How To Permanently Fix A Printer Spooler Error

A printer spooler error can be frustrating, especially when you need to print important documents. This error can prevent your printer from working correctly and disrupt your workflow.

We will examine what a print spooler is and why it’s essential. We will also provide detailed steps to fix a printer spooler error permanently.

What is a Print Spooler?

A print spooler is a software component in Windows that manages print jobs sent to the printer. It acts as an intermediary between your computer and the printer, queuing print jobs and sending them individually. With the print spooler, your printer efficiently processes multiple print jobs.

What Causes a Print Spooler Error?

Print spooler errors can be caused by a variety of issues, including:

• Corrupt or outdated printer drivers
• Conflicts with other software
• Issues with the print spooler service itself
• Corrupted print jobs in the queue
• Misconfigured print spooler settings

How to Solve Printer Spooler Error?

Clear and Reset the Print Spooler

Clearing and resetting the print spooler can often resolve spooler errors by removing corrupted print jobs.

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Scroll down to “Print Spooler” in the list of services.
3. Right-click “Print Spooler” and select “Stop.”
4. Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS and delete all files in this folder.
5. Return to the Services window, right-click “Print Spooler,” and select “Start.”

Run the Printer Troubleshooter

The printer troubleshooter is a built-in Windows tool that automatically detects and fixes common printer problems.

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
2. Select “Printer” and click “Run the troubleshooter.”
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to diagnose and fix the issue.

Restart Print Spooler Service

Restarting the print spooler service can resolve temporary issues and restore your printer to working.

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Right-click “Print Spooler” and select “Restart.”

Set the Print Spooler Service Startup Type to Automatic

Ensuring the print spooler service starts automatically can prevent errors from occurring in the future.

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Right-click “Print Spooler” and select “Properties.”
3. Under the “General” tab, set the “Startup type” to “Automatic.”
4. Click “Apply” and “OK.”

Update the Print Driver

Outdated or corrupt printer drivers can cause spooler errors. Updating your printer driver can resolve these issues.

1. Go to Device Manager by pressing Windows + X and selecting “Device Manager.”
2. Expand the “Printers” section.
3. Right-click your printer and select “Update driver.”
4. Choose “Search automatically for updated driver software” and follow the prompts.

Consider using a thorough third-party solution like Fortect to resolve printer spooler issues efficiently. This all-in-one PC tool features a driver updater that scans your system, identifies outdated or faulty drivers, provides real-time updates, and installs a new driver automatically to fix your printer spooler issue. Keeping your printer driver up-to-date can ensure smooth printer functionality, potentially eliminating spooling.

The free version of Fortect allows you to update the driver of your choice manually and will fix it one at a time. However, the premium plan offers greater convenience with automatic scanning and updates for all installed drivers.

Download and install Fortect now.

Why Do I Need a Printer Spooler?

The print spooler is crucial for managing multiple print jobs seamlessly. It allows you to:

• Queue numerous print jobs without waiting for each one to finish.
• Manage and prioritize print jobs.
• Troubleshoot printing issues more effectively.

Conclusion

Fixing a printer spooler error can restore your printer’s functionality and prevent future disruptions. Following the steps outlined in this guide, you can clear and reset the print spooler, run the printer troubleshooter, change print spooler properties, restart the service, set it to start automatically and update your print driver. 

Regular maintenance and updates keep your printer running smoothly and efficiently. If the problem persists, seek professional assistance to ensure your system and printer are configured correctly.