Fix Printer Spooler Service Stopping Repeatedly

Symptoms

• Print jobs remain in queue or disappear without printing.
• Error message: "The printer spooler service is not running."
• Printer spooler service stops automatically after starting.
• Cannot open printers & scanners settings.
• Event Viewer shows Spooler service errors (Event ID 7031, 7034).

Root Causes

• Corrupted print spooler files (e.g., .SHD, .SPL).
• Faulty or incompatible printer drivers.
• Third-party software conflicts (e.g., antivirus, cloud print services).
• Registry corruption in spooler keys.
• Insufficient permissions or disk space.

Step-by-Step Fix

1. Stop the Spooler Service

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Type:

   net stop spooler

   and press Enter.

2. Clear Spooler Files

1. Navigate to

   C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS

2. Delete all files inside the PRINTERS folder. Do not delete the folder itself.

3. Remove Corrupt Registry Entries (Optional but recommended)

1. Press Win+R, type

   regedit

   , press Enter.
2. Go to

   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Print\Printers

3. Delete any subkeys that correspond to problematic printers (backup first).

4. Restart the Spooler Service

1. In Command Prompt (Admin), type:

   net start spooler

2. Set startup type to Automatic:

   sc config spooler start= auto

5. Reinstall Printer Drivers

1. Open Devices and Printers.
2. Right-click the affected printer > Remove Device.
3. Download latest drivers from manufacturer website.
4. Install drivers and add printer again.

Alternative Fixes

• Run System File Checker:

  sfc /scannow

  in Admin CMD.
• Disable Print Spooler Dependencies: Check services like HTTP, RPC, and ensure they are running.
• Check for Malware: Run a full antivirus scan.
• Create a New User Profile: Corrupt user profile can affect spooler.

Prevention

• Regularly clear print queues and spooler files.
• Keep printer drivers updated from official sources.
• Avoid installing unnecessary printer software or toolbars.
• Monitor Event Viewer for spooler errors and address early.
• Configure Group Policy to restart spooler service on failure (for advanced users).

By following these steps, you can resolve the printer spooler service stopping issue and restore normal printing functionality. If problems persist, consider a Windows repair installation or contact hardware vendor support.