Microsoft is warning customers that Windows updates released since June 28 will cause printing issues on devices connected via USB.
See also: How to copy files to a USB flash drive on Mac
“Microsoft has received reports of issues affecting some USB printing devices after installing Windows updates released on June 28 (KB5014666) and later.“
The platforms affected include both client (Windows 10, version 20H2, 21H1 , and 21H2) and server (Windows Server, version 20H2).
Symptoms reported by users and highlighted by the company include applications referring to the printer using a specific name that cannot print, and Windows showing duplicate copies of installed printers with similar names and the suffix “Copy1”.
"Normal printer usage may be interrupted for any scenario, resulting in printing functions failing," said .
“We are currently investigating and will update when more information becomes available.“
Microsoft has also asked users experiencing these or similar printing-related issues on systems with USB-connected printers to submit a report via the Feedback Hub under the Problem > Devices and Drivers > Printing category by selecting “ Create a new bug ” under the “ Find similar reviews ” section .
You can find additional information on the health dashboard or on the Microsoft support website if you want to file a report.
See also: Windows 10: Update KB5014666 brings new features and bug fixes
While Microsoft is still working on a fix for this newly identified issue, the company is providing affected customers with workarounds that will help them temporarily restore printing functionality on their devices.
Actions you could try to resolve the issue include :
Open the Settings app, go to “Bluetooth & devices” and select “Printers & scanners”.
If there appears to be a duplicate installation of an existing printer, such as with the suffix “Copy1”, confirm whether printing works for that printer. That printer should work as expected.
If you need to use the original printer installation and not the duplicate, right-click on the duplicate printer, select “Printer Properties” and select the “Ports” tab. Note the port used.
Opening the “Printer Properties” on the original printer and selecting the “Ports” tab. From the list that appears, select the port used by the duplicate printer. The duplicate printer can be removed if this original printer is functioning normally.
If the above solutions didn't help, you could try updating the printer driver or checking your printer manufacturer's website for a firmware update
See also: How to disable Superfetch in Windows 10 and 11
If the problem persists, you can also try reinstalling the printer by following these steps:
- Turn off your printer and disconnect any cables
- Open the Settings app, go to “Bluetooth & devices” and select “Printers & scanners”
- Select the affected printer and select “Remove device”
- Restart your device
- Turn on your printer and reconnect it to your device
