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How to Fix Photoshop Print Program Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Photoshop is a powerful tool used by many to create stunning digital artwork and designs. However, encountering a print program error can be frustrating, especially when you need to print your work urgently. This guide will help you fix the Photoshop print program error on Windows 11 with simple, easy-to-follow steps.

The print error can occur due to various reasons, such as driver issues, software glitches, or incorrect settings. By following the steps below, you will be able to identify the cause and apply suitable solutions to get your printing back on track.

Don’t worry if you are not very tech-savvy. Each step is explained clearly and in detail so that anyone can follow along without confusion.

Let’s begin by ensuring your system is ready for printing and then move through troubleshooting techniques from the easiest to the more advanced.

Quick Note: Before You Start

  • Make sure your printer is properly connected to your Windows 11 computer and turned on.
  • Check that your printer has enough paper and ink or toner.
  • Restart your computer and printer to clear temporary issues.
  • Ensure Photoshop and Windows 11 are both updated to the latest versions.

Step 1: Restart Photoshop and Your Computer

Sometimes, the simplest solutions work best. Restarting Photoshop can clear temporary glitches that cause printing errors. Close Photoshop completely, then reopen it and try printing again.

If the error persists, restart your computer. This step refreshes system files and can resolve minor conflicts between Photoshop and Windows 11.

Step 2: Check Printer Connection and Status

Verify that your printer is recognized by Windows 11:

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Go to Bluetooth & devices and then Printers & scanners.
  3. Find your printer in the list. If it’s missing, reconnect your printer via USB or ensure it’s connected to your Wi-Fi network.
  4. If the printer is listed, check its status. It should say Ready. If it shows Offline or Error, troubleshoot your printer hardware or connection.

Step 3: Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers

Printer drivers are software that allow your computer to communicate with your printer. Outdated or corrupted drivers often cause printing problems.

To update your printer driver:

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Printers or Print queues section.
  3. Right-click your printer and choose Update driver.
  4. Select Search automatically for drivers. Windows will search and install any available updates.
  5. Restart your computer and try printing from Photoshop again.

If updating doesn’t help, consider uninstalling and reinstalling the printer driver:

  1. In Device Manager, right-click your printer and select Uninstall device.
  2. Confirm the uninstallation.
  3. Go to your printer manufacturer’s website, download the latest driver for Windows 11, and install it.
  4. Restart your computer and test printing.

Step 4: Reset Photoshop Print Settings

Sometimes, Photoshop’s print preferences become corrupted, causing errors. Resetting these settings can help:

  1. Close Photoshop.
  2. Navigate to the following folder in File Explorer:
    C:Users[YourUsername]AppDataRoamingAdobeAdobe Photoshop [version]Adobe Photoshop [version] Settings
  3. Find the file named PrintPrefs.psp or any file related to print preferences and rename it to PrintPrefs_old.psp.
  4. Restart Photoshop. The program will create new default print settings.
  5. Try printing again to see if the error is resolved.

Note: The AppData folder is hidden by default. You may need to enable “Show hidden files” in File Explorer options.

Step 5: Use Photoshop’s Print as Image Feature

If you still face print errors, try printing your document as an image. This bypasses some printer driver issues:

  1. In Photoshop, go to File > Print.
  2. In the print dialog box, click the Advanced button.
  3. Check the box labeled Print as Image.
  4. Click Print and see if your document prints successfully.

Step 6: Run Windows Printer Troubleshooter

Windows 11 has a built-in printer troubleshooter that can detect and fix common problems:

  1. Open Settings from the Start menu.
  2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find Printer and click Run.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.
  5. Attempt to print again from Photoshop after the troubleshooter finishes.

Step 7: Check for Photoshop Updates and Repair Installation

Adobe regularly releases updates to fix bugs and improve compatibility. Running an outdated version may cause errors:

  1. Open the Adobe Creative Cloud desktop app.
  2. Go to the Apps tab and check if an update for Photoshop is available.
  3. If yes, click Update and wait for installation.
  4. If updating doesn’t help, consider repairing Photoshop by reinstalling it:
  5. Uninstall Photoshop via Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
  6. Reinstall Photoshop through the Creative Cloud app.

FAQs

Why does Photoshop show a print program error?

This error often occurs due to printer driver issues, corrupt print settings, or compatibility problems between Photoshop and Windows 11.

Can outdated printer drivers cause Photoshop to fail printing?

Yes. Printer drivers manage communication between your computer and printer. Outdated or corrupt drivers can lead to printing errors.

Is the “Print as Image” option safe to use?

Yes, it is a workaround to help avoid driver conflicts. However, it may increase print time and could slightly reduce print quality.

Will updating Photoshop fix print errors?

Often, yes. Updates include bug fixes and compatibility improvements that can resolve printing issues.

Can I print from other applications if Photoshop shows a print error?

If other programs print fine, the issue is likely specific to Photoshop or its settings.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and still face the print program error, consider these options:

  • Contact Adobe Support: Visit the official Adobe Help Center at https://helpx.adobe.com/contact.html for professional assistance.
  • Check Printer Manufacturer Support: Sometimes, printer-specific settings or updates are required.
  • Print to PDF: As a temporary workaround, export your Photoshop file as a PDF and print using a different app.
  • Use a Different Printer: Testing with another printer can help isolate whether the problem is related to your current device.

Conclusion

Fixing the Photoshop print program error on Windows 11 doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with the simplest troubleshooting like restarting your devices and checking connections. Then, move on to updating drivers and resetting Photoshop print settings. Using the “Print as Image” option and running built-in Windows troubleshooters can also help resolve the issue.

Keeping both Photoshop and your printer drivers updated ensures smoother printing experiences. If all else fails, don’t hesitate to seek help from Adobe or your printer’s support services.

By following these clear, step-by-step solutions, you’ll be able to overcome the print program error and get back to creating beautiful prints with Photoshop.

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