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Can't open printer preferences Windows 10

Anonymous
2020-03-31T17:16:58+00:00

We upgraded to Windows 10 Pro (1909, 18363.720) and now I cannot access printer preferences.  No matter which printer I try or which application, if I select "Printer Properties" or "Printer Preferences," where you can choose paper size and color management options, etc. not where you choose ports or drivers, the screen just blips and then goes back to the application as if I hadn't clicked anything.  This is preventing me from printing with any options other than the default settings.  It started in Adobe Acrobat, and especially when I would choose the "Advanced" tab trying to find the preset shortcuts.  I could restart my computer to get the functionality of the Printer Preferences back, but now it happens in all apps for all printers no matter how many times I shutdown or reboot.

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Settings

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  1. Anonymous
    2020-03-31T23:54:32+00:00

    Thanks, Greg.  While waiting for an answer, I added a duplicate printer and somehow it resolved my issue.

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  2. Anonymous
    2020-03-31T23:55:46+00:00

    Glad to hear it, Geoffrey.

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  3. Anonymous
    2020-03-31T17:23:42+00:00

    Hi Geoffrey. I'm Greg, an installation specialist, 10 year Windows MVP, and Volunteer Moderator. If you will work with me I will be here to help until the issue is resolved.

    1. See if you can System Restore to a point before the problem began following this guide: https://www.windowscentral.com/how-use-system-r...
    2. Re-register the Settings app from Option 2 here: http://www.tenforums.com/tutorials/3175-apps-re...
    3. Go over this checklist to make sure the install is set up correctly, optimized for best performance, and any needed repairs get done: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/wiki...

    Start with Step 4 to turn off Startup freeloaders which can conflict and cause issues, then Step 7 to check for infection the most thorough way, then step 10 to check for damaged System Files, and also Step 16 to test a new Local Admin account. Then continue with the other steps to go over your install most thoroughly.

    1. Update your drivers and BIOS/UEFI firmware from Printer, PC or motherboard maker's Support Downloads web page, using the full model number, Serial Number or Dell Service Tag on sticker. Compare the latest drivers available for download with the ones presently installed in Device Manager reached by right clicking the Start button. Make sure you have the latest BIOS or UEFI firmware, Chipset, Display (Video), Sound, USB3, Bluetooth, Network and all other drivers, or else download and install the latest now.

    Updating drivers from the Device Manager or Windows Update is rarely enough. The most basic thing we need to learn to maintain a PC is keep the latest manufacturer's drivers installed from their Support Downloads web page.

    1. If nothing else works then do a Repair Install, by installing Media Creation Tool, open tool and choose to Upgrade Now. This reinstalls Windows while keeping files, programs and most settings in place, and is also the most stable method to advance to the latest version. http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-10/m...

    I hope this helps. Feel free to ask back any questions and keep me posted. If you will wait to choose if I resolved your problem, I will keep working with you until it's resolved.

    ________________________________________________________

    Standard Disclaimer: There are links to non-Microsoft websites. The pages appear to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the sites that may advertise products frequently classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the sites before you decide to download and install it.

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