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Fix Printer Driver Unavailable

Date:05:38 AM, Nov 18, 2024 Editor：Seraphina

fix-printer-driver-unavailable

When you attempt to use the printer, you may encounter the error "Printer driver is unavailable". This article provides several methods to fix this error and help you quickly restore printer functionality.

1. Update the Printer Driver

Outdated or corrupted drivers are a common cause of the "Printer driver is unavailable" error. Updating the printer driver in time can effectively prevent this issue. We recommend using Driver Sentry to automatically detect and update drivers, saving time and reducing the risk of downloading or installing incorrect drivers.

Download

Click the download button to get the latest version of Driver Sentry, install it, then open the software and click "Scan".

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After the scan, the software will display which drivers are missing or need updating. Find the printer driver in the list and click the "Upgrade" button.

After the update, it is recommended to restart your computer to ensure the updated driver functions correctly.

2. Check Printer Compatibility

Check the model and specifications of your printer, which are usually found on the printer's casing or in the manual.

Verify if the printer is compatible with your operating system. For example, some older printers may not be compatible with the latest version of Windows.

Visit the printer manufacturer's official website and check the compatibility list for your printer model to ensure it supports your system version.

If the printer is not compatible with the current system, you can try installing a driver in compatibility mode. Some printers offer specific drivers for older devices.

3. Uninstall and Reinstall the Driver

Open "Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features", find the printer-related driver, right-click, and select "Uninstall".

Open File Explorer and delete any residual printer-related files, typically located at: C:\Windows\System32\spool\drivers

clear-printer-related-files

Visit the printer manufacturer's website, download the latest driver for your printer model, and install it.

Follow the installation prompts, then restart your computer and reconnect the printer to check if the issue is resolved.

4. Reconnect the Printer

Turn off the printer and unplug the USB cable between the printer and the computer (or disconnect the wireless connection).

Ensure that the USB cable is not damaged, and the printer port is secure. If it's a wireless connection, ensure the router's signal is stable.

Turn on the printer and reconnect the USB cable to the computer or reconnect it to the Wi-Fi network.

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Go to "Control Panel > Devices and Printers" to confirm that the printer shows as "Connected".

5. Use the Printer Troubleshooter

Go to "Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot".

Click "Additional troubleshooters", select "Printer", and click "Run the troubleshooter".

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The tool will automatically scan for issues that might affect the printer's operation (such as damaged drivers or services not starting) and provide repair suggestions.

Follow the tool's prompts to fix the issues and test the printer again.

6. Update the Operating System

Open Settings and click "Update & Security".

Choose "Windows Update", then click "Check for updates".

If updates are available, click "Download and install" to apply the latest programs.

After the update is complete, restart your computer to ensure the changes take effect.

Try printing again to check if the issue is resolved.