When your Dell printer not printing, it can disrupt your work routine, whether you’re at home or at the office. From software issues to paper jams, several factors can cause your printer to malfunction. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the optimum ways to troubleshoot print failures on Windows and Mac computers, so that your printer works like it should.
1. Check Basic Printer Connections
Before diving into advanced troubleshooting, start with the essentials. Ensure your printer is powered on, properly connected to your computer, and has sufficient paper and ink or toner. If you’re using a USB connection, try plugging the cable into another port. For wireless printers, confirm that the printer and computer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
Several users lament, “My Dell printer will not print even when connected.” In most instances, the issue is as simple as a dropped network or loose cable connection. Plugging the two devices back in can restore the print function instantly.
2. Make Your Printer Default
If your Dell printer will not print, your computer may be sending print tasks to a different printer. Do this to make it default:
For Windows:
- Open Control Panel → Devices and Printers.
- Right-click your printer and select Set as default printer.
- Print a test page.
For Mac:
- Go to System Settings → Printers & Scanners.
- Select your printer and click Set as Default.
With your printer now set as the default device, printing commands will automatically be sent to it.
3. Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers
Outdated or corrupted printer drivers are a leading cause of Dell printer not printing errors. Updating your drivers ensures compatibility with the latest operating system updates.
On Windows:
- Visit the All Printer Setup official support page.
- Enter your printer model (for example, if you’re facing the Dell 926 printer not printing issue).
- Download and install the latest driver compatible with your OS.
On Mac:
- Go to System Preferences → Software Update and check if there are any updates for the printer driver.
You may also visit trusted support sites like All Printer Setup, where users can obtain step-by-step guides and troubleshooting support for various models of printers.
4. Fix Paper Jam Issues
A Dell Printer Paper Jam is one of the most common reasons your printer won’t print. To fix:
- Please turn off the printer and unplug it.
- Slowly open all panels to access the desired content.
- Slowly remove any jammed paper without tearing.
- Clean the rollers to remove dirt and ensure they turn smoothly.
- Close the panels and turn on the printer.
If the jam persists, you can initiate a Dell printer paper jam repair from the control panel or the printer’s built-in diagnostic software. Print using good paper and avoid clogging the tray to prevent future jams.
5. Clear Print Queue and Restart Spooler Service (Windows)
A hung print queue can make your printer crash.
- Control Panel → Devices and Printers.
- Right-click your printer → See what’s printing.
- Cancel all queued print jobs.
- Open Services (Windows + R → services.msc) and restart the Print Spooler service.
Reboot, then try to print again.
6. Run the Built-In Printer Troubleshooter
Both Windows and macOS include built-in utilities that can identify and fix generic printing issues without any manual intervention.
On Windows:
- Navigate to Settings → Devices → Printers & Scanners → Troubleshoot.
On Mac:
- Delete your printer from the list of printers.
- Re-add it by clicking on the ‘+’ icon on Printers & Scanners.
These steps typically fix minor connectivity or software problems that are preventing your printer from printing.
7. Confirm Software Conflicts and Updates
On occasion, system updates pending or security software can interfere with printing. Confirm that your firewall or antivirus software isn’t preventing the printer connection. In addition, install any system updates pending on your Windows or Mac device.
If you’ve recently upgraded your OS and your Dell 926 printer isn’t printing, try reinstalling the driver version compatible with the latest system.
8. Restore Printer Settings to Default
When all else fails, try resetting your printer to its factory settings. Check your printer manual for the exact steps, as they vary by model. After you reset it, plug in your printer again and reinstall the drivers.
9. Bonus Tip – Keep Your Printer in Shape
Maintenance is key to preventing printing issues. To maintain a clean printer head, update drivers, and avoid using cheap cartridges. If you keep different brands of printers, ensure all your devices have current drivers. For example, if you also maintain HP printers, regularly updating your HP wireless printer driver will help prevent printing interruptions.
Final Thoughts
No matter whether you are experiencing a paper jam, driver issue, or a connectivity problem, these steps will help you resolve your Dell printer not printing issue immediately. Periodic maintenance and updating your drivers ensures hassle-free working for home and office usage.
For in-depth printer repair tutorials and reliable support, visit All Printer Setup — your preferred source of printer installation and repair solutions.
