Share this article

Improve this guide

4 Ways to Fix PCL XL Error Subsystem Kernel on Windows

PCL XL error subsystem KERNEL is caused by a problematic driver

6 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

Share this article

Improve this guide

Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help Windows Report sustain the editorial teamRead more

Key notes

Your computer may encounter errors while communicating with the printer, and one of the errors can bePCL XL error subsystem KERNEL.

It also comes with the message,Suggest to a network administrator to change the printer settings to use the STANDARD printer driver for that make of printerso it’s pretty explanatory.

PCL XL, or PCL 6, is a powerful driver used to print documents on printers, but let’s find out why this happens.

Why do I get a PCL XL error on my printer?

After seeing the error message, the problem is clear and has one main reason. The PCL XL error subsystem KERNEL is caused either because the printer driver is corrupted or it’s incompatible.

However, it may also be caused by a fonts mismatch between the PC and the printer (which is also a driver issue), or connection malfunctions (which include the port that the printer is connected to).

Do what the message says if you’re working in a controlled office environment. Communicate the problem to the system administrator, which will remedy this issue.

When working on your own printer and Windows device, you can resolve the problem by following the steps below, one by one.

How do I fix the PCL XL error subsystem KERNEL?

Before starting the actual troubleshooting, make sure you perform the following simple tasks:

Also note that when printing specific documents on an HP printer, you may see an error message that says PCL Xl error kernel illegaloperatorssequence. This could happen if the printer cannot process specific parts of the document. It could be fonts or images that are embedded.

1. Rename the files associated with your printer

2. Update your printer driver

Ensure yourprinter driver is updatedto the latest version with recommendations from the manufacturer. If your printer came with a disc, install the available software. It will help you install the drivers or check for drivers update.

Another approach is to download the driver from the manufacturer’s website and obtain the correct version.

Ensure you get the standard driver for your printer that is also compatible with your system and processor to avoid system instability issues in the future.

Of course, the manual approach can be tedious and time-consuming. A better alternative is to use a tool that does that automatically. That being said, we recommend Outbyte Driver Updater, a quick, easy-to-use tool that will scan your PC for missing and old drives and let you decide which one to update.

Outbyte Driver Updater

3. Change the printing settings on your computer

4. Use the printer troubleshooter

How do I reinstall a printer driver on Windows 11?

These steps will uninstall the printer drivers. It’s now time to reinstall them to your PC.

Reinstall the printer driver.

If the procedure fails, we have a comprehensive guide on what to do if youcan’t install the printer on Windows 11.

The above fixes can help solve your printer and driver issues and the errors that might cause their malfunction, including PCL XL error subsystem KERNEL error missing attribute reported in many printing systems.

If nothing works, you can seek the assistance of a computer or printer technician to help you handle the issues since they got adequate skills.

Feel free to tell us which fix worked for you in resolving the PCL XL error subsystem KERNEL. Leave a message in the comment section. We would be glad to hear your feedback.

4 Ways to Fix PCL XL Error Subsystem Kernel on Windows#

Why do I get a PCL XL error on my printer?#

How do I fix the PCL XL error subsystem KERNEL?#

1. Rename the files associated with your printer#

2. Update your printer driver#

Outbyte Driver Updater#

3. Change the printing settings on your computer#

4. Use the printer troubleshooter#

How do I reinstall a printer driver on Windows 11?#