The command %systemroot%\System32\spool\printers\* /Q is used to clear the print queue on a Windows system. It deletes all files in the print spooler directory, which is where print jobs are temporarily stored before being sent to the printer.
Here’s a breakdown of the command:
– `%systemroot%`: This is a system variable that represents the location of the Windows directory. It is typically “C:\Windows” by default.
– `\System32\spool\printers\*`: This is the path to the print spooler directory, where print jobs are queued.
– `/Q`: This switch is used with the `del` command to delete files quietly, without prompting for confirmation.
So, when you run `%systemroot%\System32\spool\printers\* /Q`, you are essentially deleting all files in the print spooler directory without being prompted for confirmation. This can be useful if you encounter issues with stuck or corrupted print jobs.
Please note that clearing the print queue in this way will remove all pending print jobs, so use it carefully. If you have print jobs that you want to keep, you should cancel them before running this command. Additionally, you might need administrative privileges to execute this command successfully.
CLI Method
You can clear the print queue using these commands:
Select Start.
Type Command.
Right-click “Command Prompt” and select “Run as administrator“.
Type net stop spooler then press “Enter“.
Type del %systemroot%\System32\spool\printers\* /Q then press “Enter“.
Type net start spooler then press “Enter“.
The print queue on your Windows should now be cleared. Type exit, then press “Enter” to exit the command window.
GUI Method
You can clear the print queue from GUI using this steps:
Hold down the Windows Key and press “R” to bring up the Run dialog.
Type services.msc, then press “Enter“.
Find the “Print Spooler” service in the list. Right-click it, then select “Stop“.
Leave the Services window open. Hold down the Windows Key and press “R” to bring up the Rundialog.
Type %systemroot%\System32\spool\printers\, then press “Enter“.
Select all of the files by holding “CTRL” and pressing “A“.
Press the “Delete” key to delete all of the files.
Go back to the Services window, right-click “Print Spooler“, then select “Start“