How to View Your Printed Document History on Windows

Have you ever needed to check what documents you’ve printed from your Windows computer? Maybe you’re trying to find a file you printed a while back, or you want to see if someone else has been using your printer. Windows can keep track of your printed document history, but it’s not something you can see right away—you need to turn it on first. Once it’s set up, checking your print history is easy and super helpful for staying organized or solving printer problems.

In this blog, we’ll explain how to view your printed document history on Windows in simple steps. We’ll show you how to switch on the history feature and where to find it, whether you’re using Windows 10 or 11.

Where is the History of Printed Documents Saved?

The history of printed documents is stored in different locations based on the method you are using to track the prints. For example, Windows logs printing activities in the Event Viewer, while detailed print logs can be found in the Print Management tool. Third-party software might store print logs in its database.

• Windows Event Viewer: Logs are stored in the Windows Event Viewer under Windows Logs > Application.
• Print Management: Logs can be accessed within the Print Management tool under Print Servers > [Your PC] > Printer Queues.
• Third-Party Software: Logs are saved in the software’s database or in a file that can be exported for review.

The location depends on whether you're using native Windows tools or third-party applications, and how you've set up logging or monitoring features.

Needs to View Printer History on Windows

• Track Important Prints: You might need to find a document you printed, like a receipt, ticket, or form, to confirm it was done or to reprint it if lost.
• Monitor Printer Use: If you share a printer, checking the history helps you see who’s been printing and what, keeping tabs on usage.
• Troubleshoot Problems: If a print job failed or didn’t come out right, the history can show you what went wrong or if it even went through.
• Organize Work: For projects or jobs, knowing what you’ve printed helps you stay on top of tasks and avoid duplicates.
• Verify Actions: You may need proof of printing something, like for work or school, and the history gives you that record.

How to View Printer History on Windows 10 and 11

Note: The methods for viewing the printer history are the same for both Windows 10 and Windows 11. You can follow the steps below for either version.

In both Windows 10 and 11, you can view the printed document history by using built-in tools like Event Viewer or Print Management. These methods allow you to check which documents were printed, when they were printed, and by which printer.

Method 1: Using the Event Viewer

The Event Viewer is a built-in Windows tool that logs various system events, including printing activities. By filtering the right logs, you can view the printed document history.

Step 1: Open Event Viewer

• Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
• Type eventvwr.msc and press Enter.

Step 2: Navigate to Applications and Services Logs

• Applications and Services Logs > Microsoft > Windows.

Step 3: PrintService

• Now locate the PrintService folder within the Windows folder.

Step 4: Go to Operational > Properties

• Right-Click on Operational then click on properties > Tick on Enable logging.
• Click on Apply then hit OK.

Step 5: Examine Document Details

• Click on any event to see detailed information about the printed document, including the document name and time.

Method 2: Using Print Management

Print Management is another tool available in both Windows 10 and 11, allowing you to view detailed print logs, including the document name, status, and user information.

Step 1: Open Print Management

• Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
• Type printmanagement.msc and press Enter.

Step 2: Navigate to Print Server

• In the Print Management window, expand Print Servers.
• Go to Test(Local), then go to Printers.

Step 3: Select Printer and View History

• Click on the printer for which you want to view history.
• You will see a log of recent print jobs with information like the job status, time, and user.

Method 3: Using Third-Party Tools

If you want more advanced features or easier access to print logs, third-party tools can provide enhanced printing logs and tracking capabilities.

Step 1: Download a Third-Party Tool

• Tools like PaperCut or Print Inspector can track print jobs in more detail.
• Download and install one of these tools based on your preference.

Step 2: Configure the Tool and View the Logs

• Follow the tool’s setup instructions to integrate with your printer and track print history.
• After setting it up, open the third-party tool and navigate to the log section to view detailed printing history.

Troubleshooting Tips

Sometimes, you may encounter issues when trying to view your printer history. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

• Print History Not Showing Up: Make sure that the print logging feature is enabled on your printer. In Event Viewer or Print Management, ensure that you've applied the correct filters for print-related events.
• Logs are Not Detailed Enough: Some printers may not log detailed information. Consider using third-party tools for enhanced logging features.
• Unable to Open Event Viewer or Print Management: Check if your user account has administrative privileges. If not, try logging in as an administrator.
• Logs Show Incorrect Information: This could happen if the printer’s configuration is incorrect. Double-check printer settings or reset the printer queue.

Also Read:

• Windows 11 vs. Windows 10

Conclusion

Viewing printer history in Windows can be an essential way to monitor printing activities, troubleshoot issues, or maintain documentation. Both Windows 10 and 11 provide several built-in methods such as Event Viewer and Print Management, as well as third-party tools for more comprehensive logging. Make sure to explore the methods above and choose the one that best suits your needs.