How to fix Error 28 on Windows 11

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Troubleshooting Guide: Printer Error 28 (“Out of Paper”) on Windows 11

Why This Error Happens

Error 28 is typically triggered by the print spooler receiving a status signal from the printer’s sensor indicating that the paper tray is empty or improperly seated. This can occur due to an actual lack of paper, a misaligned paper tray sensor, dust/debris blocking the sensor, or a corrupted print spooler cache retaining an outdated “no paper” status even after paper has been reloaded. In some cases, outdated or corrupted printer drivers on Windows 11 fail to correctly poll the printer’s real-time hardware status, causing the OS to display a stale error.

Step-by-Step Resolution Guide

  1. Physically inspect the paper tray
    Remove the paper tray completely, fan the paper stack to release static, and reload it ensuring it sits flush against the tray’s back guide. Reinsert the tray firmly until you hear/feel it click into place.

  2. Clean the paper sensor
    Locate the small optical sensor (usually a small plastic tab or lens) inside the paper tray or feed area. Gently wipe it with a dry, lint-free cloth to remove dust or paper residue that may be blocking the sensor.

  3. Clear the Print Spooler queue and restart the service

  • Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
  • Locate Print Spooler, right-click and select Stop.
  • Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS and delete all files in this folder.
  • Go back to Services, right-click Print Spooler, and select Start.
  1. Update or reinstall the printer driver
  • Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
  • Select your printer, click Remove device.
  • Visit the manufacturer’s website, download the latest Windows 11–compatible driver, and reinstall the printer.
  1. Run the Windows Printer Troubleshooter
  • Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  • Click Run next to Printer and follow the on-screen prompts to detect and fix status miscommunication issues.

Alternative or Verification Steps

  • Verify the fix: Print a test page via Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners > [Your Printer] > Print test page. If it completes without the Error 28 prompt, the issue is resolved.
  • Alternative solution: If the error persists, perform a power cycle on the printer itself (unplug for 60 seconds) to reset its internal sensor firmware, then reconnect and retry printing from Windows 11.