Printer Busy error and it is not

[Chris11117]

While trying to print from any device mobile or desktop, I received the error “printer busy “. However, the printer is not busy at that moment.  Anyone else experiencing this behavior 

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Chris11117,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

Experiencing a "Printer Busy" error message when the printer isn't actually occupied can be frustrating. This issue can stem from various causes, ranging from software glitches to connectivity issues. Here are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially resolve this problem:

1. Restart Printer

1. Power Cycle: Turn off your printer, unplug it from the power source, wait for about 30 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on. This can clear temporary issues and reset the printer's internal settings.

2. Check Printer Connection

Wireless Connection: Ensure that your printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your devices (mobile or desktop) that you're trying to print from. Sometimes a weak or unstable connection can cause communication issues.

Wired Connection: If your printer is connected via USB or Ethernet cable, make sure the cables are securely connected at both ends and not damaged.

3. Restart Devices

1. Reboot Devices: Restart the device (computer, mobile device) from which you're trying to print. This can refresh the connection and resolve minor software glitches.

4. Clear Print Queue

1. Cancel Pending Print Jobs: Sometimes, pending print jobs that haven't been properly cleared can cause the printer to appear busy. Go to the print queue on your computer or mobile device and cancel any pending print jobs.

5. Update Printer Firmware and Drivers

Firmware Update: Check if there are any firmware updates available for your printer. Visit the manufacturer's website and follow their instructions to update the printer's firmware.

Driver Update: Ensure that you have the latest printer drivers installed on your computer or mobile device. Outdated drivers can cause compatibility issues and errors.

6. Check Printer Status

1. Printer Control Panel: On the printer's control panel, check for any error messages or warnings. Resolve any issues indicated on the panel (such as paper jams, low ink, etc.).

7. Reset Printer

1. Factory Reset: As a last resort, you can perform a factory reset on your printer. This will restore the printer to its default settings and may resolve persistent issues. Note that this will erase any custom settings you've configured.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Rachel571

HP Support