Alex Ruben
How to Resolve the “User Intervention Required” Error When Printing
Encountering the “User Intervention Required” error while trying to print can be frustrating, especially when you have important documents to print. This error commonly arises from printer driver conflicts, connection issues, or incorrect printer settings. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through step-by-step methods to troubleshoot and fix this error on Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems, applicable for both desktop and laptop users. By following these instructions, you should be able to restore your printer’s functionality quickly.
Before you start, ensure that your printer is connected to your computer and powered on. Make sure you are logged in as an administrator on your Windows machine, as some settings require administrative permissions. No additional downloads are necessary for the methods outlined below—they utilize built-in Windows features.
Step 1: Check and Start the Print Spooler Service
The Print Spooler service manages the printing process on your computer. If it’s not running, you may encounter the “User Intervention Required” error. To check and start this service:
- Press Windows + S to open the search bar and type Services. Click on it when it appears in the search results.
- In the Services window, scroll down to find Print Spooler. Right-click on it and select Properties.
- In the Properties window, set the Startup type to Automatic.
- Click on the Start button to ensure the service is running, then click OK to close the window.
- Lastly, restart your computer to apply the changes.
Step 2: Run the Printer Troubleshooter
If the Print Spooler service is running but you’re still facing issues, running the built-in Printer Troubleshooter can help identify and resolve common problems:
- Press Windows + S again and type Troubleshoot settings. Click on it.
- In the Troubleshoot settings, select Other troubleshooters.
- Locate the Printer troubleshooter and click on the Run button next to it.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to run the diagnostics, selecting Yes when asked to apply fixes. The troubleshooter will attempt to diagnose and resolve any issues it finds.
Step 3: Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers
Outdated or corrupted printer drivers can also lead to printing errors. Updating or reinstalling these drivers can often resolve the issue:
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand the Printers section, right-click on your printer, and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software. Follow the prompts to install any available updates.
- If updating doesn’t work, consider uninstalling the driver. Right-click on your printer in Device Manager and select Uninstall device. After that, restart your computer, and Windows will attempt to reinstall the driver automatically.
Step 4: Check Printer Settings
Incorrect printer settings can also cause the “User Intervention Required” error. Make sure that your printer is set as the default printer:
- Go to Settings by pressing Windows + I.
- Select Devices, then click on Printers & scanners.
- Find your printer in the list, click on it, and select Manage.
- Click Set as default to ensure it is the default printing device.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer and Printer
Sometimes, simply restarting your devices can resolve many issues. Turn off your printer and unplug it from the power source. Restart your computer, and then plug the printer back in and turn it on. This can reset any connectivity issues that might be causing the error.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
If you are still experiencing the “User Intervention Required” error after following these steps, consider checking the following:
- Ensure that your printer has enough paper and that the ink or toner is not empty.
- Check the printer’s connection—whether it’s USB or network—ensuring there are no loose cables or connectivity issues.
- Look for any error messages on the printer’s display panel that may provide additional clues.
Conclusion
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you should be able to resolve the “User Intervention Required” error and restore your printer’s functionality. If problems persist, consider consulting the printer’s manual or contacting the manufacturer’s customer support for further assistance. For additional troubleshooting guidance, feel free to explore our other related tutorials.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my printer is still not working after following these steps?
If your printer remains unresponsive, it may be beneficial to check for hardware issues or consider reaching out to the printer manufacturer’s support for detailed assistance.
Can I fix this error on any printer brand?
Yes, the steps outlined here are generally applicable to most printer brands, including HP, Canon, Brother, and Epson. However, specific instructions may vary slightly based on the model.
Is there a way to prevent this error in the future?
Keeping your printer drivers updated and regularly checking printer settings can help prevent this error. Additionally, ensure that your printer is properly maintained and has a stable connection.