Windows 7 is a trusted operating system for many. Users use it for its simplicity, effectiveness, and convenience. One of the essential features of Windows 7 is the Print Spooler Service that allows printing documents and images without any hindrance. However, there are times when this service stops working, and Windows 7 keeps throwing error messages. In such cases, you need to enable the Print Spooler Service yourself. This blog will guide you through the steps to enable Print Spooler Service in Windows 7.
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The Challenge of Enabling Print Spooler Service in Windows 7
Despite being straightforward, enabling Print Spooler Service in Windows 7 can be a challenge for many users. Enabling the service in an incorrect way can make the situation worse and cause permanent damage to Windows 7. Therefore, it is important to know the correct methods to enable Print Spooler Service. This blog post will explain all the necessary steps and precautions to keep your Windows 7 safe and secure.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before you start enabling Print Spooler Service in Windows 7, you need to prepare a few things. Here are the things you should prepare for:
1. Windows 7 Administrator Account: You must have access to the computer’s Administrator account to enable the Print Spooler Service.
2. Printer Software: You need to have the printer software installed on your computer to enable the Print Spooler Service.
3. Printer Driver: You must have the printer driver installed on your computer to enable the Print Spooler Service.
4. Internet Connection: You may need to download and install updates for Windows 7 and printer software to enable the Print Spooler Service. Therefore, make sure you have a stable internet connection.
Method 1: Using Service Manager
This method involves using the Service Manager tool to enable the Print Spooler Service in Windows 7. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type "services.msc" without quotes and click OK.
3. Scroll down the list of services until you find "Print Spooler Service."
4. Right-click on "Print Spooler Service" and select "Properties."
5. Click the "Startup type" dropdown menu and select "Automatic."
6. Click the "Start" button.
7. Click the "Apply" button and then the "OK" button.
Pros:
– This method is straightforward and easy to follow.
Cons:
– If you enable the Print Spooler Service incorrectly in Service Manager, you may face further issues.
Method 2: Using Command Prompt
This method involves using the Command Prompt to enable the Print Spooler Service in Windows 7. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Click the "Start" button and type "Command Prompt" in the search box.
2. Right-click on "Command Prompt" and select "Run as administrator."
3. In the Command Prompt window, type "net start spooler" without quotes and press Enter.
4. Close the Command Prompt window.
Pros:
– This method is faster than using Service Manager.
Cons:
– If you type the command incorrectly, you may face further issues.
Method 3: Via Windows Services
This method involves enabling the Print Spooler Service via the Windows Services tool. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Click the "Start" button and type "Services" in the search box.
2. Select "Services" from the search results.
3. Scroll down the list until you find "Print Spooler Service."
4. Right-click on "Print Spooler Service" and select "Properties."
5. Click the "Startup type" dropdown menu and select "Automatic."
6. Click the "Start" button.
7. Click the "Apply" button and then the "OK" button.
Pros:
– This method is similar to Method 1 but may be more comfortable to use for some users.
Cons:
– If you enable the Print Spooler Service incorrectly in Windows Services, you may face further issues.
Method 4: Using Registry Editor
This method involves using the Registry Editor tool to enable the Print Spooler Service in Windows 7. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type "regedit" without quotes and click OK.
3. Navigate to "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Spooler."
4. In the right-hand pane, double-click on "Start."
5. Change the "Value data" field to 2.
6. Click "OK."
7. Close the Registry Editor.
Pros:
– This method may be helpful for users who prefer using the Registry Editor.
Cons:
– If you make mistakes during the process, you may cause permanent damage to Windows 7.
FAQs about Enabling Print Spooler Service in Windows 7
Q1: Why Can’t I Enable Print Spooler Service in Windows 7?
There can be multiple reasons why you can’t enable Print Spooler Service in Windows 7. Here are a few possible reasons and their fixes:
1. Print Spooler Service is Disabled: If the Print Spooler Service is disabled, you won’t be able to enable it until you enable the service first. Follow Method 1 or Method 3 above to enable the Print Spooler Service.
2. Corrupted Printer Driver: If the printer driver is corrupted, it can cause the Print Spooler Service to stop working. In such cases, uninstall the printer driver and reinstall it from the manufacturer’s website.
3. Malware: Malware can interfere with Windows 7’s vital components like the Print Spooler Service. To fix this issue, run a full system scan and remove any malware found.
Additional Tips
1. Always enable the Print Spooler Service in the Administrator account to avoid further issues.
2. Restart your computer after enabling the Print Spooler Service to ensure proper functionality.
3. Check for updates for Windows 7 and printer software regularly to avoid issues.
In Conclusion,
Enabling the Print Spooler Service in Windows 7 is a straightforward process if you follow the right methods. Always ensure to have Windows 7 Administrator account access, printer software, printer driver, and a stable internet connection before proceeding. The methods explained above are safe and effective in enabling the Print Spooler Service. However, if you encounter further issues, refer to the FAQs and additional tips for troubleshooting.