Can't detect nor use my printer (Laser Jet MFP 125a)

[FinnishAurora]

Dear the HP forum and community,

I'm currently suffering from the problem as I can't:

1. Use the printer (as it continues to be offline)
2. Can't detect the printer afterward on my system preferences on macOS (This happens after I delete the printer to reset because of problem number 1)

So you can see that at first, it went offline, I couldn't print anything although I have tried switching between 2 cable hubs and experimented with all the ports my MacBook has. Both of the ports didn't work as the offline status stays.

Then I followed tutorials (including HP's). First I restarted my computer to reconnect, then I downloaded EasyStart, Utillity,etc.. just like on the websites and other forums. After that, I went on to delete both of my already connected printer (including the Laser Jet). I've tried to add it back but my Macbook couldn't detect it.

I then went back to utility, this time it "connected" to the Laserjet, however, information such as id, serial version can't be detected.

(I have printed using this printer for years and I struggle to understand how come this happens under any circumstances>)

Thank you

Nathan Ake

[Raj_05]

Hi @FinnishAurora,

Welcome to HP Support Community.  

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

Troubleshooting printer connectivity issues can be a bit tricky, but let's go through some steps to try and resolve the problem. Please follow these steps.

Check Physical Connections:

1. Cables: Ensure that the USB or network cables connecting the printer to your MacBook are securely plugged in. Try using a different cable to rule out any issues with the current one.
2. Ports: Connect the printer to a different USB port on your MacBook to eliminate the possibility of a faulty port.

Verify Printer Status:

1. Power Cycle: Turn off the printer, unplug it from the power source, wait for about 30 seconds, and then plug it back in. Turn the printer back on.
2. Check Display: If your printer has a display, make sure it doesn't show any error messages. Resolve any errors displayed on the printer.

Reinstall Printer Drivers:

1. Remove Existing Drivers:
   • Open "System Preferences" on your Mac.
   • Go to "Printers & Scanners."
   • Select the printer and click on the '-' button to remove it.
2. Download Latest Drivers:
   • Visit the official HP website and download the latest drivers for your printer model.
   • Install the drivers and follow the on-screen instructions.

Reset Printing System:

1. Open Printers & Scanners:
   • Go to "System Preferences."
   • Select "Printers & Scanners."
2. Reset Printing System:
   • Right-click on the list of printers and select "Reset printing system."
   • Confirm the action when prompted.

Reconnect the Printer:

1. Add Printer:
   • After resetting the printing system, click the '+' button in the Printers & Scanners window.
   • See if your printer is detected and add it.

Network Connection:

1. Check Network Settings:
   • If your printer is connected over the network, ensure that both your MacBook and the printer are on the same network.
   • Verify the IP address of the printer and add it manually if necessary.

HP Print and Scan Doctor:

1. Download and Run:
   • Download the HP Print and Scan Doctor tool from the official HP website.
   • Run the tool to diagnose and fix printing issues.

Firewall/Antivirus:

1. Temporarily Disable Firewall/Antivirus:
   • Sometimes, security software may block the printer connection. Temporarily disable your firewall or antivirus and check if the printer is detected.

Remember to enable your firewall and antivirus after troubleshooting to ensure the security of your system.

I hope this helps. 
 

Take care and have a good day.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

Alden4
HP Support