How to Fix the Printer Spooler in Windows XP

The Printer Spooler is a Windows program that transfers data from the program you are printing from (Microsoft Word, for example) to the printer. You can access the Printer Spooler by clicking on it in the taskbar (only visible when you are printing) or going to "Control Panel," then "Printers" and double-clicking on the printer. Sometimes the Printer Spooler gets hung up or doesn't respond. In the worst case, it doesn't start at all.

Instructions

Clean Printer Install

1. Navigate to Control Panel > Printers and delete all printers by right-clicking on printer icons and selecting "Delete." If you don't see any printers, go to Control Panel > Add/Remove programs and uninstall/remove programs relating to the printer. The spooler error could be caused by a defective print driver. This will delete all drivers.

2. Download the latest driver for your printer from the manufacturer support site for your printer model. Don't use the CD that came with the printer to install unless you're sure it has a Windows XP certified driver.

3. Double-click the driver to start the installation of your printer driver.

4. Test the printer by printing any document or going to Control Panel > Printers > Properties > Print Test Page. If the test page prints correctly, your Printer Spooler is working.

Restart Printer Spooler

1. Click Start > Run. Type in services.msc and press "Enter."

2. Scroll down to the service "Print Spooler" and double-click.

3. Select the "Recovery Tab" and make all three options read "Restart the Service." Click "OK" or "Apply."

4. Restart your computer and attempt to print a test page. If the test page prints correctly, your Printer Spooler is working.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure when installing printer drivers that you install only those for your specific version of Windows (in this case, XP).

Resources

• Microsoft Support Article on Printer Spooler Error