Troubleshooting Printer Issues in Windows XP

Printers from various manufacturers, such as Canon, HP and others, are used with the Windows XP operating system from Microsoft. When your printer begins to malfunction, you will need to troubleshoot to fix the problem. This can involve using more than one process, depending on the severity of the problem. You can troubleshoot printer issues in Windows XP by using the Printer Help option in your computer's operating system or the Printer Troubleshooter, which is accessible through its Control Panel.
Difficulty:
Moderately Easy
Instructions
Windows XP Printer Help
1
Click the Start button and then select the Printers and Faxes option.
2
Click the Help drop-down menu and select the Help and Support Center option.
3
Find and select the "Fixing a printing problem" option. Alternatively, you can type a search term into the text box and press the "Enter" key.
4
Select the "Fixing a printing problem" option that most accurately describes your issue or problem.
Using Printer Troubleshooter
1
Click the Start button and then go into the Control Panel. Double-click the "Printers and Faxes" icon.
2
Click the Help drop down menu and select the option for "Help and Support Center."
3
Find and select the option for "Fixing a printer problem." Click the "Printer Troubleshooter" option that is in the right panel.
4
Find and click on the option that best describes your problem or issue and then click the "Next" button to continue.
5
Repeat step 4 until you have corrected the problem.
Tips & Warnings
Go to the manufacturer's web site for your printer and download the latest software driver for Windows XP.
For additional guidance, visit the Help and Support for printing in Microsoft Windows XP.
References
Microsoft: Resources for troubleshooting printer issues in Windows XP
Microsoft: Help and support for printing in Microsoft Windows XP
Resources
Microsoft: Help and Support