How to Fix “Printer in Error State” on a Windows 10 PC

If you own a printer, it is possible for it to malfunction once in a while. A common problem for printers is “Printer in Error State,” and this error may occur due to various reasons.

To guide you in fixing the problem proceed to the methods below.

Fix #1: Reinstall your drivers

For printers to function, a driver needs to be installed. All printers have an included driver disc. But, some users don’t have CD-ROM to read the disc. If you don’t have a CD-ROM or you don’t have the driver disc with you, follow these steps.

Step 1: Check for the model number of your printer and the brand. Most printers have their brand and model on the front, so it would not be difficult for you to find them.

Step 2: Go to the manufacturer’s website and search for the model of your printer

Here is a list of some printer manufacturers:

HP – https://support.hp.com/us-en/drivers/printers

Canon – https://ph.canon/en/support/category?range=5

Epson – https://global.epson.com/products_and_drivers/

Brother – https://support.brother.com/g/b/productsearch.aspx?c=us&lang=en&content=dl

If your printer manufacturer is not on the list, search for it.

Step 3: Download your printer driver

Step 4: Follow the instruction on the setup wizard

Step 5: Restart your computer and try using the printer again

Fix #2: Change port settings

Step 1: Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard

Step 2: Enter “devmgmt.msc” and click ok

Step 3: On the device manager, click View on the menu bar and select Show hidden devices

Step 4: Right-click on Ports (COM & LPT) and select properties

Step 5: Click on the Port settings tab

Step 6: Select Use any interrupt assigned to the port

Step 7: Check Enable legacy Plug and Play detection and click ok

Step 8: Reboot your device and check if the printer is fixed

Fix #3: Check Printer Spooler Service

Step 1: Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard

Step 2: Enter “services.msc” and click ok

Step 3: Look for Print spooler and right-click on it

Step 4: In general, set the Startup type to “Automatic“

Step 5: Click apply, then ok

Step 6: Reboot your computer and try using the printer

Fix #4: Check for Windows Updates

Another thing to check if you are having problems with your printer is your Operating System. Windows 10 have issues, and windows roll out updates from time to time.

This can cause your printer to encounter problems. Follow these steps on how you can update Windows 10.

Step 1: Press the Windows key and click on settings

Step 2: On settings, Select Update & Security

Step 3:  Click Windows Update on the side menu

Step 4: Click on Check for updates and wait for the update to finish downloading.

Step 5: After the download has finished. Restart your computer for the update to install.

Check and try using your printer if the error is already fixed.

Fix #5: Check your printer and cables

If the printer is still having issues following the guide above, check your printer cables and ensure they are correctly connected. Also, check if your printer cables have damage and replace it.

If the issue is still present, your printer might be faulty. Go to the nearest service center and have your printer checked and repaired.