When troubleshooting a printer, what common issue should be checked first?

When troubleshooting a printer, the first step should be to ensure it is powered on and connected to the network. This is fundamental because if the printer isn’t receiving power or isn’t connected to the network (especially in a wireless or networked environment), it cannot perform any tasks, including receiving print jobs.

If a printer is not powered on, it will obviously not function, and if it isn’t properly connected to the network, it won’t be available for devices trying to print to it. This makes connectivity and power status the most logical starting points in diagnosing any issues with printer operation. Once these fundamental aspects are confirmed to be operational, further investigation can be directed at other potential issues such as paper jams, driver updates, or ink levels.