If you are experiencing problems when you are using USB printers, it's probably because of your recent update.
According to the BleepingComputer, Microsoft issued a warning to customers that the Windows 10 updates released last June 28 is breaking USB printer functionality.
Redmond explained that the tech company has received reports of issues wherein some printing devices are affected after the user installed the Windows updates KB5014666.
What are the Symptoms of Windows 10 Bug?
Windows 10 users of version 20H2, 21H1, and 21H2 as well as those using Windows Server, version 20H2 are affected by the USB printer functionality issue.
As per Tech Radar, Microsoft said that there are two main symptoms of this Windows 10 bug.
First is "Windows might show duplicate copies of printers installed on a device, commonly with a similar name and the suffix 'Copy1.'" Second is "Applications that refer to the printer by a specific name cannot print."
In a notice on the Windows health dashboard, the company said that "Normal printer usage might be interrupted for either scenario, resulting in failure of printing operations."
Windows is currently conducting investigation on the issue. The company said that when more information is available, they will provide an update.
According to the BleepingComputer, Microsoft requested users experiencing issues with their USB printers or similar printing-related issues to file a report.
Reports can be filed through Feedback Hub under the Problem, then Devices and Drivers, then Print category. Just choose "Make new bug" under the "Find similar feedback" section.
Additional information can be found on the health dashboard. It can also be found in the Microsoft's support website in case you want to file a report.
Read Also: Windows 10 KB5011831 Update Now Available - Will It Just Be Bug Fixes?
Is There a Workaround?
Currently, Microsoft is still working to resolve this recently identified issue. Meanwhile, the company offers workarounds to affected customers. This should help them restore printing functionality on their devices for the time being.
To resolve the issue for the meantime, you have to first open the Settings app. Then navigate to "Bluetooth & devices," and select "Printers & scanners."
If you see a duplicate installation of an existing printer having a suffix of "Copy1", try to find out if printing works for this device. This printer should work as expected.
If what you want to use is the original printer installation and not the duplicate, simply right-click the duplicate, then, select "Printer properties." Afterwards, choose "Ports" tab. Make sure to check the port in use.
Then, open "Printer properties" on the original printer and select the "Ports" tab. Choose the port option being used by the duplicate printer. If this original printer works normally, the duplicate copy printer can be removed.
If the stated workarounds didn't work, you could try updating the printer driver. You might also try opening your printer manufacturer's website for a possible firmware update.
If the issue still persists, you can attempt reinstalling the printer. Simply turn off your printer and disconnect any cables.
Then go to the Settings app and navigate to "Bluetooth & devices." Afterwards, choose "Printers & scanners."
Then, select the affected printer and click the "Remove Device" option. Afterwards, restart your device. Lastly, turn on your printer and reconnect it to your computer.
Related Article: Windows 10 KB5014666 Update: Bug Fixes, New Printer Features, and More
