How to Fix: Print Spooler Error 1053

How to Fix: Print Spooler Error 1053
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?03-15-2013 12:49 PM - edited ?03-15-2013 12:55 PM

Are you getting an error when trying to restart the print spooler?  Did your printer spooler error out and now won't restart?

Have you seen "Error 1053: The service did not respond to the start or control request in a timely fashion."?

There is a Microsoft support page with information about this error that can be found here.

According to Microsoft:

Cause: The ServiceBase class calls the OnStop method directly from the Service command handler that is defined in the ScDispatcherLoop of the Advapi32.dll file. After 30 seconds, if the ScDispatcherLoop thread is not ready to receive a new service command from the service control manager, Windows Service Controller marks the service as "time out." Therefore, you receive this error message.
Resolution: To resolve this problem, obtain the latest service pack for the Microsoft .NET Framework.

This resolution does work for some and allows the service to return to proper functionality.  However, I would like to provide some workaround steps incase this option does not work for some.

Open the Run command by selecting it under the start menu or by pressing the Windows Key (left of alt)+ R
Type services.msc and press Enter
Scroll down and double left click on Print Spooler
Select the Log On tab
Uncheck the box for Allow service to interact with desktop
Click Apply
Select the General Tab for the Print Spooler and select Start
I have confirmation that this workaround solution does work for some users.