If your printer is stuck in “Offline” mode despite being properly connected and powered on, the issue may not lie with the printer itself. A common, often overlooked cause is your computer’s security software, such as antivirus programs or firewalls, which may unintentionally block the connection.
This guide will explain how your security settings might interfere with printer communication and provide simple steps to restore functionality — all without needing to uninstall any software or drivers.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with any specific printer or software brand. For model-specific information or troubleshooting, please refer to the official website of your printer manufacturer. We do not offer software downloads, remote access, or technical services.
🔍 Why Security Software Might Block Your Printer
Antivirus programs and firewalls are designed to protect your computer by managing network traffic. However, they may mistakenly flag your printer’s communication as a potential threat, especially if it’s connected via Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
Common Signs:
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The printer worked previously but now shows as “Offline” after a system or security software update.
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You can access the printer’s IP address in a browser, but you can’t print.
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Printing works temporarily after disabling the firewall or antivirus.
🧪 Step 1: Temporarily Disable Security Software (For Testing)
Note: This step is for testing purposes only. Make sure to re-enable your security software immediately after testing.
A. Windows Defender Firewall
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Go to Start > Settings > Privacy & Security (or Update & Security).
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Click Windows Security > Firewall & Network Protection.
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Select your current network (Private or Public).
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Turn Microsoft Defender Firewall to Off.
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Try printing a document.
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Turn the firewall back on immediately after testing.
B. Third-Party Antivirus or Firewalls
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Right-click the antivirus icon in your system tray.
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Select an option to pause or disable protection (e.g., “Pause Protection”).
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Try printing.
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Re-enable protection once testing is complete.
🔧 Step 2: Add a Firewall Exception in Windows
If disabling the firewall allowed printing, you can set up a permanent exception to prevent future issues:
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Go to Start > Settings > Windows Security > Firewall & Network Protection.
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Click Allow an app through firewall.
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Click Change settings.
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Find your printer software in the list and enable both Private and Public network checkboxes.
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If the printer software is missing, click Allow another app > Browse, and select your printer’s main application.
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Save the changes and restart your computer.
🔐 Step 3: Configure Exceptions in Third-Party Security Software
For third-party antivirus or firewall software, follow these steps:
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Open your security application and locate the Firewall, Network Protection, or Exceptions section.
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Add your printer’s IP address to the allow list.
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Allow access to printer-related applications (e.g., print monitor or spooler).
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If available, manually allow the following common printer ports:
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TCP 9100 (Raw printing)
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TCP 631 (IPP)
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TCP 515 (LPD)
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UDP 161/162 (SNMP)
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Refer to your printer’s manual or official website for detailed port information.
🏠 Step 4: Set Network Profile to “Private”
Ensure that your computer recognizes your network as Private (for home or office use) rather than Public to ensure smoother device communication:
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Go to Start > Settings > Network & Internet.
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Click on Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
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Select your current network.
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Set the Network profile to Private.
✅ Final Thoughts
While security software is crucial for protecting your system, it can sometimes block printers from working correctly. By performing a quick test and adjusting your firewall settings, you can usually resolve the “Offline” issue and restore printing functionality without needing to reinstall any drivers or software.