Printers are user-friendly devices. Many modern printers come with a plug-and-play facility where users can install the printer on a computer with just a click. Windows 10 is the most user-friendly operating system after Windows 7. Most printers are compatible with Windows 10, and drivers will be automatically installed when you connect to the system.
In some cases, printers experience a configuration problem. If you experienced this problem, then make sure to run a checklist.
Step 1: Restart your printer and computer
The first step is to restart your printer and computer. This simple step can resolve many common issues, including configuration problems. Turn off your printer and computer, wait for a few minutes, and then turn them on again.
Step 2: Check the printer connections
The next step is to check the printer connections. Make sure that the printer is properly connected to your computer and that the USB cable is not loose or damaged. If you are using a wireless printer, make sure that it is connected to your network and that your computer is connected to the same network.
Step 3: Update printer drivers
Outdated or corrupt printer drivers can cause configuration problems. To update your printer drivers, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + X on your keyboard and select Device Manager from the list.
- Expand the Printers section and right-click on your printer.
- Select Update driver from the context menu.
- Choose the option to search automatically for updated driver software.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the driver update process.
Step 4: Run the Printer troubleshooter
Windows 10 has a built-in troubleshooter that can help you diagnose and fix printer problems. To run the Printer troubleshooter, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + I on your keyboard to open the Settings app.
- Click on Update & Security.
- Select Troubleshoot from the left-hand menu.
- Click on Printer and then click on Run the troubleshooter.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.
Step 5: Reset the Print Spooler service
The Print Spooler service is responsible for managing print jobs in Windows. Resetting this service can resolve many printer-related issues. To reset the Print Spooler service, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
- Type “services.msc” and press Enter.
- Scroll down to the Print Spooler service and right-click on it.
- Select Stop from the context menu.
- Navigate to the C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS folder.
- Delete all the files in the PRINTERS folder.
- Go back to the Services window and right-click on the Print Spooler service.
- Select Start from the context menu.
In conclusion, a configuration problem on a printer can be frustrating, but it is usually fixable. By following the steps outlined above, you can resolve the issue and get back to printing your important documents.