How do I get Microsoft Print to PDF to not create zero-KB files?

Question

I've reinstalled Microsoft Print to PDF a couple times, and while it is able to properly "print" a test page within the installation process, once I finish the installation, all documents that it creates (including test pages from Settings) are zero-KB pdf "files".

I'm using Windows 11, fully updated.

Answer 1

Hello Colin, sorry to hear you're having trouble.

I have done some research on this and have found the following article that may be helpful for you https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/discussions... Note: This is a non-Microsoft website. The page appears to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the site that may advertise products frequently classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the site before you decide to download and install it.

Answer 2

Hello Colin,

Welcome to Microsoft Q&A.

 

If Microsoft Print to PDF is creating zero-KB files on your Windows 11 system, here are several effective solutions you can try:

 

1. Disable and Re-enable the Feature

This is often the quickest fix:

1. Press Windows + S, search for Windows Features, and open it.
2. Uncheck Microsoft Print to PDF, click OK, and restart your PC.
3. Go back to Windows Features, re-check Microsoft Print to PDF, and click OK again.

 

2. Reinstall the Printer Manually

If re-enabling doesn’t work, try reinstalling it:

1. Press Windows + R, type control printers, and hit Enter.
2. Delete Microsoft Print to PDF.
3. Restart your PC.
4. Go to Devices and Printers > Add a printer > The printer I want isn’t listed.
5. Choose Add a local printer with manual settings > Use port FILE: (Print to File).
6. Select Microsoft > Microsoft Print to PDF, then finish setup .

 

3. Run the Troubleshooter

1. Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners.
2. Select Microsoft Print to PDF and click Run the Troubleshooter.

 

4. Check File Naming and Save Location

• Avoid special characters, commas, or spaces in the filename.
• Choose a simple directory like C:\Users\YourName\Documents when saving .

 

5. Update Drivers

1. Open Device Manager.
2. Expand Print Queues, right-click Microsoft Print to PDF, and choose Update Driver .

 

6. Use Command Line to Reinstall

If manual reinstall fails:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Run:

   ```

   dism /Online /Enable-Feature /FeatureName:"Printing-PrintToPDFServices-Features" /NoRestart

   ```

This reinstalls the Print to PDF feature .

 

Best regards,

Ami | Microsoft Q&A Support Specialist