How to Fix "Print Spooler Keeps Stopping" Issue in Windows?

Fixing the print spooler keeps stopping issue requires checking the print service, clearing corrupted files, and ensuring drivers and system files are working properly. Windows uses the spooler service to store print jobs temporarily before sending them to the printer. If this service stops, all printing functions fail.

By restarting the service and clearing the print queue, you remove stuck files that may be causing the crash. Updating drivers ensures compatibility with Windows updates and printer hardware. Running system tools like SFC scan helps repair damaged system files that affect spooler operations.

This problem can occur on Windows 11, Windows 10, and older versions due to corrupted print files, outdated drivers, malware interference, or system conflicts. Fortunately, there are several effective solutions that can help you fix this issue and restore your printer functionality.

Let’s learn these steps in detail!

Table of Contents

Why does my print spooler keep stopping?

The print spooler service may keep stopping due to several reasons:

One common cause is corrupted print spooler files. When temporary print files become damaged, the spooler cannot process them and crashes repeatedly.

Another reason is outdated or incompatible printer drivers. If your driver does not match your Windows version or printer model, the spooler service may fail to run properly.

Malware or third-party software conflicts can also affect the spooler. Some background applications interfere with printer services and cause them to stop automatically.

A stuck print job in the queue is another frequent cause. When a document fails to print correctly, it can freeze the spooler and stop the service.

Lastly, Windows system errors or missing files may also lead to spooler crashes. These issues can appear after updates or improper shutdowns.

How to Fix “Print Spooler Keeps Stopping” Issue in Windows?

To fix the print spooler keeps stopping issue in Windows, restart the print spooler service, clear the spooler files, update printer drivers, run system file scans, and check for software conflicts. These steps restore the spooler service and ensure smooth printing without interruptions.

Follow the steps below carefully to resolve the issue completely.

Step 1: Restart the Print Spooler Service

The first and simplest method is to restart the Print Spooler service. Sometimes the service stops due to temporary glitches, and restarting it can restore normal printing.

Press the Windows key and R together to open the Run dialog box. Type services.msc and press Enter. This will open the Services window on your computer.

Scroll down and locate Print Spooler in the list of services. Right-click on it and select Restart. Wait for a few seconds while Windows restarts the service.

Once restarted, try printing a test page to check if the problem is resolved. If the spooler stops again, continue with the next steps.

Restarting the service refreshes its process and clears minor issues that may have caused the error.

Step 2: Clear Print Spooler Files Manually

Corrupted or stuck print files often cause the spooler to crash repeatedly. Clearing these files can fix the issue permanently.

Press Windows key and R, type services.msc, and press Enter. Find the Print Spooler service and right-click on it. Select Stop to temporarily disable it.

Now open File Explorer and go to the following path:
C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS

You may be asked for administrator permission. Click Continue to access the folder.

Delete all files inside the PRINTERS folder. These are temporary print jobs that may be causing the problem. Do not delete the folder itself.

After deleting the files, return to the Services window. Right-click on Print Spooler and select Start.

This method removes corrupted print queue files and allows the spooler to function normally again.

Step 3: Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers

Outdated or incompatible printer drivers are one of the main causes of spooler errors. Updating them ensures smooth communication between your printer and Windows.

Open Device Manager by pressing Windows key and X and selecting Device Manager. Expand the Printers or Print queues section.

Right-click on your printer and choose Update driver. Select Search automatically for drivers. Windows will check and install the latest available driver.

If updating does not work, reinstall the driver. Right-click the printer again and select Uninstall device. Restart your computer and reconnect the printer. Windows will reinstall the driver automatically.

You can also download the latest driver from the official printer manufacturer’s website for better compatibility.

Updating drivers resolves many print spooler keeps stopping issues caused by software conflicts.

Step 4: Run Windows System File Checker

If system files related to printing are damaged, the spooler service may crash repeatedly. Running the System File Checker helps repair missing or corrupted files.

Press the Windows key and type Command Prompt. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.

In the command window, type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

Wait for the scan to complete. This process may take several minutes. Windows will automatically repair any corrupted system files it finds.

After the scan finishes, restart your computer and check if the spooler is working properly.

This step ensures all essential Windows printing components are intact and functioning correctly.

Step 5: Check for Windows Updates

Sometimes the spooler issue occurs due to outdated Windows files or bugs. Installing the latest updates can fix known printing issues.

Press the Windows key and open Settings. Go to Windows Update and click Check for updates. If updates are available, download and install them.

After updating, restart your computer. Try printing again to see if the spooler works normally.

Microsoft frequently releases updates that fix printer and spooler-related bugs, so keeping Windows updated is essential.

Step 6: Remove Problematic Printer Software

Third-party printer utilities or old printer software can conflict with the spooler service. Removing unnecessary software can help.

Open Control Panel and go to Programs and Features. Look for old or unused printer programs installed on your system.

Uninstall any software related to printers you no longer use. Restart your computer afterward.

Removing conflicting applications helps the print spooler service run without interruptions.

Step 7: Scan Your Computer for Malware

Malware or harmful software can interfere with system services, including the spooler. Running a full system scan ensures your computer is safe.

Open Windows Security from the Start menu. Click Virus and threat protection and select Full scan. Start the scan and wait until it finishes.

If any threats are detected, remove them immediately and restart your computer.

A clean system ensures the print spooler service runs smoothly without being stopped by malicious programs.

Faqs

What is a print spooler in Windows?

The print spooler is a Windows service that manages all print jobs sent to the printer. It stores documents temporarily and sends them to the printer in order.

Why does the print spooler stop automatically?

The spooler may stop due to corrupted files, outdated drivers, stuck print jobs, malware, or system file errors.

Is it safe to delete spooler files?

Yes, deleting files inside the spooler PRINTERS folder is safe. These are temporary files, and removing them often fixes printing issues.

How do I permanently fix print spooler errors?

Restarting the service, clearing spooler files, updating drivers, and running system scans usually fix the problem permanently.

Can Windows updates fix spooler problems?

Yes, installing the latest Windows updates can resolve bugs that affect printing services.

Summary

Restart the Print Spooler service from the Services window.
Clear all files from the spooler PRINTERS folder.
Update or reinstall your printer drivers.
Run the System File Checker scan.
Install the latest Windows updates.
Remove conflicting printer software.
Scan your system for malware.