Question : windows shared printers over ipsec vpn - one works, the other doesn't

Hi,

I have a bit of a weird one. I have a client with an IPSEC VPN network between three sites: A<-->B and A<-->C.

There is a server at A running software that needs to print on printers at B & C. The VPN network is set up between the routers (Snapgear SG300s) and permits sufficient SMB(?) traffic to allow folder sharing, but not network browsing. i.e. I can see \\10.0.1.2\shared from 10.0.0.1 by entering the direct share UNC into explorers addres bar.

Similarly, I have been able to (apparently) connect shared printers. All seems fine.

There are two printers at each 'remote' site, a dot matrix docket printer, and a laser printer.

The dot matrix printer prints remotely just fine, but the laser printer will not. There are no errors in the event logs, no messages no nothing. The print job appears to go, but never turns up printed.

Any ideas? Or suggestions where to look?

Would it be related to the fact that the printers that don't work (Samsing CLP-310) are GDI printers?

Any suggestions welcome.

Answer : windows shared printers over ipsec vpn - one works, the other doesn't

Good Morning,

Check your Printers directory in C:\WINDOWS\system32\spool\PRINTERS. If there are any files in their, stop your Print Spooler service in Services.msc.  Also, try changing the driver to Print directly to the printer instead of spooling and see what happens.

LJ