If you are seeing the “Error 123” message when trying to use your printer on Windows 11, it means there is a problem preventing your printer from working properly. This error can be confusing, especially if you don’t know what caused it.
Fortunately, fixing Error 123 is usually straightforward with some simple troubleshooting steps. You don’t need to be a tech expert to follow this guide.
This article will walk you through easy and detailed steps to get your printer back up and running on Windows 11.
By the end, you’ll understand what causes this error and how to solve it efficiently.
Quick Note: What to Check Before You Begin
- Ensure your printer is properly connected: Check if the USB cable or network connection is secure.
- Make sure your printer is turned on: Sometimes the simplest step is the answer.
- Verify that your printer has paper and ink/toner: Out of supplies can cause errors.
- Restart your computer and printer: This can clear temporary glitches.
Step 1: Run the Printer Troubleshooter in Windows 11
Windows 11 has a built-in tool designed to detect and fix common printer problems automatically. Running this troubleshooter is a great first step because it requires minimal effort and can save you time.
- Click on the Start button and select Settings (gear icon).
- Go to System and then choose Troubleshoot.
- Click on Other troubleshooters.
- Find Printer in the list and click Run next to it.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to let Windows detect and fix any printer issues.
This tool checks for common errors like driver problems or connectivity issues and tries to fix them automatically.
Step 2: Check and Update Your Printer Drivers
Printer drivers are software that help your computer communicate with your printer. If these drivers are outdated or corrupted, Error 123 can occur. Updating drivers ensures compatibility and fixes bugs.
- Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
- Expand the Printers or Print queues section.
- Right-click your printer’s name and choose Update driver.
- Select Search automatically for drivers.
- If Windows finds a newer driver, it will install it. Otherwise, it will tell you the best driver is already installed.
If this does not help, you can visit your printer manufacturer’s official website, search your printer model, and download the latest driver manually.
Step 3: Restart the Print Spooler Service
The Print Spooler is a Windows service that manages printing jobs. Sometimes this service may stop working properly, causing errors like 123. Restarting it can clear stuck jobs and refresh the process.
- Press
Windows + Rto open the Run dialog. - Type
services.mscand press Enter. - In the Services window, scroll down to find Print Spooler.
- Right-click Print Spooler and select Restart.
- Close the window and try printing again.
This step is important because a stuck or malfunctioning spooler can block printing tasks.
Step 4: Remove and Reinstall Your Printer
If the previous steps didn’t fix the error, removing the printer and then adding it back can help reset its configuration.
- Open Settings from the Start menu.
- Click on Bluetooth & devices and then Printers & scanners.
- Select your printer from the list and click Remove device.
- Confirm the removal.
- Click Add device to reinstall your printer.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to reconnect your printer.
This process can fix corrupted settings or driver conflicts causing Error 123.
Step 5: Check for Windows Updates
Microsoft regularly releases updates that fix bugs and improve hardware compatibility. Installing the latest Windows updates might resolve printing errors.
- Open Settings.
- Go to Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- If updates are available, download and install them.
- Restart your PC if prompted.
Alternative Methods and Advanced Options
If Error 123 persists after trying the above steps, consider these options:
- Use System Restore: Roll back your PC to a previous state when the printer was working.
- Check Firewall and Antivirus Settings: Sometimes, security software blocks printer communication.
- Try Printing from Another User Account: This can reveal if the problem is user-specific.
- Manually Remove Printer Drivers: Use the Print Server Properties to remove leftover drivers completely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What exactly causes Error 123 on my printer?
Error 123 usually indicates an invalid printer name or a problem with the printer driver or spooler service. It can also arise from connectivity or configuration issues.
Can I fix this error without reinstalling Windows?
Yes, most cases of Error 123 can be fixed by troubleshooting printer settings, drivers, and services without needing to reinstall Windows.
Is it safe to download drivers from third-party websites?
It is best to download drivers only from the official manufacturer’s website to avoid malware or incompatible drivers.
Why does restarting the Print Spooler help?
Restarting the spooler clears stuck print jobs and refreshes the printing service, which often resolves errors in processing print requests.
What if my printer is connected over Wi-Fi and shows Error 123?
Check your network connection and ensure your PC and printer are on the same Wi-Fi network. Restarting your router may also help.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the steps above and still face Error 123, consider these final options:
- Contact Printer Manufacturer Support: They can provide specialized help for your model.
- Visit Microsoft’s official support page for printer errors in Windows 11.
- Use a Different Printer: If urgent printing is needed, try another printer until the issue is resolved.
- Consider Professional Repair: Hardware faults may require technician assistance.
Conclusion
Error 123 on your Windows 11 printer is often caused by driver issues, spooler service problems, or connection errors. By following simple steps like running the troubleshooter, updating drivers, restarting services, and reinstalling the printer, you can usually fix the problem yourself.
Remember to always check connections and supplies first, as these basic checks save time. If advanced options or official support is needed, do not hesitate to use those resources.
With patience and the right approach, your printer will be working smoothly again in no time.