Microsoft released the monthly round of updates for Windows 10 on July 12, but it is proving to be quite problematic. In particular, it seems as though KB5015807 (OS Builds 19042.1826, 19043.1826, and 19044.1826) from July 12 is causing issues with printing. The same also applies to KB5014666 (OS Builds 19042.1806, 19043.1806, and 19044.1806) Preview which was released on June 28.
What’s the specific issue with printing? Well, per Microsoft’s changelogs, there are issues where after installing these updates, you might see duplicate copies of printers on a device. There might be listings for “Copy1” and there could be situations where an application that needs your specific printer won’t be able to print. Microsoft even goes as far as to warn: “normal printer usage might be interrupted, resulting in failure of printing operations.”
Microsoft’s official workaround for this issue is simple, at least in concept. From the Settings app in Windows 10, look for a duplicate or copy of a printer under the Bluetooth and devices section. From there, you can check if this printer actually works by printing a test page. Microsoft doesn’t explain how, but you can manually print a test page through the classic control panel, with our steps below. We say this because Microsoft indicates that certain printers might not be able to print from within an application, so our trick will help you around this and removing the troublesome printers caused by the update.
- Open Control Panel by searching for it from the Start Menu
- Change the view so you’re viewing by category
- Under hardware and sound, choose view devices and printers
- Right-click on your printers, and choose printer properties
- Under the general tab of the printer, choose Print Test Page
If you’re still having issues, Microsoft suggests updating the printer drivers for your device. Guidance for this is usually available online through your printer maker. Uninstalling a printer should also work, too. To do this, just unplug the printer from your PC, go to the settings app in Windows 10 (not the control panel) and click Remove Device under the Bluetooth and devices section.
Microsoft says it is investigating this issue. It says a resolution and update will come when available. Until one comes, we suggest pausing Windows Update or uninstalling this problematic update.
