will not print

[JAREDG1026]

HP smart says no issues and the green check mark is lit, but when I hit print the printer just circles saying printing but never does and eventually times out.

[Max3Aj]

Hi @JAREDG1026, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

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

Since your HP OfficeJet Pro 7740 is stuck on "Printing" but never actually prints, despite HP Smart showing no issues, here are some troubleshooting steps you can try:

Restart Everything

• Power cycle the printer:
  1. Turn off the printer and unplug it from power.
  2. Wait 2-3 minutes, then plug it back in and turn it on.
• Restart your PC:
  • Shut down and restart your Windows 11 computer.
• Restart your router:
  • If you're using Wi-Fi, restart your router to refresh the network connection.

Check Printer Connection

• If using Wi-Fi:
  • Ensure the printer is connected to the correct network.
  • Run the Wireless Test Report from the printer’s control panel (Settings > Network Setup).
• If using USB:
  • Try a different USB port and cable.

Clear Print Queue

1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Scroll down and find Print Spooler.
3. Right-click on Print Spooler > Restart.
4. Go to C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS and delete any files inside.

Try Printing from the IP Address

1. Find the printer's IP Address:
   • On the printer, go to Settings > Network Setup > View Network Summary.
2. Open a web browser and enter the IP Address.
3. Try printing a Test Page from the embedded web server (EWS).

Remove and Reinstall Printer Drivers

1. Open Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
2. Right-click on HP OfficeJet Pro 7740 and select Remove Device.
3. Download and install the latest Full Feature Software from HP website:
   HP OfficeJet Pro 7740 Driver
4. Restart your PC and try printing again.

Update Printer Firmware

1. Open HP Smart or visit the HP EWS (using IP Address).
2. Check for any Firmware Updates.
3. If available, update and restart the printer.

Print Directly via USB (as a Test)

• If using Wi-Fi, try connecting a USB cable and printing directly to check if the issue is network-related.

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping! 

Max3Aj

HP Support