How to Fix Printer Not Activated (Error Code 30) on Windows 11
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Basic Fixes
Fix 1: Set the Connected Printer as Default
If your preferred printer isn’t set as default, you may run into the ‘Printer not activated, error code-30’ issue on Windows. Ensure your printer has adequate paper and ink and use the following steps to set it as a default printer:
Step 1:Open Windows Settings using the Windows + I shortcut, selectBluetooth & devicesfrom the left sidebar, and clickPrinters & scanners.
Step 2:Select your preferred office or home printer.
Step 3:Ensure thePrinter statusisn’tOfflineand clickSet as defaultto assign it as a default printer for all printing operations.
Tip:If the Printer status is labeled ‘Offline’, check its power source and try reconnecting it to your PC.
Fix 2: Reinstall Printer Drivers
Corrupt printer drivers can cause unusual printing errors. To fix this, first remove the printer from Windows Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners, and re-plug the printer. Then, reinstall the printer drivers using theDevice Manager appto restore normalcy.
Step 1:Press the Windows + X shortcut to open the Power User Menu, and selectDevice Manager.
Step 2:ExpandSoftware devices, right-click your printer, and selectUninstall device. Restart your PC and let Windows 11 automatically install compatible printer drivers.
Fix 3: Run the Printer Troubleshooter
Do you still face the ‘Printer not activated (Error Code 30)’ message while printing a PDF on Windows 11? Running the in-built printer troubleshooter should fix it in no time.
Step 1:SelectPrinters & scannersunder Windows settings (check the above steps), and click your connected printer.
Step 2:SelectRun the troubleshooterand wait a few seconds to let it resolve the issue.
Fix 4: Tweak Permission Settings on a Program
If you face the ‘Printer not activated, error code-30’ in a specific app, give it full control over your PC to print files and documents seamlessly.
Step 1:Right-click the app icon and selectShow more options.
Step 2:SelectPropertiesfrom the right-click context menu to open it.
Step 3:Open theSecuritytab and clickEdit.
Step 4:Enable theAllowcheckmark besideFull controland clickApplyfollowed byOKto save changes.
Fix 5: Rollback the Recent Windows Update
Lastly, a buggy Windows Update can malfunction your connected printer showing the ‘Printer not activated (Error Code 30)’ message while initiating a new print. To fix it, rollback the recentWindows Updateusing these easy steps:
Step 1:Press the Windows key, searchUninstall updates, and click it to open the system settings.
Step 2:Locate the recently installed Windows Update using the ‘Installed on’ timestamp, and clickUninstallto remove it. SelectUninstallwhen prompted to confirm the action.
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Last updated on 02 September, 2024
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