HP DeskJet 4100 Not Printing Problem

The HP DeskJet 4100 series is one of HP’s most popular all-in-one printers, known for its versatility, compact design, and affordability. Designed for both home and small office use, this printer offers seamless wireless printing, scanning, and copying—making it a favorite among students, remote workers, and professionals who rely on efficient day-to-day printing. However, despite its reliability, many users have reported encountering the HP DeskJet 4100 not printing issue.

This frustrating problem often appears in various forms—sometimes the printer simply refuses to respond when you hit “Print,” the print job stays stuck in the queue, or the printer shows as “ready” but remains idle. In other cases, users face more specific challenges like HP DeskJet 4100 not printing black, HP DeskJet 4100 not printing color even though cartridges are full.

Printing failures can disrupt workflows, delay assignments, and waste both time and ink. Understanding why your HP 4100 won’t print and knowing the right HP DeskJet 4100 troubleshooting steps can make a huge difference. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the common causes behind printing problems, preliminary checks to perform, basic and advanced solutions, and preventive tips to ensure your HP DeskJet 4100 stays in perfect working order for years to come.

Common Causes of HP DeskJet 4100 Not Printing Issue

When users face the frustrating HP DeskJet 4100 not printing issue, it’s often due to a combination of hardware, software, or connectivity problems. Understanding these root causes is the first step toward successful HP DeskJet 4100 troubleshooting. Let’s look at the most common reasons your HP 4100 printer not printing as expected.

• Ink Cartridge Issues:

  Many users report HP DeskJet 4100 not printing black or HP DeskJet 4100 not printing color, even when ink levels appear full. This typically happens when cartridges are low, dried out, or incorrectly installed. Non-HP or incompatible cartridges can also trigger recognition errors. To fix HP DeskJet 4100 black ink not printing, always use genuine HP ink and clean the printhead regularly.

• Connectivity Issues (USB or WiFi Problems):

  A major reason behind HP 4100 not printing is improper connectivity. If you’re using a USB connection, a loose or damaged cable can prevent your computer from communicating with the printer. In the case of wireless setups, the HP DeskJet 4100 might lose its WiFi connection or connect to a different network than your computer or mobile device. This mismatch often results in the HP printer 4100 not printing despite showing as “online.” Always ensure both devices share the same network and that the connection is stable.

• Driver or Software Problems:

  Outdated or corrupted printer drivers frequently cause the HP DeskJet 4100 won’t print Using the wrong printer driver, selecting the wrong port, or having conflicting software can also lead to print failures. Keeping your printer drivers updated via HP Smart or the official HP Support site is crucial to prevent software-related glitches.

• Paper Jams or Mechanical Faults:

  Mechanical blockages such as paper jams, carriage jams, or internal debris can cause blinking E3/E4 error lights. These physical obstructions stop print jobs and make it seem like your HP 4100 won’t print. Always inspect the paper path for stuck sheets or foreign objects before resuming printing.

• Firmware or Printer Error States:

  An outdated firmware or a corrupted internal printer state can also cause HP DeskJet 4100 not printing Sometimes the printer enters an error loop after a power outage or interrupted update. Performing a firmware update or a full reset can resolve such hidden issues.

• Print Queue and System Errors:

  Jobs stuck in the print queue, wrong printer selected, or offline printer settings can all stop output. Clearing the queue and reselecting your printer can quickly fix these OS-level errors.

By identifying which of these problems applies to your situation, you can begin targeted HP DeskJet 4100 troubleshooting to restore normal printing performance.

Also Read: HP Envy 6000 Not Printing

Preliminary Checks Before Troubleshooting HP 4100 Printer Not Printing Issue

Before diving deep into complex fixes, it’s essential to perform a few basic checks that can often resolve the HP DeskJet 4100 not printing problem without any advanced intervention. These simple steps can help identify whether the issue lies with the printer hardware, connectivity, or software setup. Performing these initial verifications saves time and can immediately fix many cases where your HP 4100 printer not printing properly.

• Confirm Power and Status Indicators:

  Begin by ensuring that your HP DeskJet 4100 printer is powered on and functioning normally. Look for any blinking error lights on the control panel, as these can signal specific issues such as paper jams, low ink, or connectivity problems. If the printer is in sleep mode, press the power button to wake it up. Many users overlook this basic step when facing the HP 4100 not printing

• Check Connectivity (USB or WiFi):

  Whether you’re using a wired or wireless setup, make sure the printer is properly connected to your computer. For USB connections, verify that the cable is firmly plugged into both the printer and the PC. If using WiFi, ensure the printer is connected to the same network as your computer or mobile device. Network mismatches are a common cause of HP printer 4100 not printing even though it appears online.

• Verify Printer Status on Your Computer:

  Go to “Devices and Printers” (on Windows) or “Printers & Scanners” (on macOS) and ensure that your printer shows as Online. If it’s listed as Offline, right-click and select “Use Printer Online.” This quick action often restores printing functionality when the HP DeskJet 4100 not printing error appears.

• Inspect Ink Cartridges and Paper Tray:

  Open the printer lid and check whether ink cartridges are correctly installed and not running low. If you notice HP DeskJet 4100 black ink not printing or HP DeskJet 4100 not printing color, clean the printhead or replace cartridges with genuine HP ones. Additionally, ensure the paper tray is loaded properly and guides are aligned—paper feed issues can halt printing altogether.

• Clear Print Queue and Restart Devices:

  Sometimes, stuck print jobs in the queue prevent new tasks from processing. Open your print queue, cancel all jobs, and retry printing. Then, restart your printer, computer, and router to refresh all connections—this step frequently resolves the HP DeskJet 4100 troubleshooting process effectively.

• Check Drivers and Print Test Page:

  Make sure the correct driver for the HP DeskJet 4100 series is installed and that your operating system supports it. Finally, print a test page directly from the printer’s control panel. If this page prints correctly, the issue may lie in your computer’s software rather than the printer hardware.

By completing these preliminary checks, you can often identify and fix the reason why your HP 4100 won’t print, saving yourself from unnecessary stress and deeper troubleshooting steps.

You can also go through: HP Envy 7640 Not Printing

Basic Troubleshooting for HP DeskJet 4100 Not Printing Issue

If you’ve completed the preliminary checks and your HP DeskJet 4100 not printing problem persists, it’s time to move on to basic troubleshooting. This section will help you methodically isolate the issue—whether it’s a connectivity, software, or hardware problem.

1. Check Connectivity (USB or Wireless)

Connectivity issues are among the top culprits when dealing with the HP printer 4100 not printing error. Depending on how your printer is connected—USB or WiFi—the solutions differ slightly.

• For USB connections:

  • Ensure the USB cable is securely connected at both ends (printer and computer).
  • Try a different USB port on your computer or use a new cable if possible—faulty connections are a frequent cause of the HP DeskJet 4100 won’t print
  • Confirm that the printer is set to use the USB connection mode. You can verify this in the HP Smart app or within your operating system’s printer settings.

• For wireless (WiFi) connections:

  • On the HP DeskJet 4100 series, confirm that WiFi is enabled (blue wireless light should be on and steady).
  • Both your printer and device (PC, laptop, or mobile) must be connected to the same WiFi network. Many users overlook this and end up with the HP 4100 not printing issue even though the printer appears “online and ready.”
  • If the printer still doesn’t show up, open the HP Smart app and add the printer again. Sometimes, removing and reinstalling it resolves hidden connectivity conflicts.
  • Restart your router, computer, and printer to refresh the network.

If you’ve confirmed proper connectivity and the HP DeskJet 4100 not printing problem continues, proceed to driver and firmware checks.

2. Verify and Update Drivers/Firmware

Outdated or corrupted drivers are a primary cause of HP DeskJet 4100 not printing scenario. The printer driver acts as the bridge between your computer and printer—if it’s broken or outdated, your print jobs can’t process properly.

• Visit HP’s official Support and Driver Download page for the DeskJet 4100 series and download the latest Full Feature Software and Driver Package.
• After installation, restart both your printer and computer. This ensures new driver configurations are applied correctly.
• Next, check for firmware updates—either from the HP Smart app (under Settings → Advanced → Printer Update) or directly from HP’s website. Firmware bugs can sometimes cause your HP 4100 printer not printing or even fail to print color or black ink properly.
• Always complete these updates over a stable network connection, as interruptions can cause firmware corruption.

Keeping drivers and firmware up to date not only resolves the HP DeskJet 4100 won’t print issue but also prevents future printing errors and connectivity problems.

3. Clear Print Queue and Print a Test Page

Another common reason your HP DeskJet 4100 not printing is a stuck print queue. When a document fails to print properly, it can block new jobs from processing.

• On Windows, open Printers & Scanners, select your HP printer, and click Open Queue.
• Cancel all pending or stuck jobs.
• Once the queue is empty, restart your printer and computer.
• Now go back to printer properties and click Print Test Page to check if your printer responds.

If the test page prints successfully, your HP DeskJet 4100 printer is working fine, and the issue likely lies with your document, app, or specific print settings.

4. Check Ink Cartridges and Printhead

A very common complaint is HP DeskJet 4100 not printing black, HP DeskJet 4100 not printing color even when cartridges seem full. These problems often stem from ink cartridge or printhead issues.

Here’s how to check:

• Open the printer lid and gently remove the ink cartridges. Inspect them for any protective tape still covering the ink nozzles—a surprisingly frequent mistake after new cartridge installation.
• Make sure the cartridges are genuine HP products. Third-party or refilled cartridges may not be recognized correctly, causing the HP 4100 not printing error.
• Reinsert the cartridges securely until you hear a click.
• Use the HP Smart app → Tools → Print Quality Tools → Clean Printhead. This built-in utility clears clogged nozzles and restores ink flow.
• If ink levels are low, replace the cartridges with fresh ones.
• Perform a Print Alignment to recalibrate the printhead and improve output accuracy.

If your HP 4100 won’t print or streaky lines after cleaning, repeat the printhead cleaning process two or three times before replacing cartridges.

5. Paper Tray, Paper Size, and Port Settings

Another overlooked factor that triggers the HP DeskJet 4100 not printing problem is incorrect paper or port settings. The printer’s sensors can stop printing if it detects a mismatch between software settings and the physical paper setup.

• Open your printer settings on your computer. Ensure the paper size and type selected in the driver match the paper loaded in the input tray.
• The DeskJet 4100 may display E1/E2 error codes if there’s a paper size mismatch or feed issue. Adjust the tray guides to fit the paper correctly.
• Verify that the correct printer port is selected. For USB users, it should show as “USB Virtual Printer Port,” and for WiFi users, it should list your printer’s IP address.
• Remove any duplicate printer entries from your Devices list. Ghost printers or old connections often cause print jobs to be sent to inactive ports, leading to the HP printer 4100 not printing error.

After correcting these settings, try printing a test page again. If it prints successfully, your HP 4100 won’t print problem was likely due to an incorrect configuration.

By following these basic troubleshooting steps, you can resolve most cases of HP DeskJet 4100 not printing, whether it’s HP DeskJet 4100 not printing black, HP DeskJet 4100 not printing color, or general print failures. If, after completing all these actions, your troubleshooting efforts still don’t resolve the problem, you may be dealing with more advanced hardware or firmware issues—which we’ll address in the Advanced Solutions section next.

You can also read: HP Envy 4520 Not Printing

Advanced Solutions for HP 4100 Printer Not Printing Issue

If the basic fixes didn’t resolve your HP DeskJet 4100 not printing issue, don’t worry—there are more advanced steps that can address deeper system, network, or hardware-related problems. At this stage, your goal is to reset, refresh, or repair key components that may be causing your HP 4100 printer not printing error. These advanced troubleshooting methods go beyond the basics to fully restore printer functionality and eliminate persistent issues such as HP DeskJet 4100 not printing black or HP DeskJet 4100 not printing color.

1. Reset Network Settings or Perform Factory Reset

Sometimes, connectivity or configuration glitches cause your HP printer 4100 not printing over WiFi. Resetting the printer’s network settings can clear these hidden problems.

• To reset wireless settings, press and hold the Cancel (X) and Wireless buttons simultaneously for about 5 seconds until the wireless light starts flashing. This resets all WiFi settings to default.
• Next, open the HP Smart app on your device and reconnect your printer to your WiFi network by following the setup prompts.
• If the issue continues, perform a full factory reset. Refer to your user manual for the exact steps, as it varies slightly by model. A factory reset clears all settings—including WiFi credentials, print history, and preferences—allowing a completely fresh setup.
• After resetting, add the printer again in HP Smart and reconfigure wireless settings.

This step often resolves stubborn HP 4100 not printing issue caused by corrupted internal configurations or outdated wireless credentials.

2. Reinstall or Remove Driver at Root Level

When standard driver updates don’t work, a root-level driver reinstall may be needed to fix the HP DeskJet 4100 not printing problem. Corrupted drivers or leftover installation files can block communication between your printer and computer.

• Go to Control Panel → Programs & Features, locate any HP DeskJet 4100 software, and uninstall it completely.
• Next, open the Run dialog (Windows + R), type printui.exe /s, and press Enter.
• In the Drivers tab, remove all entries related to the DeskJet 4100 series.
• Restart your computer to clear any cached configurations.
• Finally, download the latest full-feature driver from HP’s official support page and reinstall it.

This process ensures a clean slate and often fixes problems where your HP 4100 printer not printing, or the printer fails to respond even though it’s detected.

3. Update Router Firmware and Check Network Interference

If you’re printing wirelessly and still facing the HP DeskJet 4100 not printing issue, the problem might not be with the printer—but your router or network.

• Log into your router’s admin panel and update its firmware to the latest version. Old router firmware can cause frequent disconnections, making your HP DeskJet 4100 won’t print wirelessly.
• Ensure your printer is connected to the 2.4GHz WiFi band, as most HP printers don’t support 5GHz networks.
• Assign a static IP address to the printer via your router’s DHCP settings. This prevents the IP from changing, ensuring the computer always connects to the correct printer.
• If your home or office has many connected devices, interference may occur. Move your printer closer to the router or away from obstacles to test the connection stability.

Proper network optimization significantly improves the reliability of wireless printing and helps avoid recurring HP printer 4100 not printing issue.

4. Check Printer Hardware and Error Codes

Sometimes, mechanical or hardware faults can be the hidden cause behind the HP DeskJet 4100 not printing or blank page issue.

• If your printer makes noises but no paper comes out, inspect for paper jams or carriage jams. Remove any jammed sheets carefully from both input and output trays.
• Look for E3 or E4 error codes on the printer’s control panel—these typically indicate jammed or obstructed parts.
• Examine the underside of the output tray, rollers, and paper path for small debris, labels, or tape fragments that might block sensors.
• If you continue to see blinking lights or error indicators after clearing jams, the issue could be mechanical—such as a carriage assembly or logic board fault. In this case, contact HP Support for professional service.

Addressing these mechanical factors ensures your printer operates smoothly and prevents repeated HP DeskJet 4100 not printing black or paper feed errors.

5. Use HP Print Diagnostics Tools

HP provides several built-in diagnostic tools that can automatically detect and repair issues related to printing, connectivity, and ink system performance.

• Open the HP Smart app, go to Printer Settings → Diagnostics or Troubleshooting Tools, and run the recommended tests.
• You can also access the HP Print and Scan Doctor tool from HP’s support website. It scans for connectivity issues, driver errors, or printer spooler problems.
• Run alignment pages, clean printhead cycles, and test pages to identify deeper issues causing HP DeskJet 4100 not printing color or HP DeskJet 4100 not printing black.

By applying these advanced solutions, you can overcome stubborn HP DeskJet 4100 not printing problems that persist even after basic troubleshooting.

Also Read: HP DeskJet 2700 Not Printing

Preventive Tips to Avoid HP DeskJet 4100 Not Printing Issue in Future

Preventing the HP DeskJet 4100 not printing issue is far easier than troubleshooting it after it occurs. With proper maintenance, careful usage, and regular updates, you can ensure consistent performance and extend the life of your printer. Below are essential preventive measures to help you avoid problems like HP DeskJet 4100 not printing black, HP DeskJet 4100 not printing color, or the common HP 4100 printer not printing error altogether.

• Keep Software and Firmware Updated:

  Always ensure your printer’s drivers and firmware are up to date. Outdated firmware is one of the leading causes of the HP DeskJet 4100 not printing Regularly check the HP Smart app or HP’s support website for updates—these updates often include fixes for bugs that could lead to the HP 4100 not printing or connection issues.

• Use Genuine HP Ink Cartridges:

  Avoid using low-quality or non-HP cartridges, as they can cause print quality issues and even result in HP DeskJet 4100 black ink not printing Genuine HP ink cartridges are optimized for your printer model and ensure smooth, clog-free printing with accurate color reproduction.

• Maintain a Stable Network Connection:

  If you print wirelessly, keep your printer on a consistent WiFi network. Frequent changes in WiFi or router resets can lead to disconnections and HP 4100 won’t print Assigning a static IP address to your printer can also prevent communication errors.

• Proper Paper Handling and Cleaning:

  Load paper correctly, avoid mixing different sizes, and never overfill the input tray. Clean the paper path regularly to remove dust or debris, as this can cause paper jams that mimic the HP printer 4100 not printing

• Regular Use and Proper Shutdown:

  If your printer is idle for long periods, run a small print job periodically to keep the printhead active and prevent ink from drying. Always power off the printer using its power button instead of unplugging it, as abrupt shutdowns can disrupt firmware, leading to HP 4100 Printer not printing issue.

• Manage Print Queue and Relocation Settings:

  Clear pending print jobs regularly and uninstall/reinstall printer drivers after moving the printer to a new network or location. Backup important settings—such as WiFi credentials and static IPs—for quick restoration.

By following these preventive practices, you can significantly reduce the chances of facing HP DeskJet 4100 not printing issues and ensure your printer runs efficiently for years to come.

FAQs

Q1. Why is my HP DeskJet 4100 not printing even though it’s connected and shows online?

• A. This usually happens due to driver issues, print queue errors, or network disconnections. Start by checking your WiFi or USB connection, clear any stuck print jobs, and run the HP DeskJet 4100 troubleshooting tool in the HP Smart app. Reinstalling the printer driver can also fix the problem quickly.

Q2. What should I do if my HP DeskJet 4100 not printing black ink?

• A. When your HP 4100 printer not printing black ink, it’s often caused by clogged printheads or low ink levels. Run the Clean Printhead utility in HP Smart, check the ink cartridge levels, and make sure you’re using genuine HP ink cartridges. Replacing dried or expired cartridges usually resolves the HP DeskJet 4100 black ink not printing problem.

Q3. Why does my HP Envy 5530 not print from my phone?

• A. When printing from mobile, make sure your phone and printer are connected to the same WiFi network. Reconnect the printer via the HP Smart app and try re-adding it if the connection fails. Despite this, if the printer does not print, go through our comprehensive blog on HP Envy 5530 Not Printing problem and get quick and easy solution for the issue.

Q4. My HP 4100 printer not printing color pages — how do I fix it?

• A. If your HP DeskJet 4100 not printing color, the color cartridge might be empty or misaligned. Remove and reinstall the cartridges, clean the printhead, and perform an alignment test from the HP Smart app. Using compatible ink and updated firmware often restores color printing.

Q5. Why does my HP 4100 not printing wirelessly even though it’s connected to WiFi?

• A. This issue is typically caused by network interference or mismatched connections. Ensure both your printer and computer are connected to the same 2.4GHz WiFi network. If necessary, reset the printer’s wireless settings (press and hold the Cancel + Wireless buttons for 5 seconds) and reconnect via HP Smart.

Q6. Why won’t my HP Envy 4500 print wirelessly?

• A. When your HP Envy 4500 won’t print over WiFi, the issue is often due to a lost connection. Reset wireless settings by pressing Wireless + Cancel for 5 seconds, then reconnect through the HP Smart app. If the issue persists, you can read our dedicated blog on HP Envy 4500 Not Printing issue and get it resolved quickly.

Q7. How do I clear a print queue that causes my HP DeskJet 4100 troubleshooting issues?

• A. Open Printers & Scanners, select your HP printer, and click Open Queue. Cancel all pending jobs, then restart your printer and computer. A clogged queue often prevents new jobs from processing and is a common reason for HP 4100 printer not printing problem.

Conclusion

The HP DeskJet 4100 series remains one of HP’s most reliable and efficient all-in-one printers for everyday use. However, even dependable devices can encounter issues like the HP DeskJet 4100 not printing, HP DeskJet 4100 not printing black, or HP DeskJet 4100 not printing color. These printing failures are quite common and are usually linked to simple causes such as connectivity issues, outdated drivers, low ink cartridges, or network problems. The good news is that most of these issues are completely fixable with the right troubleshooting approach.

By following a systematic process, you can identify and resolve HP 4100 printer not printing problem. Start with the preliminary checks—ensuring power, ink, and connection stability—then move on to basic troubleshooting, such as clearing print queues or updating drivers. If the issue of HP 4100 not printing persists, the advanced solutions like resetting network settings, reinstalling drivers at the root level, or running diagnostics will usually restore full functionality.

It’s equally important to remember that prevention is key. Regular firmware updates, using genuine HP cartridges, and keeping your printer on a stable network can prevent most HP DeskJet 4100 troubleshooting situations from occurring in the first place.

With consistent maintenance and a step-by-step approach, you can get your printer back in action quickly and avoid future problems like HP 4100 won’t print or HP DeskJet 4100 black ink not printing. Ultimately, a little attention today ensures smoother, uninterrupted printing tomorrow.

For more information regarding HP Printers and other issues and solutions for it, go to our HP Printer Support page.