How to Enable Keep Printed Documents in Print Queue on Windows 11

This article explains how to turn on or off the “Keep printed documents” feature in your print queue on Windows 11.

Why You Might Want This Feature

By default, Windows 11 clears your print queue after a document finishes printing. But what if you need to print the same document again? Or what if you need to keep a record of what you printed?

When you enable “Keep printed documents,” a copy of each printed document stays in your print queue. This is helpful if you need to reprint documents often or if you want to keep records of what you’ve printed.

Method 1: Use the Settings App

This is the easiest way to turn this feature on or off.

1. Open the Settings app. Click the Start menu and select Settings, or press Windows key + I.
2. On the left side, click Bluetooth & devices.
   
   

   

3. On the right side, select Printer & scanners to expand it.
   
   

   

4. Find and select the printer you want to configure.
   
   

   

5. Click Printer properties.
   
   

   

6. A new window will open. Click the Advanced tab at the top.
7. Look for the box next to Keep printed documents. Check the box to turn it on, or uncheck it to turn it off.
   
   

   

8. Close the Settings app when finished.

Method 2: Use Print Management

This method is for users who prefer using Print Management, a more advanced tool.

1. [Requires Admin Privileges] Open Print Management by typing printmanagement.msc in the Windows search box and pressing Enter.
2. On the left side, expand Custom Filters and select All Printers.
3. Right-click the printer you want to configure and select Properties.
   
   

   

4. Click the Advanced tab.
5. Check the box next to Keep printed documents to turn it on, or uncheck it to turn it off.
   
   

   

6. Close Print Management when finished.

What Happens When You Enable This Feature

After you enable “Keep printed documents,” each time you print something, a copy will stay in your print queue even after the document finishes printing. You can see these documents in your print queue and reprint them if needed without having to send the print job again.

Summary

• The “Keep printed documents” feature lets you keep copies of printed documents in your print queue.
• By default, Windows 11 removes printed documents from the queue automatically.
• This feature is useful if you frequently need to reprint the same documents or keep records of what you’ve printed.
• You can enable or disable this feature in two ways: through the Settings app or through Print Management.
• To use either method, go to your printer’s Advanced properties and check or uncheck the “Keep printed documents” box.
• Using Print Management requires admin privileges on your computer.

Frequently Asked Questions