However, a new problem has arrived alongside it. This bug affects network printers, preventing users from printing wirelessly using this method. Despite following the usual steps, ‘0x00000709’ or ‘Element not found’ error messages have often been appearing. It’s important to note that not all Windows 10 devices are affected, but it does seem widespread. Printer-related issues have plagued Windows 10 in recent months. They primarily relate to the ‘PrintNightmare’ vulnerability, but there have been other problems concerning the printer spooler – both can be used to gain remote access to affected devices without the user’s permission. Windows 11 isn’t immune, either. The first printer bugs on the new OS prevent some users from installing printers properly, while some Brother printers aren’t working via a USB connection. While we wait for Microsoft to fix the latest Windows 10 issue, here’s what you can try.
How to fix the Windows 10 KB5006670 network printer bug
Despite Microsoft being aware of the issue, we don’t know how soon a patch for the bug will be available on affected devices. In the meantime, here are four potential solutions if you rely on network printing:
Uninstall the update
This is the obvious one, although it will also remove those vulnerability fixes mentioned earlier: The same method can also be used to uninstall any recent update, provided you know the build number.
Remove affected printers and reinstall them
This is another common solution when things go wrong, but reinstalling the printers with admin rights could help the printer work again: It’s definitely worth trying this method, but it can mean workstations need to be reconfigured on a device-by-device basis. In business environments, this may prove extremely time-consuming.
Enable CopyFiles (HP printers only)
Microsoft disabled the CopyFiles feature by default in September 2021, but some HP printers still rely on it. However, there’s a way to manually enable it again:
Related articles for further reading
Microsoft releases patch for AMD-related Windows 11 performance issues Windows 10’s KB5004945 update should be installed immediately (July 2021) Windows 10 hit by another printer vulnerability (July 2021) Should I still buy a Windows 10 laptop or PC?
As the resident expert on Windows, Senior Staff Writer Anyron’s main focus is PCs and laptops. Much of the rest of his time is split between smartphones, tablets and audio, with a particular focus on Android devices.
