How to Pause and Resume Printing in Windows 11
You pause and resume printing in Windows 11 by accessing the print queue for your specific printer.
The print queue is a window that displays all the documents currently waiting to be printed. From here, you can manage individual print jobs or the entire queue.
For example, you can pause all print jobs for a specific printer with just a couple of clicks, perfect for when you need to swap paper types or replenish ink on your HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e.
To resume printing, you simply return to the same queue and select the resume option.
Access your printer’s queue via Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners. Select your printer, then click the “Pause” button to stop printing. Click “Resume” to restart the print queue.
What is a Printer?
A printer is a machine that makes paper copies of documents, photos, or files from your computer. You can connect your printer using a USB cable, Wi-Fi, or a network cable (Ethernet).
When you click “Print,” your computer sends the file to the printer. The printer then prints it on paper.
Why Would You Pause Printing?
You might want to pause printing for several reasons. For example, you might be changing the ink or toner cartridge. Or maybe you need to fix a paper jam. Windows 11 now lets you pause printing easily and then resume it later without losing your place.
How to Pause and Resume Printing in 🪟 Windows 11
These steps work on Windows Build 26020 (Canary Channel) or newer versions.
- Open the Settings app: Click the Start menu button and select Settings. Or press the Windows key + I on your keyboard.
- Go to Bluetooth & Devices: In the Settings window, click Bluetooth & devices in the menu on the left.
Windows 11 Bluetooth and devices settings page - Find Printers & Scanners: On the right side, click Printers & scanners.
Printers and scanners tile in the Settings app - Select your printer: Click on the printer you want to pause or resume printing for.
List of printers in Settings - Pause or Resume printing: Under Advanced Printer Settings, click the Printing tile. Then click the Pause button to stop printing.
Pause printing button
When you want to start printing again, click the Resume button.
Resume printing button - When finished, close the Settings app.
Summary
Windows 11 lets you pause and resume printing easily through Settings. This feature helps when you need to fix your printer or change ink or toner. Just open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners, select your printer, and use the pause or resume buttons. You can control your print jobs without cancelling them. That’s all there is to it! Now you have more control over your printing with this handy Windows 11 feature.
How do I pause printing in 🪟 Windows 11?
Go to Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Devices > More devices and printer settings > Double-click the printer to open the print queue to pause the print, just like the way you could do on Windows 10.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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