How do I put my printer online?

[Salvatore31]

I can print but I cannot scan.  It says my printer is offline.

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @Salvatore31 

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

I understand how confusing it feels when the printer appears offline for scanning even though printing works fine. Thank you for already checking the basics. 

Let’s go through a clear set of steps to bring the printer fully online so scanning works smoothly again.

 

Step 1: Verify Printer Connection

1. Make sure the printer is powered on and connected to the same network as your Windows PC.
2. If using Wi‑Fi, check that the wireless light on the printer is steady.
3. If using USB, ensure the cable is firmly connected.

 

Step 2: Restart Devices

1. Shut down the printer and disconnect the power cord.
2. Restart your Windows PC.
3. Reconnect the printer power cord and turn it back on.
   This refreshes the communication between printer and computer.

 

Step 3: Check Printer Status in Windows

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Devices > Printers & scanners.
3. Select your printer, then click Open queue.
4. If the printer shows as offline, click Printer in the menu bar and uncheck Use Printer Offline.

 

Step 4: Use the HP App

1. Open the HP App on your Windows PC.
2. Make sure the printer is added and shows as connected.
3. Try scanning directly from the HP App instead of Windows Fax and Scan.
4. If the printer does not appear, remove it and re‑add it through the app.

Step 5: Use HP’s Diagnose & Fix Tool (Windows)

Install or Open HP Smart

• Download from the Microsoft Store.
• Launch the app and sign in with your HP account if prompted.

 Access Diagnose & Fix

• Select your printer from the home screen.
• Click Printer Settings.
• Scroll to Diagnose & Fix.
• Click Start and let it run a full scan.

It will automatically detect and resolve common issues like scanning failures, connection drops, and driver conflicts.

 

Step 6: Update Drivers

1. Visit HP Software and Driver Downloads.
2. Enter your printer model.
3. Download and install the latest full feature software and drivers.
4. Restart your PC and test scanning again.

These steps should help bring your printer online for scanning. 

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Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye