How to Fix PDF Opening Repeated Temporary Files Instead of Printing
Question details
The user is trying to print a PDF, but Adobe Acrobat Reader continuously opens temporary files and browser tabs instead of executing the print command.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat Reader
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Attempting to print a PDF file that is opened from or stored in a hidden Windows temporary folder.
- Observed behavior
- Instead of opening the print dialog or sending the document to the printer, the system falls into a loop, repeatedly opening new temporary files and browser tabs.
Ensure you have saved all active work and completely closed all open web browsers and PDF viewer applications before beginning the troubleshooting steps.
Move the PDF to a Standard Directory
Moving the file out of a hidden temporary folder to a standard location like the Desktop resolves path-related loop errors.
Printing directly from a temporary hidden-folder path can cause file permission conflicts and URL generation loops in PDF readers. Changing the file's location to a standard local folder usually corrects the print path.
Open Windows Explorer, navigate to the View tab, and check the box for 'Hidden items' to reveal temporary directories.
Navigate to the temporary folder where the PDF is stored. Right-click the PDF file, select Cut, navigate to your Desktop, right-click an empty space, and select Paste.
Ensure the PDF is not currently open in Adobe Acrobat Reader, any other PDF viewer, or a web browser.
Right-click the newly pasted PDF file on your Desktop and select Print from the context menu.
Clear Temporary Folders and Adjust Reader Preferences
Deleting corrupted temporary files and ensuring Adobe Reader's security settings are correctly configured can stop the looping behavior.
Troubleshoot via Safe Mode and Event Viewer
Running Windows in Safe Mode isolates third-party background processes that might be interfering with the print spooler or CPU.
Use WPS PDF to Open and Print Documents Without Errors
If your current PDF reader continues to loop temporary files, try WPS Office. Its built-in PDF tool provides a lightweight, fast, and secure environment to open, edit, and print PDF documents directly, bypassing complex background temporary path errors.
- 1. Download and Install: Download and install the free WPS Office suite from the official website.
- 2. Open WPS PDF: Launch WPS Office and click on 'PDF' from the home screen to open the dedicated PDF reader.
- 3. Load Your File: Drag and drop your PDF file into the interface, or use File > Open to locate the document on your computer.
- 4. Print Successfully: Click the Print icon in the upper toolbar or press Ctrl+P to securely print your file without looping errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does printing a PDF open multiple browser tabs?
This usually happens when a PDF viewer's file association is incorrectly routed to a browser, or the file is executed from a temporary folder without proper read permissions. The system gets confused and creates an endless loop of requests.
Is it safe to delete the contents of the Windows temporary folder?
Yes, deleting temporary files is safe and often resolves system glitches and frees up disk space. Ensure all programs are closed before doing so, as actively used temp files cannot be deleted.
How do I turn on Protected Mode in Adobe Reader?
Open Adobe Reader, go to Edit > Preferences, select Security (Enhanced) from the left panel, and check the box next to 'Enable Protected Mode at startup'.
Can I print a PDF directly from a web browser without downloading it?
Yes, most modern web browsers have a built-in PDF viewer with print functionality. However, downloading the file to your Desktop and printing from a dedicated PDF viewer often prevents spooling and formatting errors.
