If your printer queue is clogged and nothing seems to be printing, don’t worry. Clearing the printer queue in Windows 10 is a straightforward task. Follow these steps, and you’ll have your printer back to normal in no time. It’s a simple process involving stopping the print spooler service, deleting the print jobs, and restarting the service. Here’s how to do it.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Clear Printer Queue Windows 10
Let’s go through each step to help you clear your printer queue in Windows 10. This will ensure that any stuck print jobs are removed, allowing your printer to function correctly.
Step 1: Open the Services Window
First, press the Windows key + R, type “services.msc,” and hit Enter.
Opening the Services window brings up a list of all services running on your computer. This is where you’ll find the Print Spooler service, which manages all print jobs.
Step 2: Find and Stop the Print Spooler Service
Locate the “Print Spooler” service in the list, right-click on it, and select “Stop.”
Stopping the Print Spooler service halts all current print jobs. This step is crucial to prevent the printer queue from being accessed while you clear it.
Step 3: Open the Print Spooler Folder
Next, press the Windows key + R again, type “%windir%System32spoolPRINTERS,” and hit Enter.
This command opens the folder where your print jobs are stored. You might need administrator permission to access this folder. It’s where you’ll delete the stuck print jobs.
Step 4: Delete All Files in the PRINTERS Folder
Select all files in the PRINTERS folder and delete them.
Deleting these files clears out all print jobs that were previously stuck in the queue. Make sure to delete only the files in this folder, not the folder itself.
Step 5: Restart the Print Spooler Service
Go back to the Services window, right-click on the “Print Spooler” service, and select “Start.”
Restarting the Print Spooler service reactivates the printer queue. With the stuck jobs cleared, your printer should now work smoothly.
After completing these steps, your printer will no longer have any stuck print jobs, and you should be able to print without issues.
Tips for Clearing Printer Queue Windows 10
- Regular Maintenance: Regularly check your printer queue to avoid future clogging.
- Restart Computer: Sometimes a simple restart of your computer can clear the printer queue.
- Update Drivers: Ensure your printer drivers are up to date to avoid compatibility issues.
- Use Printer Troubleshooter: Windows 10 has a built-in printer troubleshooter that can help identify and fix problems.
- Check Printer Connection: Make sure your printer is properly connected to your computer to avoid job failures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I can’t find the Print Spooler service?
Ensure you are in the Services window and carefully scroll through the list. It’s usually near the bottom.
Can I cancel print jobs individually?
Yes, you can cancel jobs individually from the Devices and Printers menu, but clearing them all at once is often faster.
Why do print jobs get stuck?
Print jobs can get stuck due to driver issues, network problems, or printer errors.
What if clearing the queue doesn’t work?
Try restarting your computer and printer. If the problem persists, there might be a deeper issue with your printer or drivers.
How often should I clear my printer queue?
Clear your printer queue whenever you notice jobs not printing. Regular checks can help prevent buildup.
Summary
- Open the Services window.
- Find and stop the Print Spooler service.
- Open the Print Spooler folder.
- Delete all files in the PRINTERS folder.
- Restart the Print Spooler service.
Conclusion
Clearing the printer queue in Windows 10 is a quick and easy way to fix printing issues that can occur when print jobs get stuck. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll ensure that your print queue is clear and your printer is ready to go. Regular maintenance and staying on top of potential issues can save you time and frustration in the long run.
If you found this guide helpful, consider checking out other troubleshooting articles to keep your tech running smoothly. Remember, a well-maintained printer queue means fewer headaches and smoother operations for all your printing needs. Happy printing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.