In general, the most common reason for a MacBook coming up with “Printer is offline” error is due connection between the Mac & Printer being broken due to the printer being in sleep mode, loose cables and Wi-Fi connectivity issues.
In addition to this, printer related problems on a MacBook can also be caused due to outdated drivers, the previous print job being stuck or the print que being paused.
Printer is Offline Error On Mac
If you are unable to print on Mac, due to printer becoming offline or printer not responding to print commands, you should be able to fix the problem using the following methods.
1. Make Sure the Printer is Ready to Print
The first step would be to rule out the possibility of the Printer being switched off, disconnected from the power source or being in sleep mode.
Also, make sure that there is enough paper available in Input Tray of the Printer and check the Printer panel for presence of error codes or messages.
If the Printer is in Sleep Mode or has become switched-off, press the Power button to switch it ON or wake it from deep sleep mode.
2. Power Flush the Printer
The next step would be Restart the Printer, to rule out the potential possibility of the problem being caused due to a temporary software glitch.
1. Pull out the plug from power socket or use the Power button to power off the Printer.
2. Wait for 60 seconds > Restart the printer and patiently wait until it is ready to print.
After the printer restarts, try to print something. If you still see “Printer is offline” error, move to the next step.
3. Reset Printing System
Most printer related problems, including “Printer is offline” error can be fixed by using the option to “Reset Printing system” as available on Mac.
A Printer System Reset will remove the offline Printer from Mac, allowing you to make a fresh start by adding the Printer back to your device.
Note: Resetting the printing system clears all printing queues, printers settings, clears all pending print Jobs and removes all printers and scanners that were added to Mac.
1. Click on Apple Logo in the top-menu bar and select System Settings in the drop-down menu.
2. From the Settings screen, go to Printer and Scanners > right-click on the offline Printer and click on Reset Printing System option in the right-click menu.
3. On the pop-up, click on the Reset option to confirm.
Note: You may be prompted to enter your Admin User ID and Password.
4. After this, go to System Settings > select Printers & Scanners in the left-pane and click on Add Printer button in the right-pane.
If you are using an older version of macOS, click on the Plus Icon to open Add Printer dialogue box.
5. If prompted, enter your Admin User Name and password to authorize this change.
6. On Add Printers screen, select the Printer that you want to Add to Mac.
7. Once the Printer is selected, click on the Add button to Add the Printer to your MacBook.