“This printer requires your attention” is a frustratingly vague computer message that can have several possible causes. If you’re getting this pop-up on your PC, it means your trusty printer needs some help. But what, where, and how?
In this article, we’ll be showing you the many causes of this error message, and (more importantly) how to fix it.
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What Causes the “Printer Attention Required” Error?
There are many potential causes behind this general error message, some related directly to your printer, and others related to software, drivers, or your PC. Major reasons include:
- Low ink or toner that needs replacing
- Paper jams or a lack of paper
- An unstable connection with your PC
- Outdated or corrupted drivers
This isn’t an exhaustive list, but these are some of the more common causes. Now let’s look at fixes.
Fixing the Printer Error Message
Every printer has its own version of the “Printer attention required” error message, and similarly, every printer has its own specific ways to address it that vary, even within brands. We’ll first take a general approach to solving the problem that can apply to several printer types, then a more precise approach with PC troubleshooting.
Ensure Your Printer Is Ready to Print
The first step should be to check for the obvious printer errors. Ensure that your ink levels are high, your paper tray is full, and that your connection is stable. To be more specific:
- If your ink levels are low, try replacing or reinserting cartridges. If you’re using a laser printer, ensure the toner drum is replaced.
- Open your printer to see if paper from a previous job has become stuck.
- If your printer is connected via USB, try disconnecting and reconnecting it to your PC. Ensure the power supply is stable too. For wireless or network printers, check that they’re being properly detected by your machine.
If you can, try to print a test page to see that all’s well from the printing side of things before proceeding with the next fix.
Update Your Printer and PC
Many printers run their own operating systems, which (like your Windows computer) need to be constantly updated to stay safe and functional. Be sure to update both your PC and printer systems.
Another major reason for printer malfunction is outdated drivers, which may occur after a big system update. To update printer drivers, either go to your manufacturer’s website and download them there or do so through the Device Manager. Here’s how:
Step 1. Type “Device Manager” into the search bar and click the option when it appears.
Step 2. In the Device Manager, navigate to “Printers” and right-click the problematic printer from the dropdown list.
Step 3. Choose “Update driver” from the context menu and choose “Search automatically for drivers.”
Step 4. Choose any new drivers that appear and follow the steps to install them.
Reset the Print Spooler
The print spooler acts as a queue for all jobs sent from the PC to the printer, but it can sometimes become unstable, causing an error. Resetting the spooler might resolve things. Here’s how:
Step 1. Open the Run Dialog (Win + R) and type “services.msc” before pressing (Ctrl + Shift + Enter) to run as Administrator.
Step 2. In Services, navigate down to “Print Spooler.”
Step 3. Right-click it and select “Restart” from the context menu. The service will restart.
Step 4. Check to see if the error is resolved.
Run the Windows Troubleshooter
Windows has a number of troubleshooters for different hardware components, and the printer is no exception. It might be worthwhile to run it. Here’s how:
Step 1. Open Settings (Win + I) and navigate to “Update & Security.”
Step 2. Click “Troubleshoot” in the sidebar, and click “Additional troubleshooters” in the main window.
Step 3. Choose “Printer” and click the “Run troubleshooter” button that pops up. Let the process run and report any errors.
