How to Clear a Stuck Print Job in the Queue

Method 1: Using the Print Queue Window

1. Open the Print Queue:

   • Press Windows + R, type control printers, and press Enter.

   • Right-click your printer → See what’s printing.

2. Cancel the Print Job:

   • Right-click the stuck job → Cancel.

   • If it doesn’t cancel, proceed to the next method.

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Method 2: Manually Clear the Print Spooler

1. Stop the Print Spooler Service:

   • Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.

   • Scroll down and find Print Spooler.

   • Right-click → Stop.

2. Delete the Print Queue Files:

   • Press Windows + R, type:

     shell

     CopyEdit

     %systemroot%\System32\spool\PRINTERS


   • Press Enter. Delete all files in that folder (they are the stuck jobs).

3. Start the Print Spooler Again:

   • Go back to services.msc.

   • Right-click Print Spooler → Start.

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Optional: Restart Your PC

Sometimes restarting your computer helps finalize clearing the queue.

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Tips to Avoid This in the Future:

• Use updated printer drivers.

• Avoid printing large or corrupted files.

• Keep your printer firmware up to date.