Printers are essential devices in many homes and workplaces, but they can sometimes run into problems when used with Windows operating systems. This article covers common printer problems in Windows, including printer not found, print jobs stuck in the queue, printer spooler crashes, and more, along with step-by-step troubleshooting solutions for each issue.
Notes: We are aware of some ARM PC’s (for example Copilot+ PC’s) not being able to add/install a printer using the included installer or by downloading the installer from the manufacturer’s website.
To fix this, go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners and click on "Add device" instead to add the printer manually, unless the manufacturer has specific guidance for Windows on ARM PCs.
To find out if you have an ARM device, go to Settings > System > About, and look for "System type" property under "Device specifications". ARM devices have "ARM based processor" under system type.
Run the Windows printer troubleshooter
If you are using a Windows 11 device, start by running the automated printer troubleshooter in the Get Help app. It will automatically run diagnostics and attempt to fix most printer problems. If you are using an older version of Windows or a mobile device, please skip to Most common printer problems section.
If the printer troubleshooter in Get Help app is unable to resolve your printer issue, click on the specific printer problem you are experiencing in the Most common printer problems section below and follow the steps to fix them. If your problem is not listed, go to the General troubleshooting section and follow the steps listed in there.
General troubleshooting
Please try the following general troubleshooting steps to help solve the problem.
Step 1. Unplug and restart your printer:
Step 2. Check cables or wireless connection:
Step 3. Uninstall and reinstall your printer:
Step 4. Install the latest driver for your printer:
Step 5. Clear and reset the print spooler
Step 6. Change a printer's status to "online"
Most common printer problems
Below you will find the most common printer problems users have experienced and the steps to troubleshoot them.
Printer not found or recognized
Printer job stuck in queue
Printer is offline even though it's powered on
Printer stopped due to paper jam
Printer is printing slowly
Printer spooler crashed
Printer is producing poor print quality
Cannot print from specific applications
Printer drivers are not compatible with Windows
Cannot access shared printers on a network
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