Computer and Software Support


Printer spool dependencies

If you are not able to start the printer setup, you get a message that the print spooler is not started, or some other error dealing with a printer, check the dependencies to the printer has been started.

To see what is dependent on the print spooler do the following

  1. Access Run or Search window
  2. Type Services.msc
  3. Click OK
   
  • Right click Print Spooler
  • Click on Properties
  • Click the Dependencies tab
  • You will need to make sure the items listed here in the two columns have been set to automatic and have been started

    • To see if the service listed on step 8 is set correctly, do the following

    1. Close Print Spooler back to the services screen.
    2. If services is not open then click on Start
    3. Click on Run
    4. Type in Services.msc
    5. Click OK
       
  • Right click on a service that was listed in step 8 above.
  • Make sure the Startup type is set to Automatic
  • If the Service status shows Stopped, click Start
  • Click on Apply
  • Click on OK
    •    
  • Repeat steps 1 through 10 for each service that is listed under the dependencies for the print spooler
  • Close services when finished
  • Reboot the computer

    • NOTE: Some services will not stay started depending on what the service is. They may only turn on when needed.