Encountering the “Printer Status is Paused, Cannot Resume” error on Windows can disrupt your workflow, especially when you need to print important documents. This issue often arises due to problems with the printer spooler service, incorrect printer settings, or outdated drivers.
Understanding the Printer Spooler Service
The printer spooler service is a critical component of the Windows operating system that manages print jobs. When this service is paused or encounters an error, it can prevent your printer from functioning correctly. To address this, you need to check and restart the spooler service.
To restart the printer spooler service, follow these steps:
- Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type services.msc and press Enter.
- In the Services window, locate the Print Spooler service.
- Right-click on it and select Restart.
- If the service is not running, select Start instead.
Verifying Printer Settings
Incorrect printer settings can also cause the printer to pause. Ensure that your printer is set as the default device and that it is not paused in the settings.
To verify and adjust printer settings:
- Open the Control Panel and navigate to Devices and Printers.
- Right-click on your printer and select See what’s printing.
- In the print queue window, click on Printer in the menu bar.
- Ensure that Pause Printing is not checked. If it is, uncheck it.
- Set your printer as the default device if it is not already.
Updating Printer Drivers
Outdated or corrupted printer drivers can lead to various issues, including the paused status error. Updating your printer drivers can often resolve this problem.
To update your printer drivers:
- Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand the Print queues section.
- Right-click on your printer and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update.
Clearing the Print Queue
A congested print queue can sometimes cause the printer to pause. Clearing the print queue can help resolve the issue.
To clear the print queue:
- Open the Control Panel and go to Devices and Printers.
- Right-click on your printer and select See what’s printing.
- In the print queue window, click on Printer in the menu bar.
- Select Cancel All Documents.
- Confirm the action if prompted.
Checking for Windows Updates
Sometimes, the issue may be related to a bug or compatibility problem that has been addressed in a recent Windows update. Ensuring your system is up-to-date can help resolve the error.
To check for Windows updates:
- Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
- Navigate to Update & Security.
- Click on Check for updates.
- Install any available updates and restart your computer if necessary.
Reinstalling the Printer
If none of the above steps resolve the issue, reinstalling the printer may be necessary. This process removes any corrupted settings or drivers and installs a fresh copy.
To reinstall the printer:
- Open the Control Panel and go to Devices and Printers.
- Right-click on your printer and select Remove device.
- Restart your computer.
- Reconnect your printer and follow the on-screen instructions to reinstall it.