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How to Fix OneNote Printout Issues and Missing XPS Printer Support
Question details
The user is unable to insert file printouts or PDFs into OneNote due to missing virtual printer components or prompts requiring the discontinued Microsoft XPS Essentials Pack.
- Product
- Microsoft OneNote
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Attempting to insert a file printout or PDF document directly into a OneNote notebook page.
- Observed behavior
- OneNote fails to insert the printout, states the OneNote printer is missing, or prompts the user to install the discontinued Microsoft XPS Essentials Pack. Manual PDF insertion may also fail, especially on ARM processors.
Ensure your Windows operating system is fully up to date and verify whether your computer uses an ARM processor, as this determines which OneNote printing components and drivers are supported.
Repair Microsoft Office and Verify Printer Components
Use the built-in Windows repair tool to restore missing OneNote printer drivers and PDF printing components.
If the 'Send to OneNote' virtual printer is missing, reinstalling or repairing the Office suite will typically restore the missing XPS dependencies.
Press the Windows key + I to open Settings, then navigate to Apps > Installed apps (or Apps & features).
Locate your Microsoft Office or OneNote installation in the list, click the three horizontal dots (or right-click), and select Modify.
Select Online Repair from the prompt and click Repair. This will completely refresh the software and reinstall the missing OneNote printer drivers without deleting your notes.
Apply ARM-Compatible Printout Settings
Since ARM processors have specific driver limitations, ensure you are using the correct native app or web workaround.
Convert Document to Images Manually
Bypass the XPS Essentials Pack requirement entirely by exporting your document as an image before inserting it.
Try WPS Office for Seamless PDF Handling and Note-taking
If OneNote's printing features continue to fail due to missing XPS components, consider switching to WPS Office. It includes a built-in PDF reader and editor that does not rely on outdated virtual printer drivers, making it a reliable, lightweight, and highly compatible alternative.
- 1. Download and Install WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installation package for your operating system.
- 2. Open your Document or PDF: Launch WPS Office and click 'Open' to load your document or PDF directly into the application.
- 3. Annotate and Edit Directly: Use the Comment or Edit tabs to highlight text, insert notes, and draw on your PDF without needing to use a printout feature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does OneNote ask for the Microsoft XPS Essentials Pack?
Microsoft discontinued the XPS Essentials Pack in newer versions of Windows. Older features of OneNote still look for this legacy virtual printer component to process file printouts. Repairing Office or updating to the latest OneNote version usually resolves this dependency.
Can I insert a PDF printout in OneNote on an ARM processor?
Yes, but ARM processors may not support traditional virtual printer drivers used by older versions of OneNote. You must ensure your Windows system and OneNote app are fully updated to the latest ARM-native builds, or insert the PDF through OneNote for the Web as a workaround.
What should I do if the 'Send to OneNote' printer is completely missing?
If the virtual printer is missing from your Windows device, run an Online Repair of Microsoft Office from your Windows Settings > Apps menu. This process reinstalls the necessary virtual printer drivers required for the 'Send to OneNote' functionality.
Is it possible to manually bypass the printout error without reinstalling?
Yes. You can open your document, save or export the individual pages as standard image files (such as PNG or JPG), and manually insert those pictures into your OneNote page using the Insert > Pictures menu.
