As it turns out, the issue is much more common on Windows 7 and can occur due to multiple causes. Here’s a quick rundown with the most common culprits:
Corrupted system file Internet Explorer 8 DLL is not properly registeredPrint Spooler service is not runningBluetooth service is not running
If you’re currently struggling with this particular issue, the method below might help. All the potential fixes featured below are confirmed to be working by users finding themselves in a similar situation. Please follow the methods below in order until you encounter a fix that resolves the blank Devices and Printers Folder error in your particular scenario. Let’s begin!
Method 1: Running an SFC Scan
If the issue is related to an underlying corrupted file, an SFC (System File Checker) scan will most likely resolve the issue automatically. Some users have reported that the issue was immediately fixed after the SFC scan was finished and a restart was performed. System File Checker is a utility that allows users to scan for corruptions and restore corrupted files. Here’s a quick guide to running an SFC scan to resolve the “blank Devices and Printers folder” error: If you’re still having the same issue, move down to Method 2.
Method 2: Registering the IE8 DLL
This particular behavior is often attributed to a missing DLL used by Internet Explorer. Some users have managed to resolve the “blank Devices and Printers folder” error by registering the missing the ieproxy.dll using an elevated Command Prompt. Here’s a quick guide to doing this: If you’re still having the same issue, move down to the final method.
Method 3: Enabling the Bluetooth Support and Print Spooler Service
If the first two methods didn’t provide a fix for your particular situation, your computer might be prevented from starting and using the Bluetooth Support service or the Print Spooler service. Some users finding themselves in a similar situation have managed to resolve the issue by using the Services screen and setting the startup type of Bluetooth Support and Print spooler to Automatic. Here’s a quick guide on how to do this:
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