Windows XP Print Spooler Errors

Various errors can occur on a Microsoft Windows XP computer relating to the print spooler. These errors are usually caused by problematic printer drivers or incompatible software.

Background

The Windows print spooler is an operating-system component responsible for sending print jobs to printers and managing the print queue. Print-spooler errors will usually prevent you from being able to print anything until the problem is resolved and may prevent you from installing additional printers.

Resolution

Microsoft provides an online tool which can often resolve this problem for you automatically. There are also detailed instructions available to resolve this issue manually, which include booting up your computer in "safe mode" and deleting data files relating to the print spooler.

Compatibility

An additional cause of this problem relates to incompatibility with certain Lexmark printer software. If you have a Lexmark printer this is likely to be the cause of the errors.

References

• Microsoft: You cannot add a printer and you receive printer spooler error messages in Windows XP