Getting message that printer is not connected to computor.

[skimo2317]

Printer worked Tuesday, tried yesterday and it gave me an error that printer was not connected to computor. Have unplugged power from printer and replugged it in but did not fix problem.

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @skimo2317,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

It’s okay. When a printer suddenly goes from “working fine” to “not connected,” it can feel confusing and a bit stressful, especially when you didn’t change anything. Let’s walk through the recommended steps that fix this most of the time. I’ll keep it simple and clear.

1. First, check how your printer is connected

Your printer may be using one of three connection methods:

A) USB connection

• Unplug the USB cable from both the printer & computer
• Wait 10 seconds
• Plug it back in firmly
• Try a different USB port on your computer
• Avoid using USB hubs

B) Wi‑Fi connection

Your printer may have dropped off the network.

• On the printer, open Wireless Settings → Wireless Summary
• Make sure it shows: Connected
• Ensure your computer is on the same Wi‑Fi network
• Restart your Wi‑Fi router (unplug for 20 seconds → plug back in)

C) Ethernet

• Make sure the cable is firmly inserted
• Check for a green/orange link light on the printer’s Ethernet port

2. Restart the Printer and the Computer

You already restarted the printer, but HP recommends restarting both ends of the communication.

• Shut down your computer
• Power off the printer
• Wait 20 seconds
• Turn the printer on
• Turn your computer on

This re‑establishes the connection handshake.

3. Remove & Re‑Add the Printer (fixes 70% of “not connected” cases)

📍 Windows 11

1. Open Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners
2. Click your HP printer → Remove
3. Restart your computer
4. Click Add device
5. Let Windows reinstall the printer automatically

If it doesn't show, click Add manually → Add network / wireless / Bluetooth printer.

4. Check the Printer’s IP Address (Wi‑Fi models)

Sometimes the printer gets a new IP address after a router reboot or power loss.

• On your printer, print a Network Configuration Page
• Note the IP address
• On your computer, open a browser and type it in (example: http://192.168.1.25)

If the page loads → your printer is online, and Windows needs to re‑pair it.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!

Regards,

VikramTheGreat

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @skimo2317,
 

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!

Regards,

VikramTheGreat