Symptoms
- Error message mentions the driver specifically
- Printouts come out as garbled text or symbols
- Printer install fails or gets stuck
- Printer worked before a Windows or macOS update
Likely causes
- CommonCorrupted or outdated printer driverDrivers can become corrupted after an incomplete update or conflict with a system update.
- CommonWrong driver installed for the exact printer modelSimilar model numbers sometimes have different, incompatible drivers.
- CommonLeftover files from a previous driver installation conflicting with a new oneOld driver remnants can interfere with a clean reinstall.
- PossibleOperating system update changing driver compatibilityMajor Windows or macOS updates sometimes break older printer drivers.
What to do
- Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners (Windows) or System Settings > Printers & Scanners (Mac), remove the printer entirely.
- Download the latest full driver package (not just a basic driver) directly from the manufacturer's support page for your exact model number.
- Restart the computer before reinstalling the driver to clear out any lingering processes.
- Install the fresh driver package and add the printer again, choosing the network or USB connection as appropriate.
- If installation fails partway, use the manufacturer's dedicated uninstall/cleanup tool (many printer brands offer one) before trying again.
- Check Windows Update for an optional printer driver update as an alternative if the manufacturer's own installer keeps failing.
- Test printing a simple document after reinstalling to confirm the driver issue is resolved.
Tools and parts
- None
When to call a pro
If a complete driver removal and clean reinstall from the manufacturer's site still fails or produces errors, contact the manufacturer's support or a technician, since this can indicate a deeper compatibility issue with your specific OS version.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.