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How to Fix Word Online Cannot Print When Stapling Is Enabled
Question details
The user is unable to print a document from Word Online when the stapling option is selected.
- Product
- Word Online
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to print a document with advanced hardware settings like stapling directly from a web browser using Word Online.
- Observed behavior
- The print job fails to send to the printer from Word Online, despite the stapling feature and printer functioning properly in desktop applications.
Ensure that your physical printer has a functioning stapler module and is currently loaded with staples. Check if you have a desktop word processor installed on your computer, as browser-based apps often limit hardware communication.
Print the Document Using the Desktop Version of Word
Bypass the web browser's limited print spooler communication by opening your document in the full desktop application to access advanced printer features.
Word Online simplifies many features for web compatibility and relies on the browser's native print dialogue. This means advanced hardware commands, such as stapling, collating, or specific binding options, may not be correctly passed to your printer. Using the desktop version restores direct communication with your printer drivers.
Open your document in Word Online. Click the 'Viewing' or 'Editing' button at the top of the ribbon, then select 'Open in Desktop App'. Alternatively, you can click 'File', go to 'Info', and select 'Open in Desktop App'.
Once the document has successfully opened in the desktop version of Word, click on 'File' in the top-left corner and select 'Print' from the sidebar.
Select your target printer from the drop-down menu, then click the 'Printer Properties' or 'Advanced Settings' link right below it. Navigate to the finishing tab and check the 'Stapling' option.
Click 'OK' to save the printer settings, then click the large 'Print' button to send your document to the printer with the stapling command included.
Use WPS Office Desktop for Advanced Printing Needs
If you do not have a paid Microsoft Word desktop license and cannot use stapling through Word Online, WPS Office is a completely free, highly compatible alternative. Its desktop client fully integrates with your local printer drivers, ensuring advanced hardware features like stapling work effortlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does stapling work in other applications but not in Word Online?
Word Online is a browser-based service that relies on your web browser's generic print dialog to communicate with the printer. This browser layer often strips out or ignores advanced, hardware-specific commands like stapling, which direct desktop applications can process without issue.
Will my document formatting change if I switch from Word Online to a desktop app?
No. Opening a document directly from Word Online into a compatible desktop word processor maintains all your formatting, styles, and page layouts. In fact, desktop apps often provide a more accurate preview of the final printed page.
How do I report the Word Online stapling issue to Microsoft?
You can report this printing limitation by pressing the Windows Key + F on your keyboard to open the Windows Feedback Hub. Select 'Report a problem', describe the Word Online stapling failure, and submit it to the development team.
Do I need a paid subscription to print my document with stapling?
You need a paid Microsoft 365 subscription to use the desktop version of Microsoft Word. However, if you lack a license, you can download your document as a .docx file and print it using a free desktop suite like WPS Office, which fully supports advanced printer settings.
