laserjet 3301 keeps going offline (according to Word/Excel/etc) but actually online; cant print

[MStever007]

When attempting to print via adobe, Word, Excel, even HP Smart, get "printer offline" error message.  However, HP Smart shows printer is online, Printer itself shows it's hooked up to the network with strong signal, and I'm able to remote into printer with IP address.  Why this mixed messages and how to fix?

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @MStever007,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

I understand how frustrating it will be when your HP LaserJet 3301 appears online in HP Smart and via IP access but shows as offline when printing from apps like Adobe, Word, Excel, or HP Smart itself. This mismatch is usually caused by a Windows print driver or port configuration issue, not a network problem.

Even though your printer is connected to the network:

• Windows may be using a WSD (Web Services for Devices) port, which is known to be unreliable.
• Or it may be defaulting to an offline copy of the printer.
• HP Smart uses cloud-based communication, which is why it still sees the printer as online.

How to Fix It:

1. Check and Change the Printer Port

1. Open Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
2. Right-click your printer > Printer Properties.
3. Go to the Ports tab.
4. If it's using a WSD port, change it:
   • Click Add Port > Standard TCP/IP Port > New Port.
   • Enter your printer’s IP address (you already have it).
   • Complete the wizard and select the new port.
5. Click Apply and OK.

2. Disable SNMP (Optional but Recommended)

• In the Ports tab, click Configure Port.
• Uncheck SNMP Status Enabled.
• Click OK.

3. Set the Printer as Default

• Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
• Click your printer > Set as default.

4. Remove Duplicate Printer Entries

• If you see multiple versions of your printer, remove all but the one using the TCP/IP port.

I hope this helps.

Take care, and have an amazing day!
 

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Regards,

VikramTheGreat