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Q269431: Cannot Print with Error: The Network Name Cannot Be Found

Article: Q269431
Product(s): Microsoft Windows NT
Version(s): winnt:4.0
Operating System(s): 
Keyword(s): 
Last Modified: 11-JUN-2002

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The information in this article applies to:

- Microsoft Windows NT Server version 4.0 
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SYMPTOMS
========

When you attempt to print to a printer connected to a local port, you may
receive the following error message:

  Error writing to "printer_port": for document "document_name:" The network
  name cannot be found.

CAUSE
=====

This behavior can occur when the local printer port is mapped as a network
drive.

RESOLUTION
==========

To resolve this issue, delete the relevant key in the registry.

MORE INFORMATION
================

IMPORTANT: This article contains information about modifying the registry.
Before you modify the registry, make sure to back it up and make sure that you
understand how to restore the registry if a problem occurs. For information
about how to back up, restore, and edit the registry, click the following
article number to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base:

  Q256986 Description of the Microsoft Windows Registry

WARNING: If you use Registry Editor incorrectly, you may cause serious problems
that may require you to reinstall your operating system. Microsoft cannot
guarantee that you can solve problems that result from using Registry Editor
incorrectly. Use Registry Editor at your own risk.

1. Start Registry Editor (Regedt32).

2. Navigate to the following registry location:

  HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Network

3. Select the printer port (LPT or COM port) that is mapped as a network drive.

4. Click Edit, and then click Delete. When you are prompted to confirm deletion
  of the registry key, click Yes.

5. Quit Registry Editor, and then restart the computer.

Additional query words:

======================================================================
Keywords          :  
Technology        : kbWinNTsearch kbWinNT400search kbWinNTSsearch kbWinNTS400search kbWinNTS400
Version           : winnt:4.0
Issue type        : kbprb

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