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Printer Error 0x000003e3 Operation Failed: 8 Tested Fixes
Check our expert solutions for quick troubleshooting
5 min. read
Updated onSeptember 10, 2024
updated onSeptember 10, 2024
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To fix various driver issues on your PC, you will need a dedicated tool to find the freshest and the original drivers. You can use PC HelpSoft Driver Updater to do it in 3 easy steps:
The 0x000003e3 printer error often occurs when there’s a communication issue between your PC and a shared ornetwork printer. It’s common on Windows 10 and 11, and typically results from driver problems or recent Windows updates.
The full error message readsWindows cannot connect to printer. Operation failed with error 0x000003e3.
Here’s how to fix it:
What does error 0x000003e3 mean?
The error indicates the PC’s inability to print from a shared local network printer. And it doesn’t go away even after a restart. Common causes includeoutdated drivers,recent Windows updates, or third-party software conflicts. Similar issues like the0x00004005 printer errorcan also disrupt printing operations.
How can I fix printer error 0x000003e3?
First, try disabling yourantivirus, make sure your internet is working and check if there’s any Windows update available for install.
If these don’t work, move to the fixes listed next.
1. Restart the Print Spooler
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Press theWindows+Rhotkey, typeservices.msc, and click theOKoption.
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Then double-clickPrint Spoolerto open its properties window.
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SelectAutomaticon theStartup typedrop-down menu.
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If the service is not running, click theStartbutton and apply.
Simply restarting the Print Spooler service fixed this problem for many of our readers so you should definitely try it out.
A simple fix is restarting the Print Spooler, which helps manage printing tasks. This often clears up the 0x000003e3 error, just like it does for other problems, such aserror printing issues.
2. Copy the mscms.dll file into the driver installation folder
3. Manually install the printer drivers
If you keep getting the 0x000003e3 error when Windows tries to install the driver, a quick solution ismanually installing the printer driverfrom the manufacturer’s website. This can also help with problems likeprinter couldn’t print.
4. Run the printer troubleshooter
If you’re encountering similar printer issues, such as aprinter error message, the troubleshooter may help fix them too.
5. Uninstall recent Windows Update
Updates sometimes cause these issues, similar to when you get theprinter status unknownerror. If true, uninstall them since many have been found to trigger the error.
6. Modify the registry
In all likelihood, you shouldn’t get the0x000003e3network printer error anymore in Windows. If the problem persists, head to the next solution.
7. Allow File and Printer sharing in Firewall
If you are getting the0x000003e3 Cannot connect to printerdue to the built-in firewall, make sureFile and Printer Sharingis allowed to fix things.
8. Reinstall the printer
If nothing works, the last option is to remove the device and thenmanually add the printerback. The connection may have run into issues, but it’s easy to fix with a simple reinstall.
While re-adding the printer, use anLPT1: (Printer Port), install the suitable drivers available on the PC, and follow the on-screen instructions. The process is simple and shouldn’t take more than a few minutes.
That’s it! One of the solutions listed here should have helped you get rid of theOperation failed with error 0x000003e3popup in Windows.
For those who frequently use printers, check thebest Printer Management Software for Windows.
If you have any other queries or want to share a solution not listed here, drop a comment below.
More about the topics:error,Printer Errors
Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
Matthew is a freelancer who has produced a variety of articles on various topics related to technology. His main focus is the Windows OS and all the things surrounding it.
He is passionate about the tech world, always staying up-to-date with the latest and greatest. With an analytical view, he likes problem-solving, focusing on errors and their causes.
In his free time, he likes to read and write about history and tries to always develop new skills.
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Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
He is passionate about everything surrounding Microsoft’s OS, focusing on troubleshooting guides & tips for everyday problems.
