How to Fix HP Printer Network Printer Showing Error State on Windows?

HP printers are widely used for their reliability and efficiency in home and office environments. However, Windows users sometimes encounter a “Printer Showing Error State” message when attempting to print over a network. This error can interrupt printing tasks and reduce productivity.

What Causes HP Printer to Show Error State on Windows?

Before fixing the issue, it’s important to understand why HP printers show an error state:

Network connectivity problems: Weak Wi-Fi or disconnected Ethernet cables.
Outdated or incompatible drivers: Old printer drivers can cause communication errors.
Pending print jobs: Stuck documents in the print queue.
Incorrect printer settings: Offline mode or wrong default printer selection.
Firmware or software issues: Outdated firmware or corrupted HP software.

Understanding the root cause helps in applying the right solution efficiently.

Step 1: Check Network Connection

Ensure your HP printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Windows PC.
For wired connections, verify the Ethernet cable is securely connected.
Restart your router and printer to refresh the network connection.

A stable network connection is crucial for the printer to communicate properly with Windows.

Step 2: Update HP Printer Drivers

Outdated drivers are a common reason for the printer error state. To update:

Open Device Manager on Windows.
Locate your HP printer under Printers or Print queues.
Right-click the printer and select Update driver.
Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.

Alternatively, download the latest drivers from the HP Support website.

Step 3: Clear Print Queue

A clogged print queue can trigger error messages:

Open Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
Right-click your HP printer and select See what’s printing.
Cancel all pending documents.
Restart the printer and try printing again.

This ensures no stuck jobs are preventing the printer from working properly.

Step 4: Reinstall HP Printer Software

If driver updates don’t work, reinstalling HP software can fix corruption issues:

Go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
Uninstall the HP printer software.
Download the latest HP printer software from the official HP website.
Install the software and follow on-screen instructions.

Reinstalling often resolves deeper software conflicts and restores printer functionality.

Step 5: Check Printer Settings

Sometimes, incorrect settings can trigger the error:

Ensure the printer is set as Default Printer.
Right-click the printer, choose See what’s printing, then uncheck Use Printer Offline.
Confirm the printer’s IP address matches your network.

Proper configuration ensures smooth communication between Windows and your HP printer.

Step 6: Run Windows Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in printer troubleshooter:

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
Select Printer and click Run the troubleshooter.
Follow the instructions to identify and fix network or software issues.

This automated tool can quickly detect common problems and suggest solutions.

Step 7: Update Printer Firmware

Firmware updates can resolve network and software errors:

Open HP Smart or HP Printer Assistant on your PC.
Check for firmware updates under Settings > Printer Updates.
Install the update and restart the printer.

Regular firmware updates keep your printer compatible with Windows updates and network protocols.

Step 8: Contact HP Customer Support

If none of the above steps work, HP customer support can help:

Use HP Support Assistant to submit an online ticket.
Call HP support for guided troubleshooting.
Provide printer model, Windows version, and error details.

HP support can help with persistent error states, warranty claims, or advanced network troubleshooting.

Tips for Preventing HP Printer Error State

Regularly update drivers and firmware.
Keep the printer connected to a stable network.
Avoid overloading the print queue.
Periodically restart your printer and PC.
Use genuine HP ink and cartridges for consistent performance.

Conclusion

Fixing an HP printer showing error state on Windows involves checking the network, updating drivers and firmware, clearing the print queue, and verifying settings. Reinstalling HP software or using Windows troubleshooter can often resolve the issue. For persistent problems, HP customer support is the best resource. Regular maintenance and updates can prevent this error and keep your printer running smoothly.