This error occurs when Windows' Print Spooler service—a background process that manages print jobs—isn't running. Here’s how to fix it properly:
Step 1: Restart the Print Spooler Service
- Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
- In the Services window, scroll down to Print Spooler.
- Right-click it and select Restart. If it’s already stopped, click Start.
- Check if you can now add a printer.
Why this matters: The Print Spooler is essential for printer communication. Restarting it often resolves glitches.
Step 2: Run the Printer Troubleshooter
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
- Select Printer and click Run the troubleshooter.
- Follow the prompts to let Windows detect and fix issues automatically.
Why this matters: The troubleshooter resets printer settings and restarts dependent services.
Step 3: Clear the Print Queue Manually
Corrupted print jobs can crash the spooler. Here’s how to clear them:
- Press Windows + R, type cmd, then press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open Command Prompt (Admin).
- Type these commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
- net stop spooler del /Q /F %systemroot%\System32\spool\printers\* net start spooler
- Try adding your printer again.
Why this matters: Stuck print jobs can prevent the spooler from running.
Step 4: Reset Printer Components
If the spooler keeps stopping, reset its dependencies:
- Open Command Prompt (Admin) as above.
- Run these commands: sc config spooler depend= RPCSS net start spooler
- Restart your computer.
Why this matters: Ensures the spooler isn’t blocked by other services.
Step 5: Reinstall Printer Drivers
Corrupted drivers can break the spooler.
- Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners.
- Select your printer and click Remove device.
- Reinstall the printer: For USB printers, reconnect the cable and let Windows auto-detect. For network printers, re-add them via Add Printer.
Why this matters: Fresh drivers eliminate software conflicts.
Step 6: Check for Windows Updates
Outdated OS files can cause spooler failures.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install all pending updates.
- Restart your PC.
Why this matters: Updates include fixes for printer-related bugs.
Prevention Tips
- Regularly restart your printer and PC to clear spooler cache.
- Avoid force-closing print jobs—always cancel them properly.
- Update printer firmware (check the manufacturer’s website).
If the error persists, your printer hardware may be faulty. Test with another printer or consult the manufacturer’s support.
Let me know if you need further clarification! 😊
