📅 February 11, 2025

Windows

Alex Ruben

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How to Fix Operation Could Not Be Completed Error 0x00000bc4: No Printers Found

In this guide, you will learn how to resolve the “Operation Could Not Be Completed Error 0x00000bc4” and the “No Printers Were Found” error. These issues can disrupt your printing tasks on Windows, but with a few steps, you can restore your printer functionality. Follow the step-by-step instructions below to diagnose and fix the problems effectively.

Step 1: Enable Print and Document Services

First, ensure all necessary print services are enabled:

1. Open the Control Panel and navigate to Programs and Features.
2. Click on Turn Windows Features on or off.
3. Enable the following options:
   • Turn on Internet Printing Client
   • Turn on LPD Print Service
   • Turn on LPR Port Monitor

Step 2: Clear and Reset the Printer Spooler

Next, clear the contents of the Printer Spooler to fix any print job issues:

1. Open File Explorer and navigate to C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS.
2. Delete all files within the PRINTERS folder.

Step 3: Restart the Print Spooler Service

Now, restart the Print Spooler Service:

1. Open Run dialog by pressing Win + R.
2. Type services.msc and hit Enter.
3. Find Print Spooler in the list and right-click to select Restart.

Step 4: Change Group Policy Settings

Adjust the Group Policy settings to facilitate printer connectivity:

1. Open Group Policy Editor by typing gpedit.msc in Run.
2. Navigate to Computer Configuration \ Administrative Templates \ Printers.
3. Configure the following settings:
   • RPC Connection Settings: Set RPC over named pipes
   • RPC Listener Settings: Set RPC over TCP
   • RPC over TCP Port: Set value to 0

Step 5: Run the Printer Troubleshooter

Utilize the built-in troubleshooter for printers:

1. Type Troubleshoot in the Windows search bar and hit Enter.
2. Select Additional Troubleshooters.
3. Click on Printer and then click Run the troubleshooter.
4. Follow the prompts and apply any proposed fixes.

Step 6: Modify the Registry Settings

Change specific Registry values to address print connectivity:

1. Open the Registry Editor by typing regedit in Run.
2. Naviagte to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows NT\Printers.
3. Ensure the following entries are set:
   • RpcOverNamedPipes value data: 1
   • RpcOverTcp (default) value data: 0

Step 7: Update Printer Drivers

Outdated printer drivers can cause connectivity issues. Ensure your printer drivers are updated:

1. Right-click on Start and select Device Manager.
2. Expand the Printers section, right-click on your printer, and choose Update driver.

Step 8: Enable Full Sharing Access

Configure your network sharing settings:

1. Open the Control Panel and go to Network and Sharing Center.
2. Click on Advanced settings.
3. Expand the All Networks options.
4. Toggle Turn off password-protected sharing.

Step 9: Add Printer Manually

If the printer is still not found, you can add it manually:

1. Search for Devices and Printers and open it.
2. Click on Add a printer.
3. Select The printer that I want isn’t listed.
4. Choose Select a shared printer by name.
5. Browse and select the shared printer, then click Next to complete the process.

Extra Tips & Common Issues

Here are some extra tips and common issues to keep in mind while troubleshooting:

• Always ensure Windows updates are applied, as they may contain essential fixes.
• If you encounter any issues, try restarting your computer after making changes.
• Check for proper network connectivity if using a network printer.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the “Operation Could Not Be Completed Error 0x00000bc4” and the “No Printers Were Found” errors. If problems persist, consider consulting your printer manufacturer or a technical support professional for additional assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes the error 0x00000bc4?

This error generally occurs due to misconfigured printer settings, outdated drivers, or issues with the printer spooler service.

How do I know if my printer driver is outdated?

You can check for outdated drivers by visiting the manufacturer’s website or checking the Device Manager for updates.

Can these steps fix network printer issues as well?

Yes, many of these troubleshooting steps apply to network printers, especially those related to sharing and driver updates.

Related Guides:

• How to Reset the Registry to Default Settings in Windows 11
• How to Fix Network Password Credentials Issues in Windows 10/11
• How to Download and Install HP LaserJet Pro 4003 Network Printer on Windows
• How to Force Update Group Policy Settings in Windows 10
• How to Restore Default Registry Settings in Windows 10/11