Printer displays "Validating" when I turn it ON

[Greenie6]

When I turn the printer ON it displays "Validating". It doesn't actually completely turn ON, it just keeps displaying "Validating".
I spent 45 minutes troubleshooting with HP printer support, but I got no resolution. I'm posting here in the hope that someone else has experienced the same problem.
Thanks for your help,
GREENIE6

[Greenie6]

I'm commenting on my own posting. (Is an edit option available?) 
Another posting here states that the "Validating" problem is caused by old ,dried out ink cartridges. My cartridges were purchased within the last month or so. They shouldn't be dried out.
GREENIE6

[Hawks_Eye · Accepted solution]

Hi @Greenie6 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

I can imagine how frustrating it must feel to power on your printer and see it stuck on “Validating” instead of coming fully to life. Thank you for already spending time trying to troubleshoot—it shows real persistence. 

Let’s go through a careful sequence of steps that often helps the printer move past this state.

 

Step 1: Power Reset

• With the printer turned on, unplug the power cord from the rear.
• Wait at least 60 seconds to allow the printer’s memory to clear.
• Plug the cord back in and power on the printer.

 

Step 2: Reseat the Cartridges

• Open the cartridge access door.
• Remove each cartridge carefully.
• Inspect the copper‑colored electrical contacts for any dust or residue.
• Wipe gently with a lint‑free cloth lightly dampened with distilled water.
• Reinsert the cartridges firmly until they click into place.

 

Step 3: Check Ink Venting

• Ensure the orange pull tabs or vent strips on each cartridge are fully removed.
• Confirm the cartridges are seated correctly and the ink flow is unobstructed.

 

Step 4: Start Without Cartridges

• Power off the printer.
• Remove all cartridges.
• Power the printer back on without cartridges installed.
• If the printer moves past “Validating,” reinsert the cartridges one by one to see if a specific one triggers the error.

 

Step 5: Firmware Refresh

• On your Windows 11 computer, open the HP App.
• Select your printer, go to Printer Settings > Advanced Settings, and check for firmware updates.
• Apply any available updates, then restart the printer.

 

Step 6: Test Printing

• Once the printer powers on normally, try printing a test page.
• If the page prints successfully, the issue is resolved.

I know it can feel exhausting when the printer seems locked in place, but these steps often reset the handshake between the cartridges and the printer’s system. Once the firmware and cartridge seating are refreshed, the printer should move past “Validating” and return to normal operation.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye