Most printers require that you install the latest printer driver so that the printer will work well. If you recently upgraded from an earlier version of Windows, your printer driver might work with the previous version but might not work well or at all with Windows 10. Also, if you’ve experienced power outages, computer viruses, or other problems, your printer driver might be damaged. Downloading and installing the latest printer driver can often resolve these problems.
Download and install the latest printer drivers
Method 1: Using Windows Update
Windows Update might find an updated version of your printer driver. To use it:
- Select Start , then select Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Open Windows Update.
- Select Check for updates.
If Windows Update finds an updated driver, it will download and install it, and your printer will automatically use it. If a device driver couldn’t be installed automatically, there may be an optional driver available that your printer can use.
To check for optional drivers:
- Once the update check is done running, select View optional updates if this is visible.
- On the next screen, expand Driver updates.
- If you see the applicable drivers for your printer, select the updates you want to download and install.
- Select Download and install.
Method 2: Download drivers from printer manufacturer’s website
Check your printer manufacturer’s support site. To find it, search the internet for the name of your printer manufacturer plus the word “support,” such as “HP support.”
Driver updates are often available in the “Drivers” section of a printer manufacturer’s website. Some support sites let you search for your printer model number directly. Locate and download the latest driver for your printer model, then follow the installation instructions on the manufacturer’s website.
Most drivers are self-installing. After you download them, double-click (or double-tap) the file to begin installing it. Then follow these steps to remove and reinstall the printer.
- Select Start , then select Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners.
- Open Printers & scanners.
- Under Printers & scanners, find the printer, select it, and then select Remove device.
- After removing your printer, add it back by selecting Add a printer or scanner. Wait for your device to find nearby printers, select the one you want, and then select Add device.
That’s it!