How to Fix Printer Error 1801 in Windows 11: Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Printer Error 1801 is a common issue that Windows 11 users might encounter when trying to print documents. This error usually indicates a problem with the printer driver or the connection between your computer and the printer.

Fixing this error is often straightforward and doesn’t require advanced technical skills. With a few simple steps, you can get your printer working again.

This guide will walk you through the troubleshooting process step-by-step, starting from the easiest fixes to more detailed solutions.

Follow along carefully to resolve Printer Error 1801 and restore your printing capability.

Quick Note Before You Begin

Make sure your printer is turned on and properly connected to your computer (via USB or network).
Check that you have enough paper and ink or toner in your printer.
Ensure Windows 11 is up to date by running Windows Update.
Have your printer model and driver information handy for reference.

Step 1: Restart Your Printer and Computer

Sometimes, the simplest solution is the most effective. Restarting your devices helps clear temporary glitches that cause errors.

Turn off your printer using the power button.
Wait about 30 seconds, then turn the printer back on.
Restart your Windows 11 PC.
Try printing again to see if the error persists.

This step resets the printer’s internal software and your computer’s connection, which often solves minor communication issues.

Step 2: Check the Printer Connection

Printer Error 1801 can happen if your PC cannot communicate properly with the printer. Ensuring a stable connection is essential.

For USB printers: Unplug the USB cable from your computer and printer, then plug it back in firmly.
Try using a different USB port on your computer to rule out port issues.
For network printers: Verify that your printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your PC.
Restart your router if you suspect network issues.

Confirming these connections eliminates common causes of communication failure.

Step 3: Run the Windows Printer Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a built-in troubleshooter that can automatically find and fix many printer problems.

Click the Start button and select Settings.
Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
Find Printer in the list and click Run.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

This tool checks for driver issues, connectivity problems, and common errors, applying fixes where possible.

Step 4: Update or Reinstall the Printer Driver

Printer drivers are software that allow your computer to communicate with the printer. Outdated or corrupted drivers often cause Error 1801.

How to Update the Printer Driver

Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
Expand the Printers or Print queues section.
Right-click your printer and choose Update driver.
Select Search automatically for drivers and wait for Windows to find updates.
If an update is available, install it and restart your PC.

How to Reinstall the Printer Driver

Open Settings and go to Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
Select your printer and click Remove device.
Confirm the removal, then disconnect the printer from your PC.
Visit the official website of your printer’s manufacturer.
Download the latest driver specific to Windows 11 and your printer model.
Install the driver following the on-screen instructions.
Reconnect your printer and test printing again.

Fresh installation of drivers fixes corrupted files and version mismatches that cause printing errors.

Step 5: Clear the Print Spooler Queue

The print spooler temporarily holds print jobs before sending them to the printer. Sometimes, this queue gets stuck and causes errors.

Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type services.msc and press Enter.
Scroll down and find Print Spooler.
Right-click it and select Stop.
Open File Explorer and navigate to C:WindowsSystem32spoolPRINTERS.
Delete all files inside this folder. These are pending print jobs.
Go back to the Services window, right-click Print Spooler, and select Start.
Try printing again.

Clearing the print queue removes any corrupted jobs that block printing, which often resolves error 1801.

Step 6: Use an Alternative Method to Add Your Printer

If the error persists, try removing your printer and adding it again manually using a different method.

Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
Click Add device and let Windows search for your printer.
If it doesn’t appear, select The printer that I want isn’t listed.
Choose Add a local printer or network printer with manual settings and click Next.
Select the appropriate port (usually USB001 for USB printers).
Pick your printer’s manufacturer and model from the list or use the Have Disk option to load downloaded drivers.
Complete the wizard and test your printer.

This method can bypass automatic detection issues and install your printer correctly.

FAQs About Printer Error 1801 in Windows 11

What causes Printer Error 1801?

Error 1801 usually happens due to corrupted or outdated printer drivers, connection problems, or print spooler issues.

Can I fix this error without reinstalling the driver?

Yes, sometimes restarting the printer and computer or running the Windows troubleshooter can fix the problem without reinstalling drivers.

Will updating Windows 11 help?

Keeping Windows updated ensures compatibility with printer hardware and drivers, reducing the chance of errors.

Is this error specific to certain printers?

No, Error 1801 can affect many printer brands and models, especially if drivers or connections are not properly configured.

Do I need technical skills to fix this?

The steps provided are designed for basic users. Follow them carefully, and you can resolve the error without advanced knowledge.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and still face Printer Error 1801, consider the following options:

Consult the official support site: Visit your printer manufacturer’s website for specific support articles or contact options.
Use Windows Support: Microsoft offers printer troubleshooting help at support.microsoft.com.
Check for hardware issues: There might be a physical problem with your printer’s hardware requiring professional repair.
Try another computer: Test your printer with a different PC to see if the issue is with your computer or the printer itself.

Conclusion

Printer Error 1801 in Windows 11 is usually caused by driver or connection issues that can be fixed with simple troubleshooting steps. Starting with restarting devices, checking connections, and running the Windows troubleshooter often solves the problem quickly.

If needed, updating or reinstalling drivers and clearing the print spooler queue can help resolve more stubborn cases. Remember to try manual printer installation if automatic detection fails.

By following this step-by-step guide carefully, you should be able to fix Printer Error 1801 and get back to printing without hassle.