In today’s fast-paced world, where technology plays a pivotal role in our daily lives, few things are as frustrating as encountering an error message when trying to print an important document. Windows 11, the latest operating system from Microsoft, has brought about many exciting features and improvements.
However, like any technology, it is not without its flaws. One of the common issues that Windows 11 users face is the dreaded “printer spooler not running” error.
But fret not, dear reader, for in this article, we will explore various solutions to overcome this hurdle. From simple troubleshooting steps to diving into the depths of the Services console and Command Prompt, we’ll equip you with the knowledge to address the issue head-on.
So, let us embark on this journey together and triumph over the vexing problem of Windows 11 printer spooler errors!
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Common Causes Of Windows 11 Print Spooler Errors
Print spooler errors in Windows 11 can occur due to various reasons. Some common causes of these errors include:
1. Tasks Overload: When there are too many print jobs in the queue or the print spooler is overwhelmed with multiple tasks, it may stop running.
2. Conflicts with Other Aspects of the Operating System: Certain conflicts or issues with other components of Windows 11 can affect the print spooler service and cause it to stop running.
3. Outdated Drivers, Apps, or Windows 11 Versions: If the printer drivers, apps, or the Windows 11 version itself are outdated, it can lead to compatibility issues and result in print spooler errors.
Solutions For Windows 11 Printer Spooler Not Running Issue
To address the issue of Windows 11 printer spooler not running, you can try the following solutions:
1. Restart Windows 11: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary glitches and restart the print spooler service.
2. Download and Install the Latest Windows 11 Update: Keeping your operating system up to date can fix bugs and bring improvements, including fixes for print spooler issues.
3. Update Windows 11 Apps: If you encounter print spooler errors with a specific app, check for updates for that app.
Updating the app may resolve the issue.
4. Run the Printer Troubleshooter in Windows 11 Settings: Windows 11 provides a built-in troubleshooter specifically for printer-related problems.
Running it can automatically detect and fix issues with the print spooler.
5. Stop, Start, and Reset the Windows 11 Print Spooler: You can manually stop the print spooler service, clear any pending print jobs, and start the service again to reset it.
6. Clear the Print Queue: Removing all print jobs from the print queue can eliminate any jammed or corrupted print files that may be causing the print spooler to crash.
7. Try Using Another App for Printing: If the issue persists with a particular app, try using a different app for printing to see if the problem lies with the original application.
8. Remove Any Additional Printers: If you have multiple printers connected to your Windows 11 device, disconnect the additional printers temporarily to see if the print spooler starts running correctly.
9. Remove the Printer and Add It Again: Removing the printer from your Windows 11 system and then adding it back can refresh the settings and potentially resolve any issues with the print spooler.
10. Update Printer Drivers: Outdated or incompatible printer drivers can cause print spooler errors.
Updating the drivers to the latest version can help resolve the issue.
11. Additional Advanced Solutions: If the above methods do not work, you can try using Windows Compatibility Mode or resetting the spooler registry keys.
These advanced techniques are recommended for experienced users.
Step-By-Step Instructions For Fixing Windows 11 Print Spooler Issue
To fix the print spooler issue in Windows 11, follow these step-by-step instructions:
1. Fixing the print spooler from Services:
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Open the Services console by searching for “services.msc” in the Start menu. – Right-click on the Print Spooler service and select Properties.
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Click on the General tab and click the Stop button. – Delete the contents of the printers folder located at “C:WindowsSystem32spoolprinters”.
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Go back to the Printer Spooler Properties page, click on the General tab, and click the Start button to restart the service. – Click OK to save the changes.
2. Fixing the print spooler from Command Prompt:
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Open Command Prompt as Administrator from the Start menu. – Enter the commands “net stop spooler”, “del /Q /F /S “%systemroot%System32SpoolPrinters*.*””, and “net start spooler” one by one.
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Press Enter after each command. – After completing the steps, print jobs should be able to be sent successfully.
These step-by-step methods aim to reset the print spooler service and resolve printing issues on Windows 11.
In conclusion, if you encounter the issue of Windows 11 printer spooler not running, you can try the above solutions and follow the step-by-step instructions to fix the problem. It is important to keep your operating system, apps, and drivers updated to ensure compatibility and prevent print spooler errors.
