HP printers are widely used for home, office, and business printing due to their reliability, wireless connectivity, and advanced printing features. However, many users face an issue where their HP printer is not printing from Microsoft Word, even though it may print from other applications.
This issue can be caused by driver problems, Word settings, printer configuration errors, outdated software, or HP account activation issues.
Why Is My HP Printer Not Printing from Microsoft Word?
If your HP printer is not working with Microsoft Word, the problem may be related to:
- Incorrect printer selection in Word
- Corrupted Word files
- Outdated HP printer drivers
- HP printer not activated or configured properly
- Print spooler service errors
- HP Smart app login issues
- Network connectivity problems
- Pending Windows or HP updates
Identifying the root cause is important before applying the correct fix.
Check Default Printer Settings in Microsoft Word
Sometimes Microsoft Word sends the document to a different printer.
Steps to fix this issue:
- Open Microsoft Word.
- Click on File > Print.
- Check if your HP printer is selected as the default printer.
- If not, select your HP printer from the dropdown menu.
- Click Print again.
Also, make sure your HP printer is set as the default printer in Windows settings.
Restart HP Printer and Computer
A simple restart can fix temporary glitches.
- Turn off your HP printer.
- Unplug it from the power source.
- Restart your computer.
- Plug the printer back in and turn it on.
- Try printing from Microsoft Word again.
This clears minor system conflicts between Word and the HP printer.
Login and Activate HP Printer Using HP Smart App
If your HP printer is connected via Wi-Fi, ensure it is properly logged in and activated.
How to Login to HP Account:
- Open the HP Smart App.
- Sign in using your HP account credentials.
- If you don’t have an account, complete the signup process.
- Verify your email and activate your printer.
Activation ensures full communication between your printer and Microsoft Word.
Download and Install Latest HP Printer Drivers
Outdated drivers are one of the most common reasons why HP printers stop printing from Word.
Steps to Update Drivers:
- Open Device Manager.
- Locate your HP printer.
- Right-click and select Update Driver.
- Choose automatic update.
Alternatively, reinstall the printer:
- Remove the printer from Devices & Printers.
- Restart your computer.
- Download and install the latest HP printer software.
- Complete installation and reconnect the printer.
Updated drivers fix compatibility issues between Microsoft Word and HP printers.
Check Microsoft Word for Corruption Issues
Sometimes the issue is not with the printer but with Word itself.
Fix Word Printing Errors:
- Try printing a different document.
- Copy content into a new Word file and print.
- Repair Microsoft Office from Control Panel.
- Update Microsoft Word to the latest version.
If Word files are corrupted, the HP printer may not respond.
Restart Print Spooler Service
The Print Spooler manages print jobs. If it stops working, printing fails.
Restart Print Spooler:
- Press Windows + R.
- Type services.msc and press Enter.
- Locate Print Spooler.
- Right-click and choose Restart.
After restarting, try printing again from Microsoft Word.
Run HP Printer Troubleshooting Tool
Windows includes a built-in printer troubleshooter.
- Go to Settings.
- Select Update & Security.
- Click Troubleshoot.
- Choose Printer.
- Run the troubleshooter.
This automatically detects and fixes HP printer not working issues.
Check HP Printer Network Connection
If you are using a wireless HP printer:
- Ensure Wi-Fi is connected.
- Restart your router.
- Confirm printer and computer are on the same network.
- Reconnect using HP Smart setup.
Network interruptions can stop Microsoft Word from sending print jobs.
Update Windows Operating System
Outdated Windows updates can cause compatibility problems.
- Go to Settings.
- Click Windows Update.
- Check for updates.
- Install pending updates.
- Restart your computer.
Keeping Windows updated ensures smooth communication between HP printer and Microsoft Word.
Reset HP Printer to Fix Not Working Error
If nothing works, perform a printer reset:
- Turn off the printer.
- Disconnect power cable.
- Wait 60 seconds.
- Reconnect and turn it on.
Resetting clears internal memory errors that block print commands.
HP Customer Support and Service Assistance
If your HP printer still does not print from Microsoft Word:
- Contact HP customer support.
- Schedule HP printer service.
- Use HP virtual assistant for troubleshooting.
- Check warranty status.
- Get remote technical assistance.
HP service experts can resolve hardware-related printing problems.
Prevent HP Printer Printing Issues in Future
To avoid future problems:
- Regularly update HP drivers.
- Keep Microsoft Word updated.
- Perform routine printer maintenance.
- Use original HP ink cartridges.
- Keep printer firmware updated.
- Maintain stable Wi-Fi connection.
Proper maintenance improves printer performance and prevents printing failures.
Conclusion
If your HP printer is not printing from Microsoft Word, the issue may be related to printer settings, drivers, Word software, network problems, or activation errors. By following the steps above — including login setup, driver download, installation, troubleshooting, updates, and service options — you can quickly restore printing functionality.
Regular updates, proper setup, and HP account activation ensure smooth performance between Microsoft Word and your HP printer. If problems persist, HP customer support can provide professional assistance to resolve the issue efficiently.
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