I cannot get the printer on line and status shows idle so cannot print anything

[HarryGG]

I have followed steps numerous times to remove and reinstall my printer, disconnected, turned power off and on, unplugged, even bought a cable for not wireless from Best Buy.  Status says idle or not connected.    I don't know what else to do.  I was able to print about 3 weeks ago and now nothing.  Please help!  Thanks

[zoey7886]

@HarryGG, Welcome to the HP Support Community!  

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding that printer! 

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.  

I know how frustrating it is when your printer just refuses to cooperate—especially after you’ve already done everything right. Thanks for walking through all those steps; that helps a lot.

Since it’s stuck on “idle” or “not connected,” here are a few things to try that might nudge it back online:

Set as Default Printer:
Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners, click your printer, and select “Set as default.” Sometimes Windows forgets who the star of the show is.

Manually Set It Online:
Right-click the printer icon > See what's printing > Printer menu > uncheck “Use Printer Offline” if it's ticked.

Check the USB or Network Port:
If you’re using the cable now, make sure it’s plugged into a USB port directly on your PC, not a dock or hub.

Restart Print Spooler Service:
Type services.msc in your Windows search bar, scroll down to Print Spooler, right-click > Restart. Think of it as giving your printer’s “brain” a fresh start.  

Hope this helps! 

Take care, and have an amazing day!  

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Regards,