If your printer suddenly stopped working after a recent Windows Update, you’re not alone. Many users have reported problems like:
- Printer not responding
- “Offline” status shown despite being connected
- Driver missing or no longer detected
- Print jobs stuck in queue
- Error messages during printing
In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the common causes and solutions—from the simplest steps to more advanced fixes. Whether you’re using Windows 10 or 11, this article will help you restore your printing environment.
Common Symptoms
After a Windows Update, users often experience:
- Errors when trying to print
- The printer disappears from the device list
- It remains “offline” even when powered on
- The print queue stalls
- “Driver not found” or similar messages appear
These issues are usually related to driver compatibility, Windows services, or network settings changed during the update process.
Main Causes of the Issue
1. Printer Driver Incompatibility
Major Windows updates often introduce security or kernel-level changes. Older printer drivers—especially generic or non-manufacturer ones—may stop working properly.
2. Print Spooler Errors
The Print Spooler service manages all print jobs. If it crashes or stops due to a system change, printing becomes impossible.
3. Changed Network Settings
If your printer is on Wi-Fi or LAN, a reset of network type (e.g., Private/Public) or a modified firewall rule can block printer communication.
Step-by-Step Fixes
✔ 1. Restart Your PC
A simple reboot can reload drivers and restart background services affected by the update.
✔ 2. Reconnect or Reinstall the Printer
- Go to Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Printers & Scanners
- Remove the affected printer
- Click Add a printer or scanner to reinstall it
✔ 3. Reinstall the Printer Driver
- Visit your printer manufacturer’s official website (e.g., HP, Canon, Epson)
- Download the latest driver that matches your OS version
- Install it and restart your PC
⚠️ Avoid using “Generic Printer Driver” if possible. Manufacturer drivers are more stable.
✔ 4. Restart the Print Spooler Service
- Press Windows + R → type services.msc → Enter
- Locate Print Spooler, right-click, and choose Restart
- Set startup type to Automatic to prevent future failures
✔ 5. Check Network and Firewall Settings (for network printers)
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet
- If your network is “Public,” switch it to Private
- In Windows Security > Firewall & network protection, make sure printer communication isn’t blocked
Update-Specific Issues (2025 July Update)
Known Bugs in Recent Updates
Several updates in 2025 (e.g., KB5053606, KB5034848) have caused:
- Print spooler crashes
- Printer disappearing from device list
- Driver misrecognition
Fixes
- Go to Settings > Windows Update > Update History
- Uninstall problematic KB updates
- Restart your PC
- Let Windows reinstall the latest fixed versions automatically
USB Printers Printing Garbage Text?
Some users reported their USB printers outputting random symbols instead of documents. Microsoft acknowledged this issue and began deploying KIR (Known Issue Rollback) fixes in updates.
Make sure Windows Update is up to date. This will automatically apply any necessary KIR patches.
Additional Tips That Still Work
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Restart | Often resolves driver or spooler delays after an update. |
| Troubleshooter | Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters and run Printer troubleshooter. |
| Spooler Reset | Restart the Print Spooler service or clear the queue at C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS. |
| Driver Update | Download the latest driver from the manufacturer’s website instead of relying on generic Windows drivers. |
| Re-Add Printer | Remove the printer from Printers & Scanners settings and add it again to refresh the connection. |
System Restore as a Last Resort
If none of the above works:
- Press Start and search for “Recovery”
- Open Recovery > Open System Restore
- Choose a restore point from before the update
- Confirm and allow your PC to reboot
This won’t affect personal files but may remove recently installed drivers or apps.
Contacting Printer Manufacturer Support
If you’re still stuck, reach out to your printer’s support team. Most official websites have contact options and updated drivers. Search like:
- “HP support”
- “Canon printer support”
- “Epson help center”
Prepare your printer model name and a short explanation:
“The printer stopped working after a Windows update.”
Try Another Device
To rule out hardware failure:
- Try printing from another PC or smartphone
- If that also fails, suspect USB cable, Wi-Fi connection, or printer hardware issues
- Check if printer shows blinking lights or error codes
Prevention Tips
- Create a System Restore Point before major updates
- Regularly check for driver updates on the manufacturer site
- Clean and check cables or Wi-Fi periodically
- Back up important print settings or documents beforehand
Final Thoughts
Printer issues after Windows updates can be frustrating—but you’re not alone. By following these steps patiently and in order, most problems can be solved without technical expertise.
If you’re still stuck, don’t hesitate to use manufacturer support or Windows system restore. Taking a few precautions in advance can save hours of trouble later.
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