Printer Not Working after Windows 11 Update? Here is How to Fix it

Few things are as frustrating as finding your printer has stopped working after a Windows 11 update. Suddenly, documents won't print, error messages pop up, or the printer disappears from your list of devices. These problems are common after major system updates, but they're usually fixable at home. You don't need to replace your printer or roll back your update just yet. Try the solutions below to get your printer working again.

Check Printer Connections and Power

Before diving into software fixes, start with the basics. Confirm that your printer is powered on and all cables are firmly connected. For USB printers, try unplugging and replugging the cable into a different USB port on your PC. If you're using a wireless printer, ensure it’s connected to your Wi-Fi network and that your computer is on the same network.

Printers can sometimes drop their connection during a Windows update. Open the printer’s control panel and check for any obvious errors or warnings. If your printer has a small display, use it to confirm network status or error codes. Solving a loose cable or reconnecting to Wi-Fi is often all it takes to resolve the issue.

Restart the Printer Spooler Service

The Print Spooler is a Windows service that manages print jobs. Updates can sometimes cause it to hang or stop working. Restarting the spooler can quickly resolve stuck print jobs or printers that appear offline.

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Scroll down and find Print Spooler.
3. Right-click it, then choose Restart. Wait a few seconds for the service to restart.

Try printing again. If your printer was stuck, you should now be able to print without further issues. If the Print Spooler won’t start or errors appear, try rebooting your computer and repeating these steps.

Update or Reinstall the Printer Driver

Windows updates can occasionally break existing printer drivers, causing the device to malfunction or disappear. Outdated or incompatible drivers are a common cause of printer problems after an update. Here’s how to update or reinstall your printer driver:

1. Open Device Manager (right-click the Start button and select it).
2. Expand Printers. Right-click your printer and select Update driver.
3. Choose Search automatically for drivers. Follow any prompts.

If this doesn’t help, download the latest driver directly from your printer manufacturer’s website. Uninstall the old driver in Device Manager (right-click and choose Uninstall device), then install the new one from the download. Restart your PC before trying to print again.

Run the Windows Printer Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a built-in troubleshooter specifically for printers. This tool can find and fix common problems automatically, such as incorrect printer settings or missing drivers.

1. Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
2. Find Printer and click Run.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions. The troubleshooter will scan for issues and suggest or apply fixes.

This process can resolve network issues, incorrect configurations, and sometimes even stubborn driver problems. If it finds an issue, follow its recommendations and test your printer afterward.

Remove and Re-Add the Printer

If your printer is still not working, try removing it from Windows and then adding it back. This resets the printer profile and can clear out corrupt settings left over from the update.

1. Open Settings and go to Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
2. Click your printer and select Remove device.
3. Restart your computer.
4. Return to Printers & scanners and click Add device. Windows should automatically detect and reinstall the printer. If not, use the manufacturer’s installation software or select Add manually.

This step is especially effective if your printer is missing from the device list or shows as "offline" even when connected.

Reset Your Printer to Factory Defaults

Sometimes the printer itself holds onto old settings that are no longer compatible with the updated Windows environment. Performing a factory reset on your printer can restore its original configuration and often resolves persistent connection or compatibility issues.

Most printers let you reset from their onboard menu. Check your printer's manual or manufacturer's support site for the exact steps. Typical process: navigate to Settings or Setup, find Reset or Restore Defaults, and follow the prompts. After resetting, reconnect the printer to your network or computer and try printing again.

Check for Pending Windows Updates

Microsoft occasionally releases follow-up patches to fix bugs caused by previous updates. If you're having trouble with your printer, check if another Windows update is available that may address the problem.

Go to Settings > Windows Update and click Check for updates. Install any pending updates and restart your computer. It's not uncommon for printer manufacturers to work with Microsoft to resolve known issues in the weeks after a major update rollout.

Use Manufacturer Support Tools and Forums

If all else fails, check your printer manufacturer’s support website for troubleshooting utilities or firmware updates. Companies like HP, Canon, Epson, and Brother often provide downloadable diagnostic tools that can detect hardware or software issues beyond what Windows finds.

Support forums can also be valuable. Users with the same printer model may have posted specific fixes for issues introduced by the latest Windows 11 update. Search for your printer model and the term 'Windows 11' to see if there are workarounds or firmware updates tailored to your situation.

Frequently asked questions