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While trying to print a picture, the padlock symbol came on.  I  left the program but can't remove the padlock picture from my desktop screen.  Help!

1 REPLY 1
HP Recommended

Hi @mtnfolk4 

 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

 

It sounds like the padlock symbol that appeared on your screen might be related to a security feature or printer settings, or possibly even a stuck graphical element in the application or OS you're using. Here are a few things you can try to remove the padlock icon:

1. Close All Programs and Restart

  • Close any open applications, especially the one you were using to print.
  • If the padlock symbol persists, try restarting your computer. This can help clear any lingering graphical elements or errors.
  • Once the computer restarts, check if the padlock is still visible on the screen.

2. Check Taskbar or System Tray for Printer Icon

  • Sometimes, a padlock icon may appear in the taskbar or system tray to indicate an issue with the printer (e.g., waiting for authentication or a security setting).
  • Look in the bottom-right corner of your screen (system tray) and see if there is any printer-related icon with a padlock.
  • If you find it, right-click on it and see if there is an option to clear or remove the lock.

3. Remove from Desktop (if it's a Shortcut/Program)

  • If the padlock is part of an icon on your desktop that was created during the printing process, it could be a program or shortcut related to the printer or print job.
  • Right-click on the padlock icon and select Delete or Remove (depending on whether it's a shortcut or file).

4. Check for Print Queue or Pending Jobs

  • Sometimes a padlock symbol appears when there are pending print jobs or a secure printing setup.
    • Open the Print Queue by going to Control Panel > Devices and Printers, right-clicking your printer, and selecting See what's printing.
    • If there are any jobs in the queue that are paused or stuck, cancel them and see if the padlock disappears.

5. Check Security Settings for Printer

  • If the printer is set up with security settings (like Secure Print), the padlock might appear to show that the print job is secured or waiting for authentication. Check the printer settings to ensure no security feature is enabled that is causing the issue.
  • Go to Printers & Scanners in Settings and look for any security options.

 

I hope this helps.

 

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

 

.
Sneha_01- HP support
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