6 Ways to Fix the “Operation Could Not Be Completed (0x00000709)” Printer Error

Setting a default printer in Windows seems like a simple task — until something goes wrong. One common issue users encounter is the “Operation could not be completed (error 0x00000709)” message.

The error might look intimidating, but the good news is: it’s usually easy to fix. Below are six methods that can help you resolve the issue and get back to printing.

Disconnect Unnecessary Printers

If you have several printers connected, Windows might get confused when trying to set one as the default. To avoid conflicts, unplug or remove all other printers except the one you want to use. Then try setting it as the default again — the error should go away.

Run the Built-In Printer Troubleshooter

Windows includes a troubleshooter that can automatically detect and fix common printing issues — including this one.

→ Right-click the Start button and select Settings
→ Go to System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters
→ Find Printer and click Run

Once the scan is complete, try setting the default printer again.

Disable Automatic Printer Management

By default, Windows manages the default printer automatically based on your last used device — which can lead to confusion and errors. It’s best to disable this feature:

→ Press Win + I to open Settings
→ Go to Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners
→ Scroll down and turn off Let Windows manage my default printer

Rename the Printer in the Registry

Sometimes Windows needs you to manually specify the correct printer name. You can do this through the Registry Editor — but be careful, as incorrect changes can affect system stability. Always back up the registry before making changes.
1. Press Win + S and search for Registry Editor

2. Run it as administrator

3. In the address bar, paste this path:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Windows

4. On the right, double-click the Device key

5. Enter the exact name of your printer in the value field

6. Click OK, close the editor, and restart your computer

If the error persists, move on to the next step.

Change RPC Connection Settings

If your printer is already connected to the network but the error remains, try adjusting RPC (Remote Procedure Call) settings via the Group Policy Editor. Note: this only works on Windows Pro, Education, or Enterprise editions — not on Home.

1. Open the Start menu and search for Edit Group Policy
2. Navigate to Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Printers
3. Open Configure RPC connection settings
4. Enable the policy and select RPC over named pipes from the dropdown
5. Save and restart your computer

If it doesn’t help, reopen the policy and try RPC over TCP, or adjust the authentication setting.

Uninstall the Problematic Windows Update

If the error started after a recent Windows update, the update itself might be the cause. Rolling it back can resolve the issue.

1. Press Win + I and go to Windows Update
2. Click Update history → Uninstall updates
3. Find the most recent update (check the date)
4. Click Uninstall and follow the instructions

After uninstalling, try setting your default printer again.

Still can’t set a default printer? Yes, it’s annoying — but if the printer itself is fine, one of these methods should do the trick. Hopefully, you’ll be printing smoothly again in no time.