Printers going offline is a common issue that can disrupt your workflow, especially when you're in the middle of an important task. If your Xerox printer has gone offline on your Mac, there’s no need to panic. This guide will walk you through the steps to get your Xerox printer back online quickly and efficiently. Whether the issue is related to connectivity, software, or simple settings, we’ll cover it all.

Why Does a Xerox Printer Go Offline?

Several factors can cause your Xerox printer to go offline on a Mac, including:

Network Connectivity Issues: If the printer is connected wirelessly, any interruption in the Wi-Fi connection can cause it to go offline.

Incorrect Printer Settings: Sometimes, the printer is set to "Offline" mode accidentally.

Outdated or Corrupt Drivers: Drivers that are outdated or corrupted can prevent your printer from functioning correctly.

Printer Queue Issues: A stuck print job in the queue can also lead to the printer appearing offline.

Step-by-Step Guide to Get Your Xerox Printer Back Online

Step 1: Check the Printer’s Connection

Making sure your printer is correctly connected to your Mac is the first step.

For Wired Printers:

Check that the USB cable is securely connected to both your Mac and the printer.

Try a different USB port on your Mac if the connection seems loose.

For Wireless Printers:

Ensure that your Xerox printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Mac.

Restart your router and printer to get the connection back.

Verify Network Connection:

On your printer’s control panel, navigate to the network settings to check the Wi-Fi status.

If the printer is not connected, reconnect it to the network by following the on-screen instructions.

Step 2: Set the Printer to "Online" Mode

Sometimes, printers are set to "Offline" mode accidentally. Here's how to change it:

Access Printer Settings on Mac:

Click on the Apple menu and go to "System Preferences."

Select "Printers & Scanners."

Check Printer Status:

In the "Printers & Scanners" window, find your Xerox printer in the list on the left side.

When you perform a right-click on a printer that has the status "Offline," choose "Set as Default Printer."

Bring the Printer Online:

Right-click the printer again and choose "Resume" or "Use Printer Online" if available.

Step 3: Clear the Print Queue

A jammed or stuck print job can prevent your printer from coming back online. Clearing the print queue can resolve this issue.

Open Print Queue:

In "Printers & Scanners," select your Xerox printer and click on "Open Print Queue."

Clear Pending Jobs:

If there are any print jobs listed, click on the "X" next to each job to cancel them.

Try printing again after the queue has cleared.

Step 4: Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers

Older or damaged drivers may cause your printer to stop working. Updating or reinstalling the drivers can fix the problem.

Download the Latest Drivers:

Visit the Xerox Support website and enter your printer model.

Download the latest driver for your Mac.

Install the Driver:

Launch the file you downloaded and follow the on-screen instructions to install the driver.

Restart your Mac after installation.

Re-add the Printer:

Go to "Printers & Scanners" in "System Preferences."

If your printer is already listed, remove it by selecting the "-" button, then re-add it using the "+" button.

Select your Xerox printer from the list of available printers and follow the prompts to complete the setup.

Step 5: Reset the Printing System

If all else fails, resetting the printing system can help. This will remove all printers from your Mac and reset the printing preferences.

Reset the Printing System:

In "Printers & Scanners," right-click (or Control-click) on the list of printers on the left.

Select "Reset printing system."

Re-add Your Printer:

After resetting, click the "+" button to re-add your Xerox printer.

Follow the prompts to complete the setup.

Troubleshooting Tips

Check for Software Updates: Make sure the operating system on your Mac is current. Sometimes, compatibility issues between macOS and the printer driver can cause problems.

Power Cycle the Printer: The printer should be turned off, unplugged from the power supply, and left for 30 seconds before being replugged and turned on. Many problems can be solved with this easy procedure.

Check for Firmware Updates: Visit the Xerox website to see if there are any firmware updates available for your printer model. The firmware can be updated to address issues and enhance performance.

FAQs

After completing these procedures, what should I do if my printer is still offline?

If your Xerox printer is still offline, try connecting it to another computer to determine if the issue is with the printer or your Mac. 

Can I connect my Xerox printer to a different Wi-Fi network?

Yes, you can connect your Xerox printer to a different Wi-Fi network by accessing the network settings on the printer’s control panel and selecting the new network.

How do I know if my printer’s firmware is outdated?

Check the printer’s settings menu for the current firmware version, then visit the Xerox support website to compare it with the latest version available.

What if my Mac is not recognizing the printer at all?

Try resetting the printing system (as described above) and ensure that your printer is properly connected to your network or via USB. 

Can I print from my mobile device if my printer is offline on my Mac?

If your Xerox printer is connected to Wi-Fi, you can still print from your mobile device using the Xerox Print & Scan app, even if your Mac is having trouble.

Conclusion

Getting your Xerox printer back online on a Mac doesn't have to be a frustrating experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can quickly resolve most offline issues and restore your printer’s functionality. Whether it’s a connection issue, outdated drivers, or simply a stuck print job, these troubleshooting methods should get your printer back online in no time.