How to Unpause a Printer on Windows and Mac
Category: How-To
A paused printer won't process any print jobs until you unpause it. This can happen accidentally or after an error. Here's how to fix it on both Windows and Mac.
Unpause Printer on Windows
Method 1: Via Print Queue
- Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners
- Click your printer
- Select Open print queue
- In the menu bar, click Printer
- If Pause Printing has a checkmark, click it to uncheck (unpause)
Method 2: Right-Click from Taskbar
- Look for the printer icon in the system tray (bottom-right)
- Right-click it
- Select your printer and click Resume Printing
Method 3: Via Control Panel
- Open Control Panel > Devices and Printers
- Right-click your printer
- Select See what's printing
- Click Printer > Resume Printing
Unpause Printer on Mac
- Open System Settings > Printers & Scanners
- Select your printer
- Click Open Print Queue
- If paused, click Resume in the queue window
Printer Keeps Pausing?
If your printer automatically pauses after errors:
- Check for and clear any paper jams
- Ensure ink/toner is installed correctly
- Run the printer troubleshooter (Windows) or reset the printing system (Mac)
- Update printer drivers