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What is Splwow64.exe & How to Easily Disable It
Disable the splwow64.exe via the Services or Command Prompt
4 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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The SPLwow64.exe process can result in several system errors and cause issues with the system’s performance. So, users are curious about how to deal with it. This guide will discuss all you need to know about the executable component and how to disable it.
Also, you may be interested in our article about whyexe files are not openingon your PC and some fixes to resolve the problem.
What is splwow64.exe?
Splwow64.exe, known as Spooler Windows OS (Windows 64-bit), is a Windows core system file that runs in the background and is not usually visible. It is a Print driver host for applications that acts as a channel between a 32-bit app and a 64-bit Windows OS.
Hence, it resolves compatibility issues between 32-bit apps and the 64-bit spooler utility on any 64-bit OS.
However, the activities of Splwow64.exe on the computer have been reported to be problematic as it causes a series of issues. Some arePrint Spooler high CPU usage, inability to print or use printer utilities, etc. Also, some users suspect the program may be some malware or virus.
Additionally, disabling Splwow64.exe can be beneficial if you don’t have any physical or virtual printer installed on your computer. It doesn’t affect the system performance and can be pretty unnoticeable if not running. So, it is safe to disable it.
How can I disable splwow64.exe?
1. Disable via the Services
Selecting Disabled as the startup type for the Print Spooler prevents it from running when the system boots up. Also, the Stop service status will disable Splwow64.exe on your computer.
Check our comprehensive guide on fixing theLocal Print Spooler service not runningon Windows PCs.
2. Disable via Group Policy Editor
The above steps will prevent the Printer Spooler from establishing or accepting any client connection request and disable the feature. You can read our article about how to fixGroup Policy errorsin Windows PCs.
3. Disable via the Command Prompt
Running the above command will stop Print Spooler Services activities on your computer. Check our guide on how to fixCommand Prompt not workingon your PC.
4. Disable via the System Configuration
In conclusion, check our post about what to do if thePrint Spooler keeps stoppingin Windows 11. Also, you can read about how todelete the printer portson your PC.
If you have further questions or suggestions, kindly drop them in the comments section below.
More about the topics:Printer,System Files
Henderson Jayden Harper
Windows Software Expert
Passionate about technology, Crypto, software, Windows, and everything computer-related, he spends most of his time developing new skills and learning more about the tech world.
He also enjoys gaming, writing, walking his dog, and reading and learning about new cultures. He also enjoys spending private time connecting with nature.
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Henderson Jayden Harper
Windows Software Expert
Passionate about technology, Crypto, software, Windows, and everything computer-related, he spends most of his time developing new skills.
