Knowledge

ERROR_REMOTE_PRINT_CONNECTIONS_BLOCKED - 1936 (0x790)

Remote connections to the Print Spooler are blocked by a policy set on your machine.

Updated: Feb 21, 2026

Technical Background

The error code ERROR_REMOTE_PRINT_CONNECTIONS_BLOCKED (1936, 0x790) is a specific Windows error that indicates remote connections to the Print Spooler service are blocked due to a policy enforced on the system. This error typically arises in scenarios where networked printing or print server functionality is restricted by administrative policies.

Error Details

This error code is associated with the Print Spooler service, which manages and queues print jobs for local and remote printers. When this error occurs, it signifies that a policy has been configured to prevent remote connections to the Print Spooler, likely due to security or network configuration considerations.

Common Causes

  • Administrative Policy: The most common cause is an administrative policy that restricts remote access to the Print Spooler service. This can be set through Group Policy Objects (GPO) or local policies on the system.
  • Network Configuration: Incorrect network configurations might inadvertently block necessary traffic for print server operations, leading to this error.

Real-World Context

This error is particularly relevant in environments where multiple machines share a common printer. Administrators may configure such policies to enhance security by limiting remote access to the Print Spooler service, thereby preventing unauthorized or malicious connections that could exploit network vulnerabilities.

Is This Error Critical?

The criticality of this error depends on the specific use case and administrative policies in place. In environments where remote printing is essential for operations, this error can significantly impact productivity and workflow. However, in highly secured networks, such restrictions are necessary to maintain security standards.

How to Diagnose

  1. Review Administrative Policies: Check if any Group Policy Objects or local policies restrict remote access to the Print Spooler service.
  2. Verify Network Configuration: Ensure that network configurations do not inadvertently block necessary traffic for print server operations.
  3. Check System Logs: Review system event logs for additional context and error messages related to this issue.

How to Resolve

  1. Adjust Administrative Policies: Modify Group Policy Objects or local policies to allow remote connections to the Print Spooler service if required by your environment.
  2. Correct Network Configuration: Ensure that network configurations are correctly set up to support print server operations without blocking necessary traffic.
  3. Restart Services: Restarting the Print Spooler and related services might resolve transient issues.

Developer Notes

Developers should be aware of this error when implementing remote printing functionality in applications. Proper handling of this error can help ensure that users are informed about policy restrictions and provide appropriate fallbacks or alternative solutions.

Related Errors

FAQ

Q: What does the ERROR_REMOTE_PRINT_CONNECTIONS_BLOCKED error mean?

A: This error indicates that remote connections to the Print Spooler service are blocked by a policy set on your machine.

Q: How can I resolve this issue?

A: You may need to adjust administrative policies or network configurations to allow remote access to the Print Spooler service. Restarting related services might also help.

Q: Is this error critical for my system?

A: The criticality depends on your specific use case and security requirements. In environments where remote printing is essential, this error can be critical.

Summary

The ERROR_REMOTE_PRINT_CONNECTIONS_BLOCKED (1936) error indicates that remote connections to the Print Spooler service are blocked by a policy set on the machine. This error is typically caused by administrative policies or network configurations and can impact environments where remote printing functionality is required. Proper diagnosis and resolution involve reviewing and adjusting relevant policies and network settings.