How to Fix Printer Driver Unavailable Error

🗓️ Posted on April 22, 2026

How to Fix Printer Driver Unavailable Error
The “Printer Driver Unavailable” error is a common issue that prevents your printer from working properly. When this happens, your computer fails to communicate with the printer, and print jobs won’t go through. This issue can occur with popular brands like HP, Canon, Epson, and Brother.                                                                                                                                                                                                           

Why Does Printer Show Driver Unavailable?

  • Outdated or incompatible printer drivers
  • Corrupted driver files
  • Printer not installed correctly
  • Windows update conflicts
  • Connection issues (USB or Wi-Fi)

Step 1: Restart Printer and Computer

Before applying advanced fixes, try a basic restart.

Steps:

  • Turn OFF the printer
  • Restart your computer
  • Turn the printer back ON

Step 2: Check Printer Connection

Ensure your printer is properly connected.

Steps:

  • For USB: reconnect cable or try another port
  • For Wi-Fi:
    • Ensure printer is connected to Wi-Fi
    • Confirm both devices are on the same network

Step 3: Remove and Reinstall Printer

Incorrect installation can cause driver errors.

Steps:

  • Open Settings
  • Go to Printers & Scanners
  • Select your printer → Click Remove Device
  • Restart your system
  • Add the printer again

Step 4: Update Printer Driver

Outdated drivers are the most common cause.

Steps:

  • Open Device Manager
  • Expand Printers
  • Right-click your printer → Update Driver
  • Select Search automatically

Step 5: Install Latest Driver Manually

If update doesn’t work, install manually.

Steps:

  • Visit official website (HP, Canon, Epson, Brother)
  • Search your printer model
  • Download latest driver
  • Install and restart system

Step 6: Restart Print Spooler Service

This service manages printer communication.

Steps:

  • Press Win + R
  • Type services.msc → Enter
  • Find Print Spooler
  • Right-click → Restart

Step 7: Run Windows Update

System updates may fix compatibility issues.

Steps:

  • Open Settings
  • Go to Windows Update
  • Click Check for Updates
  • Install all updates

Step 8: Check Printer Compatibility

Older printers may not support latest OS.

Steps:

  • Check your printer model on official website
  • Download compatible or universal drivers

Step 9: Clear Old Drivers (Advanced Fix)

Old or conflicting drivers can cause issues.

Steps:

  • Press Win + R → type printui /s /t2
  • Remove old printer drivers
  • Restart system
  • Install fresh driver

Step 10: Print a Test Page

After fixing the issue, verify printer status.

On Windows:

  • Go to Printers & Scanners
  • Select printer → Manage
  • Click Print Test Page

On Mac:

  • Go to Printers & Scanners
  • Select printer
  • Print test page

Troubleshooting Tips

1. Driver Still Unavailable

  • Reinstall driver again
  • Use official drivers only

2. Printer Not Detected

  • Check cable or Wi-Fi connection
  • Try different USB port

3. After Windows Update Issue

  • Reinstall driver
  • Use updated version

4. Frequent Driver Errors

  • Avoid third-party drivers
  • Keep system updated

Pro Tips

  • Always download drivers from official websites
  • Keep printer firmware updated
  • Avoid using outdated drivers
  • Restart printer occasionally

Conclusion

The Printer Driver Unavailable error is usually caused by driver or compatibility issues. By reinstalling the correct driver and checking connections, you can quickly resolve the problem and get your printer working again without interruptions.