How to Repair “Printer Cannot be Contacted Over the Network” Problem on Windows 10

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In today’s fast-paced digital world, the printer has become an essential device for both personal and professional use. However, encountering the frustrating issue of a printer that cannot be contacted over the network can disrupt productivity and cause unnecessary delays. In this article, we explore effective solutions to fix this problem and get your printer up and running smoothly again.

Check the printer’s network connection: Ensure that the printer is properly connected to the network, either via Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi. Make sure the network cable is securely plugged in and if using Wi-Fi, ensure that the printer is within range of the network.

Ensure the Proper Services are Enabled

To fix the “Printer Cannot be Contacted Over Network” issue, you need to ensure that the proper services are enabled. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “services.msc” and press Enter to open the Services window.
3. Scroll down and locate the “Print Spooler” service.
4. Right-click on the “Print Spooler” service and select “Properties” from the context menu.
5. In the Properties window, make sure the “Startup type” is set to “Automatic”.
6. If the service is not running, click on the “Start” button to start it.
7. Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes.

By ensuring that the Print Spooler service is enabled and running, you should be able to fix the “Printer Cannot be Contacted Over Network” issue. If you still encounter any problems, consider reaching out to your printer manufacturer’s support or referring to online resources for further assistance.

A printer without a network connection is like a pen without ink – it’s useless.

Remove and Add the Printer

To remove and add the printer on your Windows 10 PC, follow these simple steps:

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “control printers” and press Enter to open the Devices and Printers section in the Control Panel.
3. Right-click on the printer you want to remove and select “Remove device” from the context menu.
4. Confirm the removal by clicking “Yes” when prompted.
5. To add a printer, return to the Devices and Printers section in the Control Panel.
6. Click on the “Add a printer” button.
7. Select the printer you want to add from the list or click on “The printer that I want isn’t listed” if it’s not shown.
8. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the printer setup.

If you’re still experiencing issues with your network printer, consider using the Windows printer troubleshooter or updating the printer driver. For more advanced troubleshooting, you can also consult online forums, YouTube tutorials, or contact the printer manufacturer’s support.

Configure Necessary Services

  1. Check Printer Connectivity: Ensure that the printer is properly connected to the network and powered on.
  2. Verify Network Settings: Confirm that the printer and the computer are connected to the same network.
  3. Restart Printer and Computer: Turn off both the printer and the computer, then power them back on after a few seconds.
  4. Update Printer Drivers: Visit the printer manufacturer’s website and download the latest drivers for your printer model.
    Restart Printer and Computer: Turn off both the printer and the computer, then power them back on after a few seconds.
Update Printer Drivers: Visit the printer manufacturer's website and download the latest drivers for your printer model.
  5. Disable Firewall or Antivirus: Temporarily turn off any firewall or antivirus software that might be blocking the printer’s network communication.
  6. Configure Printer IP Address: Assign a static IP address to the printer to ensure a stable network connection.
  7. Reset Printer Settings: Reset the printer to its default settings and reconfigure it for network connectivity.
  8. Restart Network Devices: Restart your router or modem to refresh the network connection.
    Reset Printer Settings: Reset the printer to its default settings and reconfigure it for network connectivity.
Restart Network Devices: Restart your router or modem to refresh the network connection.
  9. Check Network Cable/Connection: Ensure that the Ethernet cable connecting the printer to the network is securely plugged in.
  10. Contact Technical Support: If the issue persists, reach out to the printer manufacturer’s technical support for further assistance.
    Check Network Cable/Connection: Ensure that the Ethernet cable connecting the printer to the network is securely plugged in.
Contact Technical Support: If the issue persists, reach out to the printer manufacturer's technical support for further assistance.

python
import socket

def check_printer_connection(printer_ip):
try:
# Create a TCP/IP socket
sock = socket.socket(socket.AF_INET, socket.SOCK_STREAM)

# Set a timeout value for the connection attempt
sock.settimeout(2)

# Attempt to connect to the printer using its IP address and port
result = sock.connect_ex((printer_ip, 9100))

# Check the connection result
if result == 0:
print("Printer is reachable over the network.")
else:
print("Printer cannot be contacted over the network.")

# Close the socket
sock.close()

except socket.error as e:
print("An error occurred while trying to connect to the printer:", str(e))

# Usage example
printer_ip = "192.168.1.100" # Replace with the printer's IP address
check_printer_connection(printer_ip)

This code attempts to connect to the printer’s IP address on port 9100, which is a common port used for printing. If the connection is successful (result = 0), it prints a message indicating that the printer is reachable. Otherwise, it outputs a message stating that the printer cannot be contacted over the network.

Keep in mind that this is just a basic example and may not cover all scenarios. Additional error handling and checks can be implemented to make it more robust and suitable for your specific use case.

Set up a Static IP Address for the Printer

To set up a static IP address for your printer, follow these steps:

1. Open the Control Panel on your PC.
2. Search for “View network status and tasks” and click on it.
3. Click on “Change adapter settings” on the left side of the window.
4. Right-click on the network connection that your printer is connected to and select “Properties.”
5. In the Properties window, double-click on “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).”
6. Select the “Use the following IP address” option.
7. Enter the IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS server address for your printer. Make sure the IP address is outside the range of the DHCP pool.
8. Click “OK” to save the settings.

By assigning a static IP address to your printer, you ensure that it always has the same address on your network. This can help resolve issues with the printer not being contacted over the network.

If you encounter any issues during this process, refer to your printer’s user manual or contact the printer manufacturer’s support for further assistance.

About the Author

Milan Stanojevic is a technology enthusiast with a passion for solving PC system issues. With years of experience in the field, Milan has become a trusted source for fixes and troubleshooting tips. He has authored numerous articles and guides that have helped millions of users resolve their printer and network errors.

In this article, Milan shares his expertise on fixing the “Printer Cannot be Contacted Over Network” issue. With his detailed instructions and step-by-step methods, you will be able to resolve this problem and get your network printer up and running again.

Whether you’re using a HP LaserJet, Canon printer, or any other wireless printer, Milan’s solutions are designed to match your specific needs. With his guidance, you can overcome network errors and ensure smooth printer operation.

Stay tuned to Milan’s posts for more helpful tips and solutions to various PC issues.

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Mark Ginter is a tech blogger with a passion for all things gadgets and gizmos. A self-proclaimed "geek", Mark has been blogging about technology for over 15 years. His blog, techquack.com, covers a wide range of topics including new product releases, industry news, and tips and tricks for getting the most out of your devices. If you're looking for someone who can keep you up-to-date with all the latest tech news and developments, then be sure to follow him over at Microsoft.