How to Fix an HP Printer in Error State? Simple Ways to Fix

HP printers are known for their top-notch performance and reliability. However, like all other machines, they are also susceptible to errors. So whenever there is an HP printer in error state, it leads to a lot of hues and cries in the user base. The good news, however, is that it is quite simple to get it out of that state.

In this blog, we list out a few fixes which can act as the perfect first aid for this scenario. Try either of them and you should have your printer up and running in no time. So now, let us begin with the fixes without further delay.

 

How to Proceed with an HP Printer in Error State

In this section, we cover multiple ways to remove the printer from the error state. These are simple fixes that you can easily integrate without worry. 

 

Method 1 - Ensure that the Printer Connections are Fine

If the printer has a wired connection, ensure that the cable is properly plugged into both sides. Also, check for any damage to the cable.

For wireless printers, the connection must be to a working Wi-Fi network. Also, it should have an IP address assigned to it. After either of the steps, if the problems persist then do the following:

1.    Enter Control Panel in the Search bar and then choose the right option;

2.    After that, go to Hardware and Sound options in the Control Panel. Here view devices and printers;

3.    There will be a list of installed devices on your PC. Choose the HP printer here and select it;

4.    At the bottom bar, the printer’s Status field should reflect as Ready. If not, then proceed to the next method.

 

Method 2 - Restart the Printer

One of the most common fixes might be the best. For this, just restart the printer using the power button. After that, unplug the printer from the power source and plug it back in. This should give the device a jog, and the system will be able to detect it now.  

 

Method 3 - Reinstall the Printer Drivers

The printer drivers ensure that the nexus between the system and the device is perfect. If they are faulty or old, then problems begin to show. To reinstall or update the drivers:

1.    Click on Search in the taskbar and enter the words Control Panel;

2.    After that, go to Hardware and Sound > View devices and printers;

3.    Now look for the faulty HP printer, and then click on it then Remove Device;

4.    In the next prompt, confirm your selection;

5.    After that, connect the HP printer to the system and it will automatically download the correct drivers.

 

Method 4 - Automate the Print Spooler

Setting the printer spooler service in automatic mode will be a smart thing. For this:

1.    Hit the Windows Key + R to launch the Run dialog. After this, enter services.msc, and press Enter.

2.    Next, look for the Print Spooler service in the list, then right-click and select Properties.

3.    After that, use the dropdown menu next to the Startup type. Here choose Automatic.

4.    Finally, click on Apply then OK to confirm the selection.

 

Method 5 - Update Windows Operating System

A pending update of the OS can cause a variety of issues. One of them is an HP printer in error state. So ensure that you click on “Update and Shut Down” or “Update or Restart” to install pending updates. Note: While updating, keep the power

supply and internet connection on. It might cause serious issues if either of them fails.

 

To conclude

The printer in error state can become an inconvenience of great magnitude. The good news is that it is quite simple to fix the issue. Just follow the steps mentioned above to resume the printing tasks.