When your printer stops working, resetting it can often solve the problem. Whether it’s acting up, showing strange messages, or just refusing to print, a quick reset might be all you need.
But how exactly do you reset a printer the right way?
Let’s walk through the most common types of resets and how to perform them safely.
Basic Restart
This is the simplest type of reset and often clears minor glitches or frozen print jobs.
Steps to follow:
- Turn off the printer using the power button.
- Unplug it from the power source.
- Wait about 30 seconds.
- Plug it back in and turn it on again.
This basic reset can fix many everyday issues like unresponsive buttons or print jobs stuck in the queue.
Reset to Default Settings
If your printer settings are causing trouble—like network problems or miscommunication with your device—you may need to restore factory settings.
How to do it (general steps):
- Go to the printer’s control panel or display screen.
- Navigate to the settings or tools menu.
- Look for an option like “Restore Defaults,” “Factory Reset,” or “Reset All Settings.”
- Confirm the reset when prompted.
Note: This will erase custom settings, including Wi-Fi connections, saved preferences, and paper size adjustments.
Resetting the Network Settings
If your printer isn’t connecting to Wi-Fi or is linked to the wrong network, resetting only the network settings can help.
Steps to reset network settings:
- Open the printer menu and go to Network or Wireless Settings.
- Find the “Reset Network Settings” option.
- Confirm the reset.
Afterward, you’ll need to reconnect your printer to the Wi-Fi network.
When to Reset a Printer
Resetting your printer can help with:
- Connectivity problems
- Unresponsive controls
- Wrong print settings
- Ongoing error messages
However, if you’re still facing issues after a reset, it may be time to check the hardware or contact customer.
Final Thoughts
Resetting your printer is a simple but powerful way to fix many common problems. Whether it’s a basic restart or a full factory reset, these steps can help you get back to printing in no time. Just make sure to note any custom settings before you reset, so you can restore them easily afterward.
Need more easy troubleshooting tips? Check out our next guide for fixing print quality issues!
