"Printer in error state" - what does that mean?

[Anon451]

I moved house, connected my printer to my new wi-fi, and now it won't print. Every time I try, I get a notification on my computer "printer in error state." None of the suggested fixes in troubleshooting have helped.

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @Anon451,

Welcome to the HP Support Community! 

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding error code on your printer!  

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

A "Printer in Error State" message usually means there’s a communication issue between your printer and computer. Since you've recently moved and changed Wi-Fi, here’s what to try:

Check Printer Connection

For Wireless Printers:

• Ensure the printer is connected to the correct Wi-Fi network.
• Print a Network Configuration Page (check your printer’s manual for steps).
• If the IP address is incorrect, reconnect using Wireless Setup Wizard (found in printer settings).

For USB Printers:

• Try a different USB port or a new cable.

Restart Printer & Computer

• Turn off the printer, unplug it for 60 seconds, and then turn it back on.
• Restart your computer and try printing again.

Check for Paper Jams or Low Ink

• Open the printer and check for any jammed paper or low ink warnings on the control panel.

Update Printer Drivers

• Go to HP’s official website, download the latest drivers for your printer, and install them.

Set Printer as Default & Clear Print Queue

• Open Control Panel > Devices and Printers
• Right-click your printer and select Set as Default Printer
• Open Print Queue, cancel any stuck jobs, and retry printing.

Check Windows Services (For Windows Users)

• Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter
• Find Print Spooler, right-click it, and select Restart

If these don’t work, let me know and I’ll guide you further! 😊

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?"—your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀

Best regards,

[Anon451]

Hi Kuroi,

I wasn't able to download drivers; the HP website directed me to the HP app, which I already have, and the app directed me to another webpage which came up with an error message and refused to load.

I tried all of your other suggestions, and nothing has changed. I'm still getting the same error message on my laptop when I try to print.

The printer screen allows me to print testing/information pages, so it's not a physical problem. It's something to do with the network connection, but everything looks like it's fine. I've disconnected and reconnected to the wifi, switched off the router and rebooted it, restarted the print spooler, rebooted the printer and my laptop each at least half a dozen times, the printer is set as the default on my laptop, and I've printed from this laptop before I moved, so it used to be set up just fine. I even restored factory settings to the printer and then reconnected it all over again, with no change. I still get the error message on my laptop.

Do you have any other suggestions?

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Anon451,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

I see you need help with the printer connectivity. Please do not worry I am here to help you.

Check Network Connection: Ensure that your printer is within the range of your Wi-Fi network and that there are no obstacles affecting the signal.

To restore the printer to the original network settings:

• Disconnect the power cord from the router.
•  Turn off the printer.
•  Turn off the mobile device/PC.
•  Reconnect the power cord to the router, then wait for the Internet activity light to display a normal connected status.
•  Turn on the printer.
•  Turn on the mobile device/PC.

Run the setup wizard to get the printer connected to the new network. 

• Remove HP Smart App from your mobile device (if already installed).
•  From the printer control panel, touch or swipe down the tab at the top of the screen to open the Dashboard, and then touch ( Setup ).
•  Touch Network Setup. 
• Touch Restore Network Settings. A message appears stating that the network defaults will be restored. 
• Touch Yes. 
• Print the network configuration page and verify that the network settings have been reset.

Once done, Please reinstall the HP smart app, open the app, and click on add printer on top. Select your printer and follow the on-screen instructions to get your printer configured on the app.

Update printer firmware: Please click here

Use the HP Print and Scan Doctor

If you haven't tried this yet, HP provides a tool specifically designed to diagnose and fix printing issues:

• Download the HP Print and Scan Doctor from the official HP website: HP Print and Scan Doctor.
• Run the tool and follow the instructions. It may detect and fix any issues with the printer connection or print spooler.

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”.