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Several instances of the unavailable printer driver error are linked to a software upgrade. Why Does My Printer Say “Driver is Unavailable”? Though a generic driver likely won’t function as well as a dedicated one, it’s still better than nothing. This gives you an extra option if you’re unable to use the printer-specific driver for whatever reason. Hence, the PC may not detect the printer if you’ve installed the wrong driver or wrongly configured the correct one.Įven so, some printer modelscan use the generic printer drivers built into Windows 10. Each driver is optimized to get the best out of its counterpart printer. Most printers, especially the newest ones, have dedicated drivers on Windows 10. Without it, no printing, scanning or copying job can happen. It also decodes print instructions into a language that the printer can understand. The printer driver links the OS to your printer so the former can read and understand the hardware specifications and abilities of the latter.
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Without it, your computer cannot communicate with the device and may display an error message like “Driver is Unavailable.” It acts as an interface between the hardware and the operating system. Printer Says Driver Is Unavailable, Explainedīefore we delve deep into the definition of the error, let’s begin with understanding what a driver is.Ī driveris a software program that allows your computer to communicate with a specific device. There are easy fixes that will make your printer start working again in no time. The error can appear on many printers, though HP printer users have made the most reports. If the issue occurs on your Windows 10, don’t let it deter you. If the problem goes unresolved you will not be able to carry out print jobs. Still, most of the time, the “printer driver is unavailable” error boils down to a software issue linked to the printer driver installed on the computer.
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Dust, dirt, paper bits and caked ink may also cause obstructions and even damage the printer. A printer that has fallen into disuse or underuse may also not work so well when put back in action. It could be due to wear and tear on an old printing device.
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Of course, not every printer issue is software-related. It could even be that the printer driver became faulty and stopped responding to system commands. If a reliable printer suddenly malfunctions and throws up that error message, it may be linked to an outdated or incompatible driver. With it, you can print, scan and copy documents and share them around. The printer remains an important tool, especially in the office. While using your printer, you might get an error message saying that your “Printer driver is unavailable”.
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