Error message: Printer unable to print file

[FLDennis21]

My HP ENVY 6400e All-in-One has stopped printing. When a file is sent to printer from AOL or Word I get a notification box that says "Printer unable to print file". When I go to Settings it shows Printer as "Ready". In the print queue it shows the file icon with the message "Error, Printing, In queue". I have checked both the ink supply and the paper path and there are no problems. I have re-booted both the PC and the Printer several times but I'm still unable to print. I've tried the HP Assistant which had me delete everything in the Print Spool and install HP Smart to print. Neither suggestion worked.

How can I remove the Error and have my Printer print?

[A_Gayathri · Accepted solution]

Hi @FLDennis21,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

I understand you are Printer is unable to print files with your HP ENVY 6400e All-in-One. Not to worry I will help you to get a resolution to resolve the issue.

Here are some steps you can follow to resolve the "Printer unable to print file" error on your HP ENVY 6455e:

1. Check Printer Status and Connection

• Ensure the printer is connected: Confirm that the printer is properly connected to your Wi-Fi network or computer. If you’re using a wireless connection, make sure the printer is connected to the same network as your PC.
• Check for Paper Jams: Even though you've checked the paper path, it's worth double-checking for any potential paper jams or obstructions.
• Confirm Ink Levels: Verify that the ink cartridges are properly installed and have sufficient ink.

2. Clear the Print Queue

• Open Print Queue: Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners, select your HP ENVY 6455e printer, and click on Open queue.
• Clear the Queue: Right-click on any stuck print jobs and select Cancel. If there are multiple jobs, cancel all of them.

3. Restart Print Spooler Service

• Open Services: Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
• Restart Print Spooler: Locate Print Spooler in the list, right-click on it, and select Restart. This can resolve issues with the print queue.

4. Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers

• Update Drivers: Go to Device Manager (right-click the Start button and select it), expand Printers, right-click on your HP ENVY 6455e printer, and select Update driver.
• Reinstall Drivers: If updating doesn’t help, uninstall the printer driver from Device Manager, then download and install the latest driver from the HP website.

5. Run the Printer Troubleshooter

• Open Troubleshooter: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters, and select Printer to run the troubleshooter.

6. Check for Software Conflicts

• HP Smart App: Ensure that HP Smart is up-to-date. If the problem persists, try uninstalling and reinstalling the app.
• AOL and Word: Check if the issue occurs with other applications. If it’s specific to AOL or Word, ensure these applications are updated and properly configured.

7. Reset the Printer

• Factory Reset: Perform a factory reset on the printer. This option can typically be found in the printer’s settings menu. Refer to the printer’s manual for specific instructions.

8. Check for Windows Updates

• Update Windows: Ensure that your operating system is up-to-date. Sometimes, system updates can resolve compatibility issues with printers.

Refer to this document: HP ENVY 6455e All-in-One Printer User manual

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. 

[FLDennis21]

Gaya 1239 - Thank you much for the helpful solution instructions. The Remove and Re-Install of the device to update the Print Driver is what worked. I am up and printing again but a little behind in my work because of the printer problem. Hopeful that your Reply post might also help others.

[A_Gayathri]

HI @FLDennis21,

That's great! I am happy to hear that the issue has been resolved. If you need further assistance feel free to reach out to us. 

If the information I've provided was helpful, give us some reinforcement by clicking the Accept as Solution on the public post, that'll help us and others see that we've got the answers!

Have a great day ahead! 

Gaya1239 

HP Support