Printer spooler service isn't running/starting automatically

[Slate2214]

I have no error codes on the printer but I am unable to print from any device. When looking into the trouble shoot for printers and scanners I am getting the error message on my computer that the spooler isn't working

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Slate2214,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

If you're encountering issues with the Printer Spooler service on your computer, preventing you from printing, here are some steps you can take to resolve the issue:

**1. Check and Restart the Print Spooler Service

Open Services Management Console:

• Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
• Type services.msc and press Enter.

Locate Print Spooler Service:

• In the Services window, scroll down and find Print Spooler.

Restart the Service:

• Right-click on Print Spooler and select Restart.
• If the service is not running, select Start.

Set to Automatic:

• Right-click Print Spooler and select Properties.
• Ensure the Startup type is set to Automatic. If it's set to Manual or Disabled, change it to Automatic.
• Click Apply and then OK.

**2. Clear Print Spooler Files

Stop Print Spooler Service:

• Follow the steps above to stop the Print Spooler service from the Services window.

Delete Spooler Files:

• Open File Explorer and navigate to C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS.
• Delete all files in this folder. These are temporary files that can cause issues if corrupted.

Restart Print Spooler Service:

• Return to the Services window and restart the Print Spooler service.

**3. Check for Printer Updates

1. Update Printer Drivers:
   • Visit the HP Support website (or the support site for your printer manufacturer) and download the latest drivers for your printer model.
   • Install the updated drivers and restart your computer.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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

Rachel571

HP Support