How to fix printer that won't print (printing error)

Sometimes print jobs get stuck in memory on the printer or computer. This should help clear the print queue and get you printing again.

Clear print jobs on printer

Aka. power cycle:

1. Shut down printer with power button.
2. Wait for printer to shutdown
3. Disconnect power from the printer/wall for 10 seconds.
4. Reconnect power and turn printer on.

Clear print jobs on computer

Search "PowerShell" in the start menu, right-click Windows PowerShell, then select Run as administrator.

Copy and paste these commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:

Stop-Service -Name Spooler
Remove-Item -Path "$env:SystemRoot\System32\spool\PRINTERS\*" -Force -Verbose
Start-Service -Name Spooler

The Remove-Item command with -Verbose will show you the files being deleted for confirmation.

Additional Troubleshooting if Problem Persists

If the above steps don't resolve the issue, try these general troubleshooting measures for network printers:

1. Obtain the printer's IP address: On the printer's control panel, navigate to the network settings menu or print a configuration page (usually by holding a button or selecting from the menu). Note the IP address.
2. Download the software from the manufacturer:
   • Visit the manufacturer's website (e.g., HP, Canon, Epson), search for your exact printer model, and download the full feature software (recommended if you need scanning, faxing, or advanced features—the installer will handle driver setup and printer addition automatically).
   • Alternatively, if you only need printing and prefer a lighter install, download the printer driver only.
3. Reinstall the printer:
   • Using full feature software (preferred): Run the downloaded installer—it will guide you through removing the old printer and adding the new one with all features enabled. This method typically uses automatic detection (via DNS or similar) and does not require a static IP address.
   • Using driver-only download with manual IP setup:
     • Go to Settings Devices Printers & scanners.
     • Remove the existing printer.
     • Click "Add a printer or scanner." If it doesn't appear, select "The printer that I want isn't listed," choose "Add a printer using a TCP/IP address or hostname," and enter the IP address from step 1. Point to the downloaded driver when prompted.
     • Important: If you install using the IP address, reserve that IP on your router (via DHCP reservation) to prevent it from changing and breaking the connection. Log into your router's admin page (usually at 192.168.1.1 or similar) and set a static lease for the printer's MAC address.
4. If the printer is still acting up:
   • Reboot your computer.
   • Open PowerShell as administrator (as before) and run:

     sfc /scannow

     This scans and repairs system files—wait for it to complete and restart if prompted.
   • Check for Windows updates: Go to Settings Windows Update Check for updates. After installing any updates, click "View optional updates" and install all available driver and hardware updates.

Still not printing? Request assistance.