Printer spooler errors are one of the most common issues users face when trying to print from their Windows computers. These errors often result in the printer spooler service stopping unexpectedly, preventing print jobs from completing. If you’ve been wondering why your printer spooler keeps stopping, you’re not alone. This problem may be caused by several factors, including corrupted print spooler files, outdated drivers, or even conflicts with other software.
In this blog, we will be discussing the reasons behind printer spooler errors and how you can fix them to ensure smooth printing.
What is the printer spooler?
Now, before we dive into the troubleshooting process, let us know what Printer Spooler is. The Printer Spooler is a Windows service managing print jobs sent to the printer. It queues the print jobs and ensures they are processed in the right order. Problems are bound to occur if this service ceases to function accidentally. These issues could be anything from print jobs being stuck in the spooler queue to the printer failing to respond.
Common Reasons Causing Printer Spooler Error
The occurrence of the printer spooler error has multiple reasons behind it. The most common ones include:
- Over time, print spooler files may become corrupted. It might also result in stopping the spooler service.
- Printer Drivers Out of Date: These are required to maintain a link between the computer and printer. A faulty driver, old or not suitable, might trigger a Printer Sprinter error.
Sometimes, a print job might be stuck in the queue and, therefore, will not be processed by the spooler. This might make the printer spooler stop abruptly.
- Conflicting software: Some other software installed on the computer may interfere with the proper functioning of the printer spooler, making it stop working.
- Too many print jobs: If there are too many print jobs in the queue at a single time, it would break the spooler, thus causing the error.
How to correct printer spooler errors
Since you understand common causes of printer spooler errors, let’s look at some effective solutions to correct the problem.
1. Restart Printer Spooler Service
First and foremost, you would need to restart the service to resolve the printer spooler errors. Here’s how you can do so:
- Open the Run dialog box using Win + R.
- Enter services.msc and hit Enter.
- Scroll down the Services window and locate Print Spooler.
- Right-click on Print Spooler and click Restart.
Sometimes, restarting the spooler may clear out the temporary issue causing the service to stop.
2. Clear Print Queue
A stuck print job is the most common cause of printer spooler errors. Clearing the print queue usually sorts it out.
- Windows key + R, type control printers, and select Enter.
- Select See what’s printing from your print queue and right-click the menu.
- In the print queue window, click on Printer and select Cancel All Documents.
This will clear any stuck print jobs and allow the spooler to restart without issues.
3. Update Printer Drivers
Outdated printer drivers can cause compatibility issues and lead to printer spooler errors. To update your printer drivers:
- Open Device Manager by pressing Win + X and selecting Device Manager.
- Locate your printer under the Printers section.
- Right-click on your printer and select Update Driver.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to search for and install the latest drivers.
Many problems associated with printer spooler errors may be solved with updated drivers to ensure proper communication between your computer and printer.
4. Reinstall the Printer
If restarting the spooler service and updating drivers do not work, then reinstall the printer. To do this:
- Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
- Right-click on your printer and select Remove Device.
- Disconnect the printer from your computer and then reconnect it.
- Follow the instructions to reinstall the printer and drivers.
- Reinstalling the printer may resolve existing underlying issues that are causing the printer spooler to stop.
5. Resolve Software Conflicts
Sometimes, third-party software, such as antivirus programs or printer management tools, can interfere with the Printer Spooler service. Try to disable any such software temporarily and see if the error is resolved. If it is, then consider updating or uninstalling the conflicting software.
6. Run the Printer Troubleshooter
Windows includes a built-in printer troubleshooter that can automatically detect and fix many printer spooler errors. To run the troubleshooter:
- Open Settings and navigate to Update & Security.
- Troubleshoot > Additional Troubleshooters
- Click on Printer and then run the troubleshooter.
This tool can identify and fix problems related to the printer spooler, saving you time and effort.
Final Words
It can be frustrating, but most printer spooler errors are usually resolved with the right steps. Most connectivity issues can be resolved by restarting the printer spooler service, clearing the print queue, updating drivers, and reinstalling the printer. If the problems persist, then it may be worth checking for software conflicts or contacting your printer’s support team.