HP OfficeJet Pro 8620 Printer Disappeared on Kubuntu 24.04 - Fixed!
Imagine running your HP OfficeJet Pro 8620 printer seamlessly on your Kubuntu system for years, only to suddenly find it missing from your list of available printers. This article will walk you through the steps I took to resolve this issue after reinstalling the CUPS package on my Kubuntu 24.04 system.
1. Understanding the problem
Common Unix Printing System (CUPS) provides a framework for managing printers in Unix-like operating systems such as Kubuntu. Sometimes, the CUPS package might need reinstallation, causing the printer to no longer appear in the list of available printers. In some cases, the printer may still function if you add it back manually.
2. Checking the CUPS interface
Access the CUPS web interface using your preferred browser and visit the following URL:
http://localhost:631
This interface will allow you to view your current printers. If your HP OfficeJet Pro 8620 printer is missing from the list as well as in the system settings, continue with the following steps.
3. Reinstalling the CUPS package
You may have recently updated or upgraded your Kubuntu system. In that case, the CUPS package might have also been updated or changed. Reinstall the CUPS package to ensure it is functioning correctly by executing the following commands:
sudo apt-get update
sudo apt-get install --reinstall cups
4. Adding back your HP OfficeJet Pro 8620 printer
After reinstalling CUPS, it is time to add your HP OfficeJet Pro 8620 printer back:
- Go to the Kubuntu system settings.
- Search for "printers" and open the "Printers" module.
- Click the "Add" button.
- Follow the wizard prompts to add your HP OfficeJet Pro 8620 printer manually.
You'll need the printer's IP address or its USB location to complete this process. If you are unsure of the IP address, consult your printer's user manual or refer to your router for a list of connected devices.
5. Verifying printer functionality
After successfully adding the printer back, attempt to print a test page. If the test page is printed successfully, you have resolved the issue! If not, continue reading for further troubleshooting steps.
6. Installing additional drivers or dependencies
In some cases, additional drivers or dependencies might be required for full HP OfficeJet Pro 8620 functionality. These packages can be installed with the following commands:
sudo apt-get install hplip
sudo apt-get install cups-filters
Once these packages are installed, remove and re-add the HP OfficeJet Pro 8620 printer as mentioned earlier.
- Understanding the problem
- Checking the CUPS interface
- Reinstalling the CUPS package
- Adding back your HP OfficeJet Pro 8620 printer
- Verifying printer functionality
- Installing additional drivers or dependencies
References
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Title: CUPS - Common Unix Printing System
Type: Online resource
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Title: hplip - HP Linux Imaging and Printing
Type: Online resource