How to Fix Print Jobs Stuck or Failing on Windows and macOS

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How to Fix Print Jobs Stuck or Failing on Windows and macOS

Print Jobs Stuck or Failing on Windows and macOS

Print jobs getting stuck in the queue or failing to print is a common issue on both Windows and macOS systems. Documents may show “Printing” but never complete, or the printer status may switch to “Error,” “Paused,” or “Offline.” This guide explains the most common causes and provides step-by-step solutions for home and office users.

Common Causes of Print Jobs Stuck or Failing

Before troubleshooting, it helps to understand the typical reasons behind this problem:

  • Corrupted print queue

  • Print Spooler service not running properly

  • Outdated or incompatible printer drivers

  • Unstable USB, Wi-Fi, or network connection

  • Printer set to Offline or Paused

  • Operating system updates causing driver conflicts

  • macOS permission or printing system errors

How to Fix Print Jobs Stuck on Windows

1. Restart the Print Spooler Service

The Print Spooler manages all print jobs in Windows.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + R

  2. Type services.msc and press Enter

  3. Locate Print Spooler

  4. Right-click and select Restart

  5. Ensure Startup type is set to Automatic

2. Clear the Print Queue Manually

A corrupted print queue can block all print jobs.

Steps:

  1. Open Services

  2. Stop Print Spooler

  3. Navigate to:

    C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS

  4. Delete all files in this folder

  5. Start Print Spooler again

3. Set the Printer as Default and Online

  1. Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners

  2. Select your printer

  3. Click Set as default

  4. Confirm the printer status is Online

  5. Disable “Let Windows manage my default printer”

4. Reinstall or Update the Printer Driver

Driver issues are one of the most common causes.

Best practice:

  • Uninstall the existing driver

  • Download the latest driver from the official manufacturer website

  • Restart your system after installation

How to Fix Print Jobs Stuck on macOS

1. Reset the Printing System

This is the most effective solution on macOS.

Steps:

  1. Open System Settings > Printers & Scanners

  2. Right-click anywhere in the printer list

  3. Select Reset Printing System

  4. Confirm and restart your Mac

  5. Add the printer again

2. Clear the Print Queue

  1. Click the printer icon in the Dock

  2. Select all print jobs

  3. Click Cancel or Delete

  4. Restart the printer

3. Check Printer Permissions

macOS security settings may block printer software.

Steps:

  1. Go to System Settings > Privacy & Security

  2. Open Full Disk Access

  3. Ensure printer-related software is allowed

4. Update or Reinstall macOS Printer Drivers

  • Use official drivers from the printer manufacturer

  • Avoid generic drivers for multifunction printers

  • Verify compatibility with your macOS version

Network Printer Troubleshooting (Windows & macOS)

If you use a wireless or network printer:

  • Ensure the printer and computer are on the same network

  • Restart the router and printer

  • Check the printer’s IP address

  • Re-add the printer using IP address settings

  • Temporarily disable VPN or firewall software

Quick Troubleshooting Checklist

  • Restart the printer and computer

  • Clear the print queue

  • Confirm printer is online and set as default

  • Restart Print Spooler (Windows)

  • Reset Printing System (macOS)

  • Install the latest official driver

  • Check USB, Wi-Fi, or Ethernet connections

Conclusion

Print jobs that get stuck or fail are usually caused by spooler errors, corrupted queues, or driver conflicts. By following the steps above, most printing issues on Windows and macOS can be resolved quickly without professional assistance. If the problem persists, consider updating printer firmware or installing a manufacturer-specific driver.

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