Question 1

My printer says it's offline. How do I fix it?

Accepted Answer

Restart the printer, the router and the computer, in that order. Check the printer is on the same Wi-Fi as the computer: printers often drop off after a router change or a power cut.

Question 2

My printer won't print at all.

Accepted Answer

Check for a stuck job in the print queue and clear it, then restart the printer. If it still won't print, removing and re-adding the printer on the computer often fixes it.

Question 3

My printer prints blank or faded pages.

Accepted Answer

On ink printers, run the cleaning routine and check the cartridges aren't empty or dried out. On laser printers, a worn toner cartridge is the usual cause.

Question 4

Which printer should I buy?

Accepted Answer

For mostly black-and-white text, a laser printer is cheaper per page and doesn't dry out. For photos, an ink printer. For a home that prints now and then, look at refillable ink-tank printers: more up front, far less in ink.

Question 5

Why is ink so expensive?

Accepted Answer

Many printers are sold cheaply and make their money on cartridges. Before buying, check the price of a replacement cartridge and how many pages it prints. Ink-tank and laser printers usually cost much less per page.

Question 6

Is it worth fixing an old printer?

Accepted Answer

Usually not, for an inexpensive home printer: a repair often costs more than a new one. A good office laser printer is often worth keeping going.

Question 7

Can everyone in the office print to one printer?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a network printer shared over the office Wi-Fi or cable. We set it up so every computer and phone that should print can, and guests can't.

Question 8

How do I scan to my computer or e-mail?

Accepted Answer

Most printers do it through the maker's app on the computer or phone. Setting up scan-to-e-mail or scan-to-folder takes a few minutes once, then it's one button.

Printer questions, answered