Why won't my printer work after a Windows update?

Did the Windows update cause the printing problem?

Printing stopping after an update doesn't establish what caused the failure. I'd check the connection and Windows printer setup before deciding the printer needs replacing.

Microsoft's troubleshooting advice covers printers that aren't found, jobs stuck in the queue and print spooler crashes. Start by identifying which symptom you're seeing, rather than assuming every printing failure needs the same fix.

Press Print and note exactly what happens. Does Windows fail to find the printer, display an error, or leave the document waiting? Write down the error message so you can choose the matching troubleshooting instructions. Also note whether paper comes out, even if the page is blank.

How do I check the printer and connection?

Check the printer's error display, paper supply and connection before changing Windows settings. If it reports an open cover, paper jam or low supplies, check those at the printer.

1. Check for low paper or ink, an open cover and jammed paper. Follow the printer's instructions to clear any displayed fault.
2. Check that a USB cable is properly connected at both the printer and computer.
3. Check that wireless printing is enabled if you use Wi-Fi. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to run the printer's wireless connectivity test.
4. Confirm that your computer and wireless printer are connected to the same network. Check this carefully if you use an extender or separate wireless networks.

If the wireless test reports a connection problem, investigate that before reinstalling printer software. Use the printer's instructions to reconnect it to your network. If coverage is also poor around the house, read why Wi-Fi can be slow in some rooms.

What should I try in Windows first?

For Windows 11, Microsoft recommends starting with the automated printer troubleshooter in the Get Help app. It runs checks and attempts repairs before you make manual changes.

1. Open Get Help in Windows 11 and run the printer troubleshooter. Follow its prompts and test printing afterwards.
2. If printing still fails, turn the printer off and unplug its power cable. Wait 30 seconds, reconnect it and turn it on.
3. Recheck the USB cable or wireless connection once the printer is ready.
4. Try printing again and record any error message or change in behaviour.

If the troubleshooter doesn't resolve it, use the matching problem category in Microsoft's support instructions. Choose the printer-not-found advice if Windows can't detect it. Choose the stuck-print-job advice if the document stays in the queue. If your symptom isn't listed, Microsoft directs you to its general troubleshooting steps.

Should I remove and reinstall the printer?

Remove and add the printer again if the initial checks haven't restored printing. Microsoft's Windows 11 instructions include a manual option if automatic discovery doesn't find it.

1. Open Settings, select Bluetooth & devices, then select Printers & scanners.
2. Select the printer you're troubleshooting, choose Remove and confirm the removal.
3. Make sure the printer is switched on and connected. For wireless printing, check that it shares your computer's network.
4. Return to Printers & scanners and select Add device. Wait while Windows searches, then add your printer when it appears.
5. Choose Add manually if it isn't listed, and follow the option that matches your connection.
6. Print a test page to check whether the installation works.

If the printer is installed but the test page fails, check the manufacturer's troubleshooting information or driver updates. A driver is software that lets Windows communicate with the printer. Use the support information for your printer model when choosing a download.

What if the printer feeds out blank pages?

Check whether blank pages occur only in Word or in other apps too. In Word, open File, then Print, and check whether the document's content appears in the preview.

These are the checks a Microsoft Q&A volunteer moderator suggests in a March 2026 discussion about blank pages after an update. The moderator also recommends trying a printer driver update. The discussion doesn't establish that the Windows update caused the fault, so don't treat that report as a diagnosis for your printer.

When is it time to get printer help?

Ask for printer help if the connection checks, troubleshooter and reinstallation still leave you unable to print. Check the manufacturer's support information for faults that remain after installation.

Have the printer model, connection type and exact error ready when you ask for assistance. Include whether Windows finds the printer, whether a test page prints and which apps you've tested. Report any fault shown on the printer's own display as well.

For help in Frankston, Peninsula IT Solutions offers printer setup and device help to check the printer connection and Windows setup.

For workplaces and small businesses, see our Computer support for a business.