Setup · Duplicate printers

The same printer appears more than once

Do not delete every copy. First find the one that actually prints, then clean up only the unused entries.

Why this mattersA program can keep sending jobs to an old or unused printer entry even though another copy of the same printer works.

1. Try the entries one at a time

Open a simple document and choose Print. Look at the printer names carefully. If you see two similar names, try one simple page with each entry.

2. Mark the one that works

Once one copy prints correctly, remember its exact name. If needed, write it down before removing anything.

3. Set the working copy as the default

Windows: Open Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners, select the working printer, and set it as default if that is how you want Windows to behave.

Mac: Open System Settings → Printers & Scanners and choose the working printer as the default if needed.

4. Remove only the copy you are sure you do not use

If the other entry is clearly the old or non-working copy, remove that one. Leave the working printer alone.

Not sure which is which?Stop before deleting anything. A duplicate name is annoying, but it is safer than removing the only queue that actually works.

Official references

Printer Triage is an independent troubleshooting reference.