How to Fix Error 1920: Print Spooler Service Failed to Start in Acrobat
Question details
The user is experiencing Error 1920 during the installation or repair of Acrobat Pro because the Windows Print Spooler service fails to start.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat Pro, Windows Print Spooler
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Installing or repairing Acrobat Pro on a Windows system.
- Observed behavior
- The installation or repair process halts with Error 1920, indicating that the Print Spooler service failed to start, despite previous registry repairs and troubleshooting.
Ensure you are logged into Windows with an Administrator account, as modifying system services like the Print Spooler requires elevated privileges. It is also helpful to note your exact Windows and Acrobat versions before proceeding.
Verify Permissions and Start the Print Spooler Service
Check the service dependencies and ensure the Print Spooler has the correct permissions to run on your Windows system.
Error 1920 typically occurs because the Acrobat installer needs to add the Adobe PDF virtual printer, which relies entirely on the Windows Print Spooler. If the spooler lacks permissions or its dependent services are stopped, the installation will fail.
Press the Windows Key + R, type 'services.msc' in the Run dialog, and press Enter to open the Services manager.
Scroll down the list of services and find 'Print Spooler'. Right-click it and select 'Properties'.
Navigate to the 'Dependencies' tab to ensure all required services (such as the Remote Procedure Call) are running. Then, go to the 'Log On' tab and verify it is set to log on as the Local System account.
Return to the 'General' tab, set the Startup type to 'Automatic', and click the 'Start' button. Click 'Apply' and then 'OK'.
Clear Corrupted Print Spooler Files
Corrupted files in the spooler directory can prevent the service from starting. Clearing them can resolve Error 1920.
Try WPS Office for a Hassle-Free PDF Experience
If you are struggling with complex Acrobat installations and persistent Windows service errors, consider switching to WPS Office. It is a lightweight, free alternative that includes a powerful PDF editor alongside Word, Excel, and PowerPoint compatible tools.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS website and click 'Download WPS Office Free'.
- 2. Run the Setup: Open the downloaded file and follow the simple on-screen instructions to install the software seamlessly.
- 3. Open Your PDFs: Launch WPS Office and open your PDF documents directly to start reading or editing without print spooler errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Acrobat require the Print Spooler service to install?
Acrobat installs a virtual printer (Adobe PDF Printer) during setup to allow you to 'print to PDF' from other applications. This virtual printer relies directly on the Windows Print Spooler service to function and install correctly.
What should I do if the Print Spooler service keeps stopping automatically?
If the service stops immediately after starting, it usually indicates corrupted print drivers or stuck print jobs. Clearing the 'C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS' folder and updating your local printer drivers can often resolve this crash loop.
Can I install Acrobat without the Print Spooler service running?
No, the standard Acrobat Pro installation requires the Print Spooler service to be active. If you cannot fix the spooler issue, you may need to use Microsoft's System File Checker (SFC) or consult Microsoft support to repair your Windows installation.
