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Why Is My HP Printer Offline on Mac? Causes and Fixes

  • millsstanley94
  • Jul 1
  • 4 min read


If you’re trying to print from your Mac and see the frustrating “HP Printer Offline” message, you’re not alone. Many Mac users face this issue, and it can be caused by anything from outdated drivers to connectivity problems. The good news? Most of these issues are easy to resolve with a few targeted steps.

In this guide, we’ll explore the common causes of the HP printer offline error on macOS and show you how to bring your printer back online quickly.


🖨️ What Does "Printer Offline" Mean on a Mac?

When your Mac says your HP printer is offline, it means the computer is unable to communicate with the printer. This doesn’t always mean your printer is turned off — it may be:

  • Disconnected from the Wi-Fi or USB cable

  • Experiencing a software or driver issue

  • Stuck with a stalled print job in the queue

  • Misconfigured in macOS printer settings

Let’s break down the most common causes and their fixes.


🔍 Common Causes and How to Fix Them


1. Connection Issues (Wi-Fi or USB)

Your HP printer may appear offline if it’s not connected properly to your Mac.

Fix:

  • For wireless printers:Make sure your printer is on the same Wi-Fi network as your Mac.Check the printer's wireless icon or print a network status report.

  • For USB printers:Unplug the USB cable, restart both devices, then reconnect.

Also, restart your Wi-Fi router if you're using a wireless printer.


2. Printer Not Set as Default or Selected Correctly

Your Mac may be trying to print to a different (and offline) printer.

Fix:

  1. Go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners (macOS Ventura/Sonoma) orSystem Preferences > Printers & Scanners (earlier macOS).

  2. Select the correct HP printer from the list.

  3. Right-click and select “Set as default printer.”

Try printing again.


3. “Use Printer Offline” Mode Enabled

This setting is more common on Windows, but similar miscommunication can happen on macOS due to paused printers.

Fix:

  1. Open Printers & Scanners.

  2. Click your HP printer > Open Print Queue.

  3. Make sure the printer is not paused.

  4. If it is, click Resume Printer.



4. Stuck Print Jobs in the Queue

A stuck or corrupt print job may block the queue, making your printer appear offline.

Fix:

  1. Go to Print Queue.

  2. Cancel all current print jobs by clicking the “X” next to each.

  3. Then restart both the Mac and the printer.

Try printing a new document.


5. Outdated or Missing Printer Drivers

HP printers require specific macOS drivers to communicate properly. After a system update, old drivers may stop working.

Fix:

  1. Go to https://support.hp.com.

  2. Enter your printer model (e.g., HP ENVY 6000, DeskJet 2700).

  3. Download and install the latest macOS driver or HP Easy Start.

  4. After installation, restart your Mac and try printing.

You can also use Apple’s AirPrint (for supported models) if the HP driver isn't available.


6. MacOS Version or Update Conflict

After macOS updates (e.g., Ventura or Sonoma), printer drivers may become incompatible or disabled.

Fix:

  • Reinstall the printer:

    1. Open Printers & Scanners.

    2. Select your HP printer and click the minus (-) button to remove it.

    3. Click the plus (+) button to add it again.

    4. Select the printer from the list and choose either:

      • HP driver (if listed), or

      • AirPrint (for built-in compatibility)


7. Firewall or Security Software Interference

Some firewall settings or third-party antivirus software can block communication between your Mac and printer.

Fix:

  • Temporarily disable your firewall or antivirus.

  • Try printing again.

  • If it works, add your printer or HP software as an allowed app.



8. Firmware Issues on the Printer

Older firmware can cause your HP printer to malfunction or fail to connect.

Fix:

  1. Visit https://support.hp.com.

  2. Look up your model and check for firmware updates.

  3. Follow the instructions to install the update using USB or over Wi-Fi.


🧰 Bonus: Use HP Smart App

HP’s Smart App can simplify setup, updates, and troubleshooting.

Steps:

  1. Download the HP Smart App from the Mac App Store.

  2. Open the app and add your printer.

  3. Use the app to check printer status, update firmware, and reconnect to Wi-Fi.

This tool works especially well for newer models like HP DeskJet Plus, ENVY Inspire, and OfficeJet series.


📌 Final Tips Before You Contact Support

  • Make sure your macOS is updated to the latest version.

  • Reboot all devices, including your router.

  • Try printing from another app (e.g., TextEdit) to isolate the issue.

If none of the above solutions work, it might be a deeper hardware or system conflict.



📞 When to Contact HP Support

If your printer still shows as offline after trying all steps:

  • Visit: https://support.hp.com

  • Use the Virtual Assistant, Chat, or Phone support

  • Have your printer model and serial number ready

HP agents can guide you through more advanced diagnostics or schedule repairs if needed.


✅ Conclusion

An HP printer offline error on Mac can be annoying, but it’s usually caused by minor miscommunications between devices, outdated drivers, or Wi-Fi problems. By following the solutions outlined above, you can bring your HP printer back online and get back to printing with minimal downtime.


 
 
 

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