How to install or update a printer driver in Windows
Since January 2026, Microsoft stopped automatically distributing new third-party printer drivers through Windows Update — so downloading the driver directly from the manufacturer's site is now the most reliable method, especially for a new or freshly reinstalled printer.
Method 1: the manufacturer's site (most reliable in 2026)
Find the exact printer model
The full model name (e.g., "HP LaserJet Pro M404dn," not just "HP LaserJet") is on a sticker on the printer's housing or in the "Information" menu on its screen.
Download the driver from the manufacturer's support site
Go to the official support site for your manufacturer (HP, Canon, Epson, Brother, and others), search for the exact model, and download the latest Windows 11 driver. This is currently the most reliable method, especially for older printer models.
Method 2: Device Manager (for an already-installed printer)
Open Device Manager
Right-click the Start button and choose "Device Manager," then expand the "Print queues" section.
Update the driver
Right-click your printer and choose "Update driver." If you've already downloaded a driver from the manufacturer's site, choose "Browse my computer for drivers" and point it to the downloaded file.
An important change since January 2026
Microsoft stopped distributing new third-party printer drivers through Windows Update. If you connect a new printer, replace a device, or reinstall Windows, the system may no longer find a driver automatically — even if it worked without issue before. Printers that already have a driver installed aren't affected by this change.
When it's a job for IT
- The manufacturer's site no longer offers a Windows 11 driver (a very old printer model) — a universal driver workaround may be needed.
- Driver installation fails even after downloading the correct version.
- The printer is part of a larger company setup (a print server, a domain) — it's best to leave the update to IT so the existing configuration doesn't break.
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