my printer is showing as idle

[abitaf]

i have connected my printer via usb as could not get a wireless connection but it is now showing as idle even though it is on

[Pallipurath]

Hi @abitaf,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query.

I am sorry to hear that your printer is showing as "idle" despite being connected via USB,  I would request you to please follow the steps:

Restart Devices

• Turn off the printer and unplug it for 30–60 seconds.
• Restart your PC.
• Power the printer back on and reconnect.

Set Printer as Default

• Go to Control Panel → Devices and Printers.
• Right-click your printer → Set as default printer.
• If another printer is set as default, jobs may not route correctly.

Clear Print Queue

• In Devices and Printers, double-click your printer.
• Cancel any stuck jobs in the queue.
• Try printing again.

Run Windows Troubleshooter

• Go to Settings → Devices → Printers & scanners.
• Select your printer → Manage → Run the troubleshooter.
• Follow the guided steps to fix detected issues.

Update/Reinstall Drivers

• Visit HP’s support site for your printer model.
• Download and install the latest USB drivers and printer software.
• If already installed, uninstall the printer from Devices and Printers, then reinstall with fresh drivers.

Check Printer Status

• On the printer’s control panel, confirm it’s not showing an error (paper jam, low ink, etc.).
• If the printer is ready but Windows shows “Idle,” it’s usually a driver or communication issue.

Test Printing

• Right-click the printer in Devices and Printers → Printer properties → Print Test Page.
• If the test page prints, the issue is with application settings.

Take care and have an amazing day!

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Regards

Pallipurath.