Can't copy in color

[WorkzHard]

I went to make a color copy today, can't do it.  Default for copying is black and white.  When I try to change to color, there's an international no sign next to the color option, and when I select color I get the message "you do not have permission to use this feature."  I'm the only user. 

A while back I changed the printer default to black and white printing -- saves time as most of my jobs don't need to be in color.  But some jobs still sneak through in color, which is another problem.  Wondering if the default was the problem today , I turned off the printer, changed the printer default in windows settings to color, restarted the computer, turned the printer back on.  Still can't copy in color. 

Color cartridges have ample capacity, I can print in color.  Even when I don't want to. 

One of the 2 or 3 times this week I will say, "I hate this printer." 

[zoey7886 · Accepted solution]

@WorkzHard, Welcome to the HP Support Community!  

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding the copy issue! 

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

It sounds like the printer might be stuck in a restricted mode or has a permissions setting preventing color copying. Try these troubleshooting steps:

Check Admin Restrictions on the Printer

Since you're getting a permissions error, your printer might have admin restrictions enabled.

On the printer screen:

1. Go to Settings → Printer Maintenance → Access Control (or similar).
2. Look for Copying and ensure "Color Copying" is allowed.
3. If there’s a PIN or admin access required, try logging in as an administrator.

From a web browser (if applicable):

1. Type your printer's IP address in a web browser (Find it under Settings > Reports > Network Configuration).
2. Log in (default admin credentials might be admin / admin or blank).
3. Navigate to Security or Permissions and check for any restrictions on color copying.

Check Printer Copy Settings Directly

1. On the printer's touchscreen, go to Copy settings.
2. If "Color" has a "No" symbol next to it, look for an Unlock or Permissions option.
3. Try selecting Reset Copy Settings to restore defaults.

Hard Reset the Printer

1. Turn off the printer.
2. Unplug it from power for 2-3 minutes.
3. Plug it back in and turn it on.

Factory Reset (If Needed)

If nothing else works, reset the printer to factory defaults:

1. On the printer screen, go to Settings > Printer Maintenance > Restore Defaults.
2. Select Restore Factory Defaults.
3. After resetting, reconfigure the printer and check if color copying works.

Let me know if any of these steps help!  

Take care, and have an amazing day!  

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Regards,