Printer No Longer Available Error

[Loren1234]

When trying to print any device I try to print from get the error that the printer is no longer available. I’ve checked the WI-FI & its connected & says the signal is strong.

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Loren1234,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

If your HP OfficeJet Pro 6978 printer is connected to Wi-Fi and shows a strong signal but devices are reporting that the printer is no longer available, Here are some steps to troubleshoot and resolve this issue:

1. Restart Printer and Devices

1. Turn off your printer and unplug it from the power source.Wait for about 60 seconds.Plug the printer back in and turn it on.Restart the devices you are trying to print from.

2. Check Network Connection

1. Ensure the printer is connected to the correct Wi-Fi network.On the printer’s control panel, touch the Wireless icon to check the network status.Ensure that the devices you are trying to print from are connected to the same Wi-Fi network as the printer.

3. Verify IP Address

1. On the printer’s control panel, print a Network Configuration Report:
   • Go to Setup > Reports > Network Configuration Report.Check the printer's IP address on the report.On your devices, try to access the printer’s web interface by entering the IP address into a web browser. If you can access the web interface, the printer is correctly connected to the network.

4. Reinstall Printer on Devices(for MAC)

1. Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.Select your printer and click the - (minus) button to remove it.Click the + (plus) button to add the printer again.Select your printer from the list and click Add.

Windows:

1. Open Control Panel > Devices and Printers.Right-click on your printer and select Remove device.Click Add a printer and follow the instructions to add your printer again.

5. Update Printer Drivers and Software

1. Visit the HP Support website.Search for your printer model (HP OfficeJet Pro 6978) and download the latest drivers and software for your operating system. Install the downloaded drivers and software.

6. Assign a Static IP Address to the Printer

1. Access the printer’s web interface by entering the IP address into a web browser.Log in (if prompted).Go to Network or Wireless settings.Set a static IP address that is within your network’s range but outside the DHCP range of your router.

7. Reset Network Settings

1. On the printer’s control panel, go to Setup > Network > Restore Network Settings.Reconnect the printer to the Wi-Fi network using the Wireless Setup Wizard.

8. Print a Test Page

1. After reconnecting, try printing a test page directly from the printer’s control panel to ensure it is functioning correctly.

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