows key + I, select ‘Update & Security,’ and click on ‘Troubleshoot.‘ Under the ‘Get up and running’ section, select ‘Printer’ and click on ‘Run the troubleshooter.’ Follow the on-screen instructions to fix any issues.

6. Check for Hardware Issues

Fix Printer in an Error State, If the above methods don’t work, there might be a hardware problem with your printer. Check your printer for any visible damage or hardware issues. If you find any problems, consider taking your printer to a professional repair service.

Fix Printer in an Error State, Conclusion

Fix Printer in an Error State, A printer in an error state is a common issue that can be resolved through simple methods. Ensure that your printer is correctly connected, restart your printer and computer, update your printer drivers, clear the print spooler files, and run the inbuilt printer troubleshooter. If none of these methods work, check for any hardware issues with your printer. By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the printer in an error state issue and get back to printing your documents.

FAQs

1. What is a printer in an error state?

A printer in an error state is a common printer error that occurs when there is a communication problem between the printer and the computer.

2. How do I fix a printer in an error state?

You can fix a printer in an error state by checking the printer connection, restarting your printer and computer, updating printer drivers, clearing print spooler files, running troubleshooter, or checking for hardware issues.

3. Why does my printer keep going into an error state?

Your printer might keep going into an error state due to outdated drivers, software glitches, loose or faulty connections, or hardware issues.

4. How do I troubleshoot my printer?

You can troubleshoot your printer by running the inbuilt printer troubleshooter in Windows, checking for hardware issues, or seeking professional help.

5. How do I update my printer drivers?

You can update your printer drivers by going to your printer manufacturer’s website, downloading the latest printer drivers for your printer model, and installing them on your computer.