Before you can perform print-related tasks...

[Steve23923298thpf]

I have a user that is getting the following error:

Before you can perform print-related tasks such as page setup or printing a document, you need to install a printer.

This is only happening when they are attempting to open a PDF that is attached to an email or when they click the quick print option in Outlook.  If they save the PDF to their desktop they are able to open and print the document without issue.

I have seen others having this issue and the resolution was to change the default printer in Windows and then change it back.  This did not resolve the issue.  I have removed and reinstalled both Acrobat Reader DC and Office as well and that didn't resolve the issue.

[Amal.]

Hi Steve

Hope you are doing well and sorry to hear that.

Please go through the help page that I have found on MS support https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/problem-printing-from-pdf-to-printer-with-wind... and see if that works for you.

Regards

Amal

[Steve23923298thpf]

Thank you for the reply.

The article that you linked suggested changing the default printer and removing and reinstalling Acrobat reader.  As I stated in my initial post, I have already tried both of those to no avail.

[Amal.]

Hi there

sorry to hear that. As you have stated earlier, this is only happening when they are attempting to open a PDF that is attached to an email or when they click the quick print option in Outlook. If they save the PDF to their desktop they are able to open and print the document without issue.

It seems to be some issue with MS Outlook, please check for any missing/pending updates for MS outlook and try updating it and check.

Also, please try to get in touch with the MS support team for more help on this issue.

Regards

Amal

[Jay315097470390 · Accepted solution]

For Windows 11, at least, Go into Windows Settings -> Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners, and under "Printer preferences", turn Off "Let Windows manage my default printer".  That fixed the problem for me.