Fix: Error Printing Message on Windows 10

When you see the “Error Printing” message on Windows 10, print jobs often get stuck in the queue without printing. This error usually means the system couldn’t finish the print command because of issues with the Print Spooler service or incompatible printer drivers. Outdated or corrupted drivers, especially after a Windows update, are the most common cause.

Problems with the spooler service or printer settings can also contribute.

In this article, we will discuss different ways to solve this error.

1. Restart the Printer

A quick reset of the printer clears minor errors in its system. By turning it off, unplugging, and reconnecting it, you give the printer a “fresh start,” helping to clear stuck print commands. This simple step can fix communication issues with your computer.

2. Check the Paper Tray

Properly loading and aligning the paper tray can fix many printer issues. Even slight misalignment or an empty tray can cause stalls or errors. Checking and loading the tray ensures smooth printing without interruptions.

3. Use the Troubleshooter

Running the Printer Troubleshooter lets Windows automatically find and fix printer issues. It detects problems like driver conflicts, spooler errors, and connectivity issues, then tries to fix them. This simple step quickly solves minor issues without needing manual troubleshooting.

1. Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box. Type ms-settings:troubleshoot and press Enter to open the Troubleshoot tab of the Settings app.

   

2. In the Troubleshooting tab, go to the Get up and running section and click on Printer, then click on Run the troubleshooter.

   

3. Wait for the initial scan to complete, then click on Apply this fix if a repair strategy is recommended.

   

4. After the process is complete, close the troubleshooting window and check if you still encounter the same error message when printing from your default printer.

4. Update Your USB Drivers

Outdated drivers can cause issues with data transfer to the printer, especially if USB drivers aren’t updated for recent Windows versions. Updating them ensures compatibility and fixes the “Error Printing” message if your printer works on another device but not on your current setup.

1. Press the Windows logo key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type devmgmt.msc and press Enter.
   
3. In Device Manager, expand Universal Serial Bus Controllers.
4. Find your USB port driver (usually named with chipset and/or controller). Ignore drivers like mass storage, generic USB, etc.
5. Right-click on your USB controller driver and click Update driver software.
   
6. Select ‘Search automatically for updated drivers’ (ensure you are connected to the internet).
7. Let the process complete and click OK.

If your USB 3.0 port (blue) still shows this error, you can try the USB 2.0 ports (black).

5. Restart the Printer Spool Service and Clear Printing Tasks

Refreshing the Print Spooler service and clearing pending tasks resets the print queue, removing stuck tasks that disrupt printing. Restarting it and clearing files gives the system a fresh start.

1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run window.
2. Type “services.msc” and press Enter to open the Services window.
   
3. Find “Print Spooler” in the list, right-click it, and select “Stop.”
   
4. With Services window open, press Windows + R, type the following path, and hit Enter:

   C:\Windows\system32\spool\PRINTERS

   

5. Delete all files in this folder to clear the print queue.
6. Go back to the Services window, right-click “Print Spooler,” and select “Start.” Close the window and try printing again.

6. Resolve Port Conflict

Sometimes, multiple devices try to use the same port, causing a “port conflict.” With a printer, this can lead to stuck jobs or errors. Resolving it by assigning a unique port lets the printer communicate freely, clearing any blockages in the printing process.