Struggling with an offline Dell printer is something that no one desires. But no one can stop the error when it is meant to happen, either because of network miscommunication or outdated drivers. While there are many temporary fixes, the real challenge is finding a lasting solution to stop the issue on its track. Don’t worry, though. As experts in printer troubleshooting, we’ve come across the issue often and have found some unique solutions to get a Dell printer back online and keep it that way. This blog distills our collective knowledge.
Why Is Your Dell Printer Offline?
A Dell printer can go offline for various reasons, the most common of which is a network issue. When this happens, your printer’s IP address changes and it breaks the connection between your PC and the printer. Other reasons are given below:
- Network miscommunication (especially with Wi-Fi printers)
- Power management settings on your PC
- Outdated or incorrect printer drivers
- Firewall or antivirus blocking printer communication
- Dynamic IP address changes on your network
Quick Fix to Get Your Dell Printer Online
If you need to print immediately, but your Dell printer is offline, try this temporary fix. You will be able to print but will encounter the error again if the root causes are not addressed:
- Open Device Manager on your PC.
- Navigate to USB Controllers and right-click each “USB Root Hub.”
- Go to Properties > Power Management and untick “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.”
- Repeat for your network adapter.
- Restart your computer.
- Your printer will be online.
Long-Term Fixes for the Dell Printer Offline Message
Some solutions for an offline Dell printer can feel technical, while others are fairly quick. However, when you follow the stepwise instructions for the technical ones, you won’t feel confused.
1. Set a Static IP for Your Dell Printer
Assigning a static IP address prevents your network from changing the printer’s address, which is a common cause of the offline error.
Access your router’s admin page. To do so, type 192.168.1.1 into your browser.
- Locate the DHCP Clients Table to find your printer’s current IP address.
- Enter the printer’s IP address into your browser to access its web interface.
- Go to Configuration > Print Server Settings > TCP/IP.
- Select Set Static IP Address and choose an IP outside your router’s automatic range.
- Save the changes.
- Next, update your printer’s port on your PC. Go to Printers & Devices in the Control Panel.
- Right-click your Dell printer > Properties > Ports > Add Port.
- Choose Standard TCP/IP Port and enter the new static IP.
2. Reinstall Printer Drivers
Outdated printer drivers are hard to notice. They wreak havoc with the communication between your printer and PC. So, try uninstalling the current ones and downloading the latest drivers from the official Dell website. Navigate to the ‘Getting Dell Printer Drivers, Software, User Guides and Firmware’ page on the site, where you will find detailed instructions on how to get drivers and firmware for your specific OS.
3. Restart the Printer
Sometimes, a quick restart resets the network settings, which, as we have already told you, is a key cause for the Dell printer being offline. Turn off the printer, disconnect the power cable, wait for five seconds, and reconnect it. Now, check if the printer is online.
4. Check Firewall/Antivirus Settings
Firewalls and antivirus programs are designed to protect your system by restricting network traffic, but sometimes they can mistakenly block the ports or programs necessary for your printer to function properly.
- Open the Windows Firewall settings from the Control Panel or by searching “firewall” in the Start menu.
- Click on “Allow a program or feature through Windows Firewall.”
- Click “Change settings” and, if prompted, enter your administrator password.
- Look for your printer software or related programs in the list and make sure they are checked for the appropriate network types (private or public).
5. Uncheck the Use Printer Offline Setting
In Windows 10/11, the printer can go offline due to incorrect settings. To check it:
- Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners.
- Choose your printer and click the Use Printer Offline option.
- It should be unchecked.
Conclusion
The fixes above are enough to tackle the offline error in a Dell printer. They work by eliminating the most common causes. However, don’t sit in silence if you cannot follow them or find the issue unresolved. It happens because of a deeper underlying issue that can be fixed only after a deep diagnosis. Call Dell Printer Support to find out and fix the culprit disrupting the functioning of your device.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I reset my printer from offline to online?
Restart your printer. If connected to a Wi-Fi, check whether it is also used by your PC. Also, make sure your printer is the default printing device.
2. Does Dell have a printer app?
Yes. Android device users can download the Dell printer app from Google Play. Through it, you can print photos and documents from a mobile phone.
3. How do I reset a Dell printer?
Press the Reset Menu option, and then select the Factory Reset option. Hit OK and press up to select Reset. This process resets the machine’s factory settings.