What are the initial troubleshooting steps to resolve the 'cannot set default printer' error?

When facing the 'cannot set default printer' error, start with basic checks: 1. **Restart your computer and printer:** This can often clear temporary glitches. 2. **Check physical connections:** Ensure the printer cable (USB or Ethernet) is securely connected and the printer is powered on. 3. **Verify printer status:** Make sure the printer is not offline or in an error state. 4. **Try setting a different printer as default:** If another printer works, it might indicate an issue specific to the problematic printer. 5. **Run the Windows Printer Troubleshooter:** Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters, then run the Printer troubleshooter.