Fix Acrobat Pro 2017 Not Printing PDFs from Internet Explorer
Question details
The user is unable to print PDF documents that are embedded and viewed within Internet Explorer using Adobe Acrobat Pro 2017 or Acrobat Reader.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat Pro 2017 / Acrobat Reader
- Device & OS
- Windows 10
- Scenario
- Attempting to print an online PDF directly from an Internet Explorer browser tab.
- Observed behavior
- The print function fails or does nothing when initiated from the Adobe PDF viewer embedded in Internet Explorer, often occurring after Windows 10 update version 2004.
Ensure your printer is properly connected, turned on, and set as the default printer on your computer before proceeding with software troubleshooting.
Download the PDF and Print Locally via Desktop App
The quickest and most reliable workaround for browser printing bugs is to download the file directly to your computer and print it from a standalone desktop application.
Browser integration issues frequently occur after OS updates. By bypassing the browser plugin entirely, you eliminate the source of the conflict.
Hover your mouse over the PDF within Internet Explorer to reveal the toolbar, and click the 'Save' or 'Download' icon.
Open your computer's 'Downloads' folder or the destination folder where you saved the file.
Double-click the PDF file to open it directly in Adobe Acrobat Pro 2017 or Acrobat Reader.
Click on 'File' in the top-left corner, select 'Print', choose your printer, and click the 'Print' button.
Install the Latest Adobe and Windows Updates
Since this is a known compatibility conflict triggered by Windows 10 update version 2004, installing the latest patches can permanently resolve the bug.
Switch to a Modern Web Browser
Internet Explorer is outdated and prone to plugin integration issues. Switching to a supported, modern browser can instantly bypass these PDF printing errors.
Easily Print and Edit PDFs with WPS Office
Bypass browser compatibility issues and expensive software entirely by using WPS Office. It includes a built-in, lightweight PDF reader and editor that flawlessly opens, manages, and prints standard PDF documents without relying on outdated web browser plugins.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and install WPS Office Free on your Windows PC.
- 2. Open your PDF: Right-click the downloaded PDF document, select 'Open with', and choose WPS Office.
- 3. Access the print menu: Click the 'Print' icon on the top toolbar or press Ctrl+P on your keyboard.
- 4. Print successfully: Select your printer from the drop-down list and click 'Print' to get your document without errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Acrobat suddenly stop printing PDFs in Internet Explorer?
This problem was typically caused by a known compatibility bug following the Windows 10 update (version 2004). The update interfered with Internet Explorer's Adobe PDF plugin integration, disrupting the normal print spooling process.
Can I fix the Internet Explorer PDF printing issue without having to download files manually?
Yes. Updating your Adobe Acrobat or Reader to at least version 21.001.20135 (released in February 2021) and ensuring your Windows operating system is fully patched will resolve the underlying bug, allowing you to print directly from the browser again.
Is Internet Explorer still supported for Adobe Acrobat plugins?
No, Microsoft has officially retired Internet Explorer. It is highly recommended to transition to modern browsers like Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome, which offer better security, built-in PDF viewers, and reliable printing capabilities without needing outdated external plugins.
