Delete a Document from the Print Queue

Printing problems are some of the most frustrating problems that we experience as computer users. It takes a long time, and sometimes it will not delete at all, blocking all subsequent print jobs. In some instances, even taking the printer offline, or rebooting the machine will not clear the printing queue. This article discusses what to try if you have a problem when you try to cancel a print job, or if you have a problem when you try to delete a print job from the print queue.

To clear the print job, simply follow these directions:

1. Navigate to "Services" under "Administrative Tools" (from either Control Panel, the Start>Programs menu, or right-click on My Computer and choose "Manage")
2. Stop the Print Spooler services
3. Open Window Explorer (CTRL+E), and navigate to: C:\Windows\system32\spool\PRINTERS
4. Delete any offending print jobs (.spl file extensions).
5. Start the Print spooler service again.