Computer Electronic

Printer Not Working on Windows 11? Here’s a Complete Fix Guide

Published

2 months ago

November 11, 2025

David Cruz

Reviewed
By Sophie Mark

Introduction

If your printer seems to have quit on you especially when using Windows 11 you’re not alone. Printer issues such as a device appearing offline, print jobs stuck in a queue, or jobs simply never starting are surprisingly common. The good news: many of these problems have clear fixes. In this article we’ll walk you through diagnosing and resolving printer problems on Windows 11, step by step.

Why printers stop working

Before jumping into the fixes, it helps to understand the usual culprits:

Driver or software mismatches. Often after a Windows 11 update or upgrade, the printer driver (software that lets your PC talk to the printer) becomes outdated, corrupted or incompatible.
Connection issues. Whether via USB, network (Ethernet/Wi-Fi) or Bluetooth, if the PC can’t communicate properly with the printer, printing fails.
Printer spooler service errors. Windows uses a “Print Spooler” service to queue and manage print jobs. If that service fails, you’ll see stuck jobs or no response at all.
Hardware or consumables issues. Paper jams, empty or low ink/toner, the printer being offline or in error state.
Network issues (for networked printers). If the printer and PC aren’t on the same network, or if network sharing settings are off, you’ll run into problems.

With that in mind, let’s dive into how to fix them.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting in Windows 11

1. Run the built-in printer troubleshooter

Windows 11 offers a quick diagnostic tool that can catch and fix many common printer issues.
Go to: Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters → Printer and click Run.

This can save you a lot of manual effort.

2. Do the simple hardware & connection checks

Turn off your printer, unplug it (if wired), wait 30 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on. This “power-cycle” can fix many issues.
If it’s a USB printer, check the USB cable and try a different USB port on your PC.
If it’s a Wi-Fi or network printer: make sure the printer is connected to the same network as the PC. Check Wi-Fi status on the printer.
Check for things like paper jams, open printer cover, low ink/toner or other error lights on the printer itself. These physical issues can silently block printing.

3. Verify the printer appears and is set up correctly

Go to: Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners.

Check that your printer appears in the list.
If the printer shows “Offline” or “Error” status, click it and view the queue or status.
If necessary, set it as the default printer: select the printer → click Set as default (and disable “Let Windows manage my default printer” if you want control).

4. Clear the print queue

Sometimes a stuck print job blocks the entire queue. Here’s how to clear it:

In the Printers & scanners settings, select your printer → Open print queue.
Cancel all pending jobs.
If that doesn’t help, you can stop the Print Spooler service, manually delete files in C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS, then restart the service.

5. Restart or reset the Print Spooler service

Press Windows + R, type services.msc, press Enter.
In Services, find Print Spooler → right-click → Restart.
If you keep having trouble, check the service’s properties and ensure it’s set to Automatic start.

6. Update or reinstall the printer driver

Driver issues are hugely common after upgrades or updates in Windows 11. Here’s what you should to:

Visit your printer manufacturer’s website (e.g., HP, Epson, Canon) and download the driver specifically for Windows 11 and your printer model.
In Windows, open Device Manager, expand Print queues or Printers, right-click your printer → Update driver → select Search automatically.
If updating doesn’t help, uninstall the device (in Device Manager or Printers & scanners settings), reboot the PC, then reinstall the printer and driver.

7. Remove and re-add the printer

If all else fails, remove the printer entirely and add it back:

In Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners, select the printer → Remove device.
Restart your PC.
Make sure the printer is turned on and connected, then click Add device (or Add printer or scanner). Windows should detect and install it, or you can choose to add manually.

8. Check for Windows updates and printer firmware

An outdated Windows build or missing firmware update on the printer itself can block printing.

Go to Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates.
On your printer manufacturer’s website, check if there is a firmware update for your printer model — especially if it started failing after a Windows 11 upgrade.

9. Network printer sharing and permissions (for networked/shared printers)

If you’re printing to a printer that’s shared on a network:

Make sure printer sharing is enabled in Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners.
Ensure all devices are on the same network and that firewall or antivirus software isn’t blocking access.
If necessary, manually add the printer by selecting The printer I want isn’t listed and entering the network path (e.g., \\ComputerName\PrinterName).

10. Last-resort fixes and advanced tips

If you’re still stuck:

Try printing from a different application (just in case it’s an app-specific bug).
If the printer is very old and lacking Windows 11 compatible drivers, consider using Windows Compatibility Mode for the driver installer.
As a super-advanced step: editing registry keys for the print spooler service or removing old print processors if the standard methods fail. (Only for experienced users/backups required.)

Summary & Best Practices

Printing problems may feel frustrating, but with a systematic approach you can often resolve them quickly. Here’s a consolidation of the best practices:

Always start with simple hardware checks (power cycle, cables, network).
Use the Windows troubleshooter to handle common issues automatically.
Clear the print queue and restart the Print Spooler service when jobs won’t go through.
Update or reinstall drivers and firmware — many issues stem from mismatches after OS updates.
Remove and re-add the printer if it seems stuck or misconfigured.
For network/shared printers, check sharing settings, network connectivity and permissions.
Keep Windows and the printer firmware up to date to prevent compatibility issues.
If you’re using older hardware or drivers, check for compatibility mode or consider hardware upgrades if needed.

If the issue still persists after all these steps, you can contact our printer support team U.S.A. at +1-855-666-7787 for expert assistance and remote troubleshooting.

Author

David Cruz

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Computer Electronic

Troubleshooting Guide: Resolve Epson Printer Scanning Issues

Published

3 hours ago

January 14, 2026

adamsmithh

Introduction

Epson printers are popular for their reliability and excellent printing and scanning quality. However, many users encounter a frustrating issue where their Epson printer won’t scan.

This problem may occur due to software conflicts, outdated drivers, connection errors, network issues, or scanner settings that are not configured properly. The good news is that most scanning issues can be resolved quickly with simple troubleshooting steps.

Check Basic Requirements Before Scanning

Before diving into technical fixes, ensure that all basic conditions are met. Confirm that your Epson printer is powered on and not displaying any error lights. Make sure the USB cable is securely connected if you are using a wired setup. For WiFi users, check that the printer is connected to the same network as your computer.

Ensure there is no pending print job blocking scanning functions. Simple checks like these often resolve the problem instantly without further troubleshooting.

Ensure Epson Scan Software or Epson Scan 2 Is Installed

Epson printers require specific scanning software to perform scanning operations smoothly. If your computer does not have Epson Scan or Epson Scan 2 installed, the scanner may not work at all.

Visit Epson’s official website, search for your printer model, and download the correct scanning utility for your operating system. Once installed, restart your computer and attempt scanning again. This step alone fixes the issue for many users.

Update or Reinstall Epson Printer and Scanner Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers are a common cause of Epson printer won’t scan errors. On Windows, open Device Manager and locate your Epson printer and imaging devices. Right-click and choose Update Driver. If updating doesn’t work, uninstall the printer entirely and reinstall it using the latest drivers from Epson’s website.

Mac users should remove the printer from System Settings and add it again after installing the newest driver package. Updated drivers restore proper communication between your computer and scanner.

Restart the Epson Printer and Computer

A simple restart often fixes scanning problems caused by temporary software glitches. Turn off your Epson printer, unplug it for 30 seconds, and plug it back in. Restart your computer as well.

This reset clears communication errors and refreshes all scanner services. Once both devices restart, try scanning again to check if the issue is resolved.

Check Network and WiFi Connection for Wireless Scanning

If you are scanning wirelessly and your Epson printer won’t scan, connection issues may be the reason. Make sure your printer is connected to a stable WiFi network. Print a network status sheet from the printer menu to verify connection details. Avoid connecting your printer to a 5GHz network, as many Epson models support only 2.4GHz.

Also ensure your computer is on the same network. Reconnect your printer to WiFi if necessary. A stable and shared network connection prevents scanning interruptions.

Disable Windows Firewall or Security Software Temporarily

Firewall or antivirus software sometimes blocks the communication required for scanning. If your Epson printer won’t scan, temporarily disable your firewall or third-party security software to test whether it is causing the issue. On Windows, open Windows Security and turn off Real-time Protection or Firewall briefly.

If scanning works while it is disabled, add Epson Scan or Epson Scan 2 to the firewall exceptions list. This ensures a secure environment while enabling scanning functionality.

Run Epson Scan as Administrator (Windows Only)

Sometimes Windows restricts applications from accessing certain system files required for scanning. Right-click the Epson Scan or Epson Scan 2 icon and select Run as Administrator.

This gives the application full permissions to communicate with the scanner. Many users report that scanning begins to work instantly after running the software with administrative rights.

Reset Epson Scanner Settings

Incorrect configuration within the scanning software may cause your Epson printer to stop scanning. Open Epson Scan or Epson Scan 2 and reset all settings to default. Make sure the correct scanner model is selected.

Ensure that the scan mode (Home Mode, Office Mode, Professional Mode) is properly configured. Wrong resolution or color settings may also prevent scanning. Resetting these options helps the scanner operate correctly again.

Restart Windows Image Acquisition Service (WIA)

The Windows Image Acquisition service is essential for scanning. If WIA stops working, your Epson printer won’t scan. To fix this, open the Services app in Windows, scroll to Windows Image Acquisition (WIA), and restart it.

Set the Startup type to Automatic. This ensures the service remains active every time you scan. Restart your computer and try scanning again.

Check for Epson Firmware Update

Firmware updates improve performance and fix bugs related to scanning, printing, and connectivity. Go to your printer’s control panel or Epson’s support website and install any available firmware updates.

Updated firmware corrects internal communication issues and ensures your printer performs smoothly while scanning.

Reset Printing System on Mac

Mac users often face scanning issues due to outdated printer files. If your Epson printer won’t scan on Mac, reset the printing system by opening System Settings, selecting Printers & Scanners, and clicking Reset Printing System.

This removes old configuration files. Add your printer again and install fresh drivers. Resetting the printing system resolves most scanning errors on Mac.

Use Epson ScanSmart for Enhanced Scanning

Epson ScanSmart is a modern scanning software that supports PDF creation, cloud saving, and advanced scan settings. If Epson Scan isn’t working, switch to Epson ScanSmart for smoother scanning.

Download it from Epson’s website and follow the setup instructions. Many new Epson models use ScanSmart instead of traditional Epson Scan software.

Check for Hardware Issues

If none of the software fixes work, check the scanner glass and internal components. Clean the scanner glass with a lint-free cloth to remove smudges that may affect scanning. Ensure the printer lid is closing properly.

Listen for unusual noises when the scanner is in operation. If the hardware appears faulty, contact Epson support for repair or replacement options.

Conclusion

Epson printer scanning issues can disrupt your workflow, but most problems can be fixed quickly using simple troubleshooting steps. By checking connections, updating drivers, reinstalling scanning software, adjusting permissions, resetting scanner settings, restarting key services, and ensuring proper WiFi setup, users can restore scanning functionality in minutes.

Whether you are using Windows or Mac, these solutions help eliminate scanning errors and deliver smooth performance from your Epson printer. With this guide, you can fix your Epson printer won’t scan error efficiently and get back to scanning documents without hassle.

Author

adamsmithh

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Computer Electronic

Guide to Buying or Renewing Norton 360 with LifeLock Online

Published

1 day ago

January 13, 2026

David Cruz

In today’s digital world, protecting your personal information, devices, and online identity is more important than ever. Norton 360 with LifeLock is a comprehensive cybersecurity solution that combines powerful antivirus protection with identity theft monitoring and privacy tools.

Whether you are a first-time buyer or an existing user looking to renew your subscription, purchasing or renewing Norton 360 with LifeLock online is a straightforward process.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from choosing the right plan to completing your purchase and activating or renewing your protection smoothly.

Note: For assistance with purchasing or renewing Norton 360 Antivirus with LifeLock online, you can contact Norton Support for guidance.

What Is Norton 360 with LifeLock?

Norton 360 with LifeLock is an all-in-one security suite designed to protect your devices and personal identity. It typically includes:

Real-time antivirus and malware protection
Firewall and ransomware protection
Secure VPN for online privacy
Password manager
Cloud backup (PC)
LifeLock identity theft protection features (availability may vary by region)

Before buying or renewing, it’s important to understand which features matter most to you and how many devices you want to protect.

Step 1: Choose the Right Norton 360 with LifeLock Plan

Norton offers multiple versions of Norton 360 with LifeLock, usually differentiated by:

Number of devices covered (1, 5, 10, or more)
Level of identity theft monitoring
Amount of cloud backup storage
Credit monitoring and alerts (in eligible countries)

Carefully compare plans to ensure you’re selecting one that fits your needs and budget. If you’re unsure which option is best, reviewing plan details online or speaking with a knowledgeable support representative can help you make a confident choice.

Step 2: Visit the Official Norton Website or a Trusted Seller

To buy or renew Norton 360 with LifeLock online, always use the official Norton website or a reputable, authorized retailer. This ensures:

Genuine software and licenses
Secure payment processing
Access to updates and customer support
Eligibility for refunds or guarantees

Avoid purchasing from unknown websites offering heavy discounts, as these may provide invalid or counterfeit product keys.

Step 3: Sign In or Create a Norton Account

If you are a new user, you will need to create a Norton account using your email address. Existing users should sign in with the email associated with their current subscription.

Your Norton account allows you to:

Manage your subscription
Download and install the software
Add or remove devices
Renew your plan easily in the future

Make sure to use an email address you check regularly, as important renewal reminders and security alerts are sent there.

Step 4: Buy or Renew Your Subscription Online

Once logged in, follow these steps:

Select your preferred Norton 360 with LifeLock plan
Choose the subscription duration (typically 1 year)
Review pricing, features, and renewal terms
Enter your billing and payment details
Confirm and complete the purchase

For renewals, Norton often displays renewal options directly in your account dashboard. You may also receive renewal reminders as your expiration date approaches. Renewing before expiration helps ensure uninterrupted protection.

If you prefer guidance during the purchase or renewal process, you can get assistance by calling a reliable Norton antivirus support line, where trained agents can help walk you through the steps.

Step 5: Download and Install Norton 360 with LifeLock

After purchase or renewal:

Go to your Norton account dashboard
Click “Download”
Follow the on-screen instructions to install the software
Sign in during installation to activate your subscription automatically

If you’re renewing, your existing installation may update automatically once the new subscription is applied. Always check that your subscription status shows as active.

Step 6: Activate and Configure LifeLock Features

LifeLock features may require additional setup, such as:

Verifying your identity
Entering personal information for monitoring (e.g., SSN, phone number, bank details, where applicable)
Setting alert preferences

Take your time to complete these steps carefully, as accurate information ensures effective identity monitoring and timely alerts.

Step 7: Set Up Automatic Renewal (Optional but Recommended)

To avoid lapses in protection, consider enabling automatic renewal. This ensures your subscription renews automatically before expiration, keeping your devices and identity continuously protected.

You can manage or disable auto-renewal at any time from your Norton account. If you have billing questions or want help adjusting renewal settings, you may also seek assistance by calling Norton Support.

Tips for a Smooth Buying or Renewal Experience

Always keep your login credentials secure
Check system requirements before installation
Update your software regularly
Monitor renewal dates and billing details
Review your plan annually to ensure it still meets your needs

Final Thoughts

Buying or renewing Norton 360 with LifeLock Antivirus online is a simple and secure process when done through the right channels. By choosing the correct plan, purchasing from trusted sources, and properly setting up your account and features, you can enjoy comprehensive protection against cyber threats and identity theft.

With proactive planning and timely renewal, Norton 360 with LifeLock helps you stay protected, confident, and in control of your digital life.

Author

David Cruz

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Computer Electronic

Renew Your McAfee Antivirus Subscription: A Step-by-Step Guide

Published

1 day ago

January 13, 2026

David Cruz

In today’s digital world, protecting your devices from malware, ransomware, phishing attacks, and identity theft is more important than ever. McAfee Antivirus is one of the most trusted cybersecurity solutions, offering comprehensive protection for personal and professional use. Whether you’re purchasing McAfee for the first time or renewing an existing subscription, doing it online is quick, convenient, and secure.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to buy or renew your McAfee Antivirus subscription online, explain key things to watch out for, and help you make the most of your protection. If you need assistance at any point during the process, McAfee support is available to help ensure a smooth and secure experience.

Why Choose McAfee Antivirus?

Before diving into the steps, it’s helpful to understand why McAfee remains a popular choice:

Real-time threat protection against viruses, spyware, and malware
Multi-device compatibility (Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS)
Secure browsing and firewall protection
Identity theft protection and VPN services (with select plans)
Automatic updates to defend against the latest threats

With these features, McAfee provides a robust security ecosystem for your digital life.

Part 1: How to Buy a New McAfee Antivirus Subscription Online

If you’re a new user or want to install McAfee on a new device, follow these steps:

Step 1: Visit the Official McAfee Website

Open your preferred web browser and go to McAfee’s official website. Make sure the URL is correct to avoid fake or third-party sites that may sell unauthorized software.

Step 2: Choose the Right Plan

McAfee offers several plans depending on your needs, such as:

Basic antivirus for a single device
Multi-device protection for families
Advanced plans with VPN and identity monitoring

Compare features, device limits, and subscription duration (usually 1 or 2 years) before selecting a plan.

Step 3: Create or Sign In to Your McAfee Account

To complete your purchase, you’ll need a McAfee account.

New users have the option to set up an account with an email and a password
Existing users can simply sign in

Your account is where you’ll manage subscriptions, renewals, and downloads.

Step 4: Complete the Online Payment

Select your preferred plan and add it to the cart, then continue to checkout. McAfee typically accepts:

Credit/debit cards
PayPal or other secure online payment options

After payment is validated, your subscription will be enabled.

Step 5: Download and Install McAfee

After purchase, you’ll receive instructions to download and install the software. Follow the on-screen steps to complete installation and activate protection on your device.

Part 2: How to Renew Your McAfee Antivirus Subscription Online

Renewing your McAfee subscription ensures uninterrupted protection. Expired antivirus software can leave your system vulnerable, so timely renewal is essential.

Step 1: Log In to Your McAfee Account

Go to the McAfee website and sign in using the email address associated with your current subscription.

Step 2: Check Subscription Status

After logging in, go to the My Account or Subscriptions area. Here, you can see:

Expiration date
Devices covered
Current plan details

Step 3: Select “Renew”

Click the Renew button next to your active subscription. McAfee may also display special renewal discounts or bundle offers.

Step 4: Review and Confirm Payment

Verify your plan details and billing information. Confirm the renewal payment to extend your subscription instantly.

Step 5: Confirm Protection Is Active

After renewal, your protection usually continues without needing reinstallation. However, it’s a good idea to:

Check for software updates
Run a quick scan to confirm everything is working properly

If you face any issues during purchase or renewal, you can contact McAfee support for assistance.

Tips for a Smooth McAfee Purchase or Renewal

Enable auto-renewal to avoid lapses in protection
Use only official channels to buy or renew your subscription
Safeguard your login information to ensure your account’s security
Watch for renewal reminders sent to your registered email

Being proactive ensures continuous protection and peace of mind.

Common Issues and How to Handle Them

Some users may encounter issues such as payment errors, activation problems, or account access difficulties. Here’s how to handle them:

Payment declined: Try a different payment method or check with your bank
Activation not working: Ensure you’re logged into the correct McAfee account
Subscription not showing: Refresh your account dashboard or sign out and back in

For unresolved issues, reaching out to McAfee support can help you resolve problems quickly and safely.

Final Thoughts

Buying or renewing your McAfee Antivirus subscription online is a straightforward process that takes just a few minutes. By following the step-by-step instructions above, you can ensure your devices remain protected against evolving cyber threats. Regular renewal, careful plan selection, and proper account management are key to maximizing the benefits of McAfee’s powerful security tools.

Staying protected online isn’t optional anymore—it’s essential. With McAfee Antivirus, you can browse, work, and connect with confidence knowing your digital security is in capable hands. Regular updates and timely renewals help ensure your antivirus software performs at its best consistently.