The full error message reads, Windows cannot connect to printer. Operation failed with error 0x000003e3. The error affects every iteration, from Windows 7 to Windows 11. But with the right approach, you can have things up and running in no time. Let’s find out.

What does error 0x000003e3 mean?

The error indicates the PC’s inability to print from a shared local network printer. And it doesn’t go away even after a restart. Here are a few reasons you might be getting the error:

Issues with the driver: In most cases, an incompatible or outdated driver triggered the error, and users also had 0x000003e3 when installing the printer driver. Bug in Windows: A few also found that a recent version of the OS led to the error, and uninstalling the update fixed things. Third-party conflicts: Several third-party applications, including antivirus and security software, can affect the connection and lead to this error.

How can I fix printer error 0x000003e3?

Before we head to the slightly complex solutions, try these quick troubleshooting tips:

If you have an antivirus installed, disable it, and verify whether things work out. In case yes, we recommend you switch to a more reliable antivirus. For users who have TrendMicro installed, uninstall the program to get rid of error 0x000003e3. It’s been found to conflict with the printing operation, though a patch for the issue was released. Check if there’s an update available for Windows and install it.

If these don’t work, move to the fixes listed next.

1. Run the printer troubleshooter

Your primary approach when dealing with the 0x000003e3 error or even other problems with the printer should be to run the dedicated troubleshooter.

2. Uninstall recent Windows Update

In case the problem started a while back, check if any updates were installed around the same time. If true, uninstall them since many have been found to trigger the error.

3. Manually install the printer drivers

If you keep getting the 0x000003e3 error when Windows tries to install the driver, a quick solution is manually installing the printer driver from the manufacturer’s website. Just make sure not to download the driver from an unverified source. SPONSORED

4. Modify the registry

In all likelihood, you shouldn’t get the 0x000003e3 network printer error anymore in Windows. If the problem persists, head to the next solution.

5. Allow File and Printer sharing in Firewall

If you are getting the 0x000003e3 Cannot connect to printer due to the built-in firewall, make sure File and Printer Sharing is allowed to fix things.

6. Reinstall the printer

If nothing works, the last option is to remove the device and then manually add the printer back. The connection may have run into issues, but it’s easy to fix with a simple reinstall. While re-adding the printer, use an LPT1: (Printer Port), install the suitable drivers available on the PC, and follow the on-screen instructions. The process is simple and shouldn’t take more than a few minutes. That’s it! One of the solutions listed here should have helped you get rid of the Operation failed with error 0x000003e3 popup in Windows. For those who frequently use printers, check the best Printer Management Software for Windows. If you have any other queries or want to share a solution not listed here, drop a comment below.

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