Printing a PDF Only Opens a Save As Dialogue Box

Summary

Steps to follow if you are being prompted to 'Save as' instead of printing a PDF.

Body

Problem Overview

When attempting to print a document from Adobe Acrobat or Adobe Reader, a "Save As" dialog box appears instead of sending the document to the physical printer.

Cause

This behavior typically occurs if the Print to File option is enabled in the Adobe print settings, or if the default destination is set to a virtual PDF printer rather than a physical device.

Solution

The problem is most likely due to a particular setting being inadvertently set.

  1. Open your PDF in Adobe Acrobat or Reader.
  2. Press Ctrl + P (or go to File > Print) to open the print dialog box.
  3. Click on the Advanced button (located near the printer selection or properties).

  1. Look for the check box labeled Print to file and uncheck it.

  1. Click OK, then click Print.
  2. If the issue continues, check the Printer drop down menu in the main print dialog to ensure your actual physical printer is selected instead of Adobe PDF or Microsoft Print to PDF.

To verify the fix was successful, send a test document to print; it should print directly to paper without prompting you to save a file.

Still Need Help?

If you continue to experience issues after following these steps, please reach out to IT Support Services:

  • Phone: 531-622-2900

  • Email: itsupportservices@mccneb.edu

Details

Details

Article ID: 4150
Created
Fri 9/11/26 1:21 PM
Modified
Fri 9/11/26 1:23 PM