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How to Fix Your Printer

April 29, 2025 by
How to Fix Your Printer
Resolve I.T., Patrick Reynolds

🔧 Basic Printer Troubleshooting on Windows 11

  1. Check Physical Connections
    • Make sure the printer is powered on.
    • Confirm the USB cable (or network/Wi-Fi connection) is secure.
    • If using Wi-Fi, ensure printer and PC are on the same network.
  2. Run the Windows Printer Troubleshooter
    • Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
    • Click Run next to Printer.
  3. Restart the Print Spooler Service
    • Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
    • Find Print Spooler, right-click, then choose Restart.
  4. Set the Printer as Default
    • Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
    • Select your printer > Set as default.
  5. Clear the Print Queue
    • Open Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
    • Right-click your printer > See what’s printing.
    • Cancel all pending jobs.
  6. Update or Reinstall Printer Driver
    • Open Device Manager (Win + X > Device Manager).
    • Find your printer under Printers, right-click, and choose Update driver.
    • Or uninstall it and reinstall from the manufacturer's website.
  7. Try a Different Application or File
    • Sometimes, the issue is specific to the file or app you're printing from.
  8. Check for Windows Updates
    • Go to Settings > Windows Update and install any available updates.