Check the printer is on, has no error codes, and resolve any paper jams or low ink; ensure cables or Wi-Fi are properly connected. 2. Restart both the printer and computer to reset communication. 3. Clear stuck print jobs by stopping the Print Spooler service, deleting files in C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS, then restarting the service. 4. Remove the printer from Devices & Printers and reinstall using the latest manufacturer-specific driver. 5. Run the built-in Printer Troubleshooter via Settings > System > Troubleshoot. 6. Set the Print Spooler service to Automatic startup and ensure it’s running. 7. Test printing from another application or Windows user account to rule out profile or app issues. 8. For USB printers, try a different cable and port, avoiding hubs. These steps resolve most error state issues by restoring proper communication between Windows and the printer.
When your printer shows an "Error State," it usually means Windows can't communicate with the device properly. This could be due to connectivity issues, driver problems, spooler errors, or hardware glitches. Here’s how to fix a printer in error state — step by step.

1. Check Basic Connections and Printer Status
Before diving into software fixes, rule out simple hardware or connection issues:
- Make sure the printer is turned on and has no blinking lights or error codes on its display.
- If it's a wired printer, check that the USB or Ethernet cable is securely connected at both ends.
- For wireless printers, ensure it's connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your computer.
- Look for paper jams, low ink, or open trays — these can put the printer in an error state.
Sometimes the printer itself displays what’s wrong. Fix any physical issues first.
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2. Restart the Printer and Computer
A simple restart often clears temporary glitches.
- Turn off the printer, wait 10–15 seconds, then turn it back on.
- Restart your computer.
- Try printing a test page after both devices reboot.
This resets communication between the devices and clears stuck print jobs.

3. Clear the Print Spooler Queue
A corrupted or stuck print job can cause the error state.
- Press
Win R
, typeservices.msc
, and press Enter. - Scroll down to Print Spooler, right-click it, and select Stop.
- Go to
C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS
(you may need admin access). - Delete all files in this folder (these are stuck print jobs).
- Go back to Services, right-click Print Spooler, and click Start.
Now try printing again.
4. Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers
Outdated or corrupt drivers are a common cause.
- Press
Win I
to open Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners. - Select your printer > Remove device.
- Visit the printer manufacturer’s website (e.g., HP, Canon, Epson) and download the latest driver for your model.
- Install the driver and re-add the printer.
Avoid using generic drivers from Windows if a manufacturer-specific one is available.
5. Run the Printer Troubleshooter
Windows has a built-in tool that can detect and fix common issues.
- Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Find Printer, click Run.
- Follow the prompts and apply any recommended fixes.
It may detect offline status, spooler issues, or connection problems.
6. Set the Print Spooler to Automatic
If the spooler service isn’t running properly:
- Open
services.msc
again. - Double-click Print Spooler.
- Set Startup type to Automatic.
- Click Start if it’s not already running.
- Click Apply > OK.
This ensures the spooler starts with your system.
7. Try Printing from Another App or User Account
Sometimes the issue is app-specific or tied to a user profile.
- Try printing a document from Notepad, Word, or your browser.
- Log in to a different user account on the PC and test printing.
If it works elsewhere, the problem may be with your profile or default app settings.
8. Use a Different USB Port or Cable (For USB Printers)
Faulty cables or ports can interrupt communication.
- Swap the USB cable with a known working one.
- Plug into a different USB port on your computer.
- Avoid using USB hubs — connect directly.
Final Notes
Most "printer in error state" issues are fixable without replacing hardware. Start with the basics — power, connections, and restarts — then move to drivers and spooler cleanup. If nothing works, try setting up the printer on another computer to see if the issue is with the printer itself.
Basically, it's usually a communication breakdown — and most of the time, you can rebuild that link with a few targeted steps.
The above is the detailed content of How to fix printer in error state. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!

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