Solve Local Print Spooler Service Not Running Now
Posted inComputers and Technology

Solve Local Print Spooler Service Not Running Now

Posted inComputers and Technology

When you’re trying to print an important document and suddenly encounter the frustrating message Local Print Spooler Service Not Running, it can interrupt your workflow instantly. This common Windows printing error occurs when the Print Spooler service, responsible for managing print tasks, stops working or malfunctions. Fortunately, solving it is simple when you understand the root causes and follow the right troubleshooting steps. In this article, we will walk you through the best solutions to fix this issue quickly and get your printer running smoothly again.

What Is the Print Spooler Service?

The Print Spooler service is a built-in Windows component responsible for:

  • Managing print jobs in the queue

  • Communicating with your printer

  • Handling printer drivers

  • Organizing multiple print requests

When the spooler stops running, your computer can’t send documents to the printer. This issue affects both USB and network printers, making it essential to get the spooler back up and running.

Why Does the Print Spooler Stop Working?

Several factors can cause the Print Spooler service to stop unexpectedly. The most common reasons include:

1. Corrupted Print Spooler Files

Temporary print job files stored in the spooler folder can become corrupted, preventing the service from running properly.

2. Faulty or Outdated Printer Drivers

Driver conflicts or incompatible updates may stop the spooler service.

3. Printer Queue Overload

A long list of stuck print jobs can freeze the spooler service entirely.

4. Malware or System Errors

Certain malware or sudden Windows errors can disrupt essential services, including the spooler.

5. Conflicting Third-Party Software

Some PDF tools, printing apps, or network management programs interfere with the print spooler.

How to Fix Local Print Spooler Service Not Running (Step-by-Step)

Below are the most effective methods to restore the Print Spooler service on Windows. These steps work on Windows 10, Windows 11, and earlier versions.

1. Restart the Print Spooler Service

This is the simplest and most effective method.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.

  2. Scroll down and find Print Spooler.

  3. Right-click and select Restart.

  4. If it’s not running, click Start.

  5. Set Startup Type to Automatic.

This refreshes the entire spooler system and usually resolves temporary glitches.

2. Clear Print Spooler Files

Corrupted print job files can prevent the spooler from starting.

Steps:

  1. Open Run (Windows + R) and type:

  2. Stop the Print Spooler service.

  3. Delete all files inside this folder.

  4. Return to Services and start the Print Spooler again.

By clearing these files, you’re removing any stuck print jobs causing the crash.

3. Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers

Driver issues are one of the most common causes of spooler errors.

To update drivers:

  1. Open Device Manager.

  2. Expand Printers or Print queues.

  3. Right-click your printer and select Update driver.

If updating doesn’t work, reinstall the drivers:

  1. Uninstall your printer from Settings → Bluetooth & Devices → Printers & Scanners.

  2. Restart your PC.

  3. Install fresh drivers from your printer manufacturer’s official website.

4. Run the Windows Printer Troubleshooter

Windows includes a built-in tool designed to detect and fix spooler errors automatically.

Steps:

  1. Open Settings.

  2. Go to System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters.

  3. Find Printer and click Run.

The troubleshooter can automatically reset the spooler and fix minor driver conflicts.

5. Fix Print Spooler Dependencies

If dependent services stop working, the spooler may also fail.

Steps:

  1. Open Services.

  2. Right-click Print Spooler → Properties.

  3. Select the Dependencies tab.

  4. Ensure these services are running:

    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)

    • HTTP Service (sometimes required)

Restart any services listed as inactive.

6. Scan for Malware

Certain malware targets system services, including printing services.

Steps:

  • Run a full scan using Windows Defender.

  • Use a reputable third-party antivirus for deeper analysis.

If malware is found and removed, restart your PC and spooler service.

7. Reset the Entire Printing System

If nothing else works, resetting the system can fix deep-rooted issues.

Steps:

  1. Open Settings → Printers & Scanners.

  2. Remove all printers.

  3. Open Services and stop the Print Spooler.

  4. Clear spooler files again (as in Step 2).

  5. Start the spooler and reinstall your printer.

This method resets all configurations and driver records.

8. Repair System Files Using SFC and DISM

System file corruption can also break the print spooler.

Steps:

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.

  2. Run the commands 

    Restart your computer after both commands complete.

9. Check for Windows Updates

Outdated Windows builds sometimes contain bugs that affect printing.

Steps:

  1. Open Settings → Windows Update.

  2. Click Check for updates.

  3. Install available updates and restart your PC.

This ensures compatibility with your drivers and system components.

10. Disable Conflicting Software

Apps like old PDF converters, virtual printers, or network tools may interfere with spooler functions.

Fix:

  • Uninstall or disable recently installed software.

  • Restart the spooler service.

If the issue disappears, the software was the cause.

Pro Tips to Prevent Future Spooler Issues

  • Clean the print queue regularly.

  • Keep printer drivers updated.

  • Avoid force-shutting down your PC while printing.

  • Use official printer drivers instead of generic versions.

  • Perform periodic system maintenance.

Final Thoughts

Fixing the Local Print Spooler Service Not Running issue is usually straightforward when you follow the right troubleshooting steps. Whether the problem is caused by corrupted files, outdated drivers, or system errors, the solutions above will help you quickly restore your printing service. Keeping your printer software updated and maintaining your system can also prevent this error from recurring. With the right approach, you can ensure smooth and uninterrupted printing every time you need it. Ultimately, these methods ensure that you never have to face the frustrating Local Print Spooler Service Not Running problem again.