Fixing “Error 0x00000709: Operation Could Not Be Completed” Issue on Windows

Encountering the frustrating “Operation could not be completed (error 0x00000709)”when setting a default printer on Windows can be disheartening. Luckily, resolving this issue is straightforward if you follow a systematic approach. Below are proven methods to eliminate this error and ensure your printing tasks run smoothly.

1 Identify Interference From Other Printers

One of the primary reasons for experiencing the 0x00000709 error is the conflict caused by multiple connected printers. To rectify this, disconnect all unnecessary printers and leave only the designated default printer connected. By reducing interference, the chances of encountering this error can diminish significantly.

2 Utilize the Printer Troubleshooter

The integrated printer troubleshooter is a powerful tool designed to diagnose and fix various printing errors, including the default printer issue. This automatic process identifies common problems and offers solutions. Here’s how to run it:

Right-click the Start button and select Settings.
Choose the System tab on the left pane.
In the right section, click on Troubleshoot.
From the next options, select Other troubleshooters.
Locate the Printer troubleshooter and click the Run button adjacent to it.

Allow the troubleshooter to complete its process, then attempt to set your default printer again.

3 Adjust Printer Preferences

Windows often manages the default printer automatically, which can sometimes lead to unintended errors. It’s advisable to disable this feature:

Press Win + I to launch the Settings app.
Navigate to the Bluetooth & devices section on the left.
Click on Printers & scanners in the right panel.
Under Printer preferences, switch off the toggle for Allow Windows to manage my default printer.

Disabling Windows Management of Default Printer

4 Rename the Printer in the Registry Editor

The Registry Editor can be utilized to set the correct printer name, which may resolve the 0x00000709 error. Carefully follow these steps to make adjustments:

Before proceeding, it’s crucial to create a backup. Incorrect changes in the registry can yield significant problems.

Press Win + S and type Registry Editor to open it.
In the Registry Editor’s address bar, navigate to the following path: Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Windows
In the right pane, double-click the Device entry to edit it.
Replace the first entry in the Value data field with the exact name of your printer.
Press OK to confirm your changes.

Make sure to restart your computer to enable the new settings. If the error continues, proceed to the next methods below.

5 Modify RPC Connection Settings

Adjusting your RPC connection settings can also help mitigate the error. Follow these steps to access the Local Group Policy Editor (only applicable for Professional, Education, and Enterprise editions of Windows):

Search for Edit group policy and select it from the results.
Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Printers.
Double-click on Configure RPC connection settings.
Enable this option, then choose RPC over named pipes from the dropdown menu.
Press Apply, then OK.

After applying the changes, restart your device. If issues persist, replicate these steps but choose RPC over TCP, and experiment with the authentication settings as well.

6 Remove the Problematic Windows Update

If the error appeared post-Windows update installation, uninstalling that update may alleviate the issue. Here’s how to proceed:

Open the Settings app using Win + I.
Select Windows Update from the sidebar.
Click Update history on the right.
Choose Uninstall updates under Related settings.
Identify the latest update by its installation date.
Select Uninstall next to the update name, and follow the prompts.

Upon successful uninstallation, confirm if you can set the default printer without complications. A combination of the methods outlined above should resolve the “Operation could not be completed (error 0x00000709)”issue effectively, allowing you to return to your printing tasks seamlessly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why do I get error 0x00000709 when setting a default printer?

This error typically arises due to conflicts with multiple connected printers or issues related to recent Windows updates. Ensuring only the desired printer is connected can help eliminate the error.

2. How can I safely edit the registry to fix printer issues?

It’s essential to back up the registry before making changes. Use the Registry Editor with caution, and ensure you follow the step-by-step instructions carefully to avoid unintentional damage.

3. What if uninstalling the latest Windows update doesn’t fix the problem?

If the issue persists despite uninstalling the update, try re-running the printer troubleshooter, adjusting printer preferences, and ensuring proper RPC connection settings. One of these methods should resolve the error.

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