How can I set my printer active

[BENNIEBOY1]

How can I set my printer on active?

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @BENNIEBOY1,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

If your HP printer is showing as inactive or offline, setting it to active/online usually involves checking the printer status on your computer and ensuring the printer is properly connected. Please follow the steps below:

STEP 1: Power Reset (Helps Wake the Printer)

This is the simplest and most effective first step.

1. Make sure the printer is ON.
2. Unplug the power cable from the back of the printer.
3. Wait 15 seconds → allow the power to fully drain.
4. Plug the cable back in.
5. Let the printer restart fully.

Once restarted, check if it now shows as Active.

STEP 2: Put the Printer Into Wireless Setup Mode

If the printer is not active because it’s not connected to Wi‑Fi:

1. On the printer’s control panel, press and hold the Wireless button for 5 seconds.
2. When the Wireless light starts blinking, the printer is now in setup mode.
3. Open the HP Smart app on your phone or computer.
4. Tap “+ Add Printer” and follow the instructions to reconnect.

Once connected, HP Smart will show the printer as Active & Ready.

STEP 3: Set the Printer to “Online” in Windows 10/11

If Windows says “Offline”, do this:

1. On your computer, press Windows + I → open Settings.
2. Go to Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners.
3. Select your HP printer.
4. Choose Open print queue.
5. Click Printer at the top.
6. Make sure Use Printer Offline is unchecked.

Your printer will instantly switch to Active / Online.

STEP 4: Enable the Printer on macOS (Active on Mac)

For macOS (including Ventura, Sonoma, Tahoe):

1. Click the Apple menu.
2. Open System Settings.
3. Go to Printers & Scanners.
4. Select your HP printer.
5. If it shows Paused → click Resume.
6. If it shows Offline → click Reset printing system and re-add the printer.

Now the printer will appear as Active.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

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Regards,

VikramTheGreat