How to Fix the Driver Is Unavailable Error on Your Printer
Few things are more frustrating than trying to print something urgently and seeing the message “Driver Is Unavailable.”
This is a very common printer error on Windows computers and usually appears when the printer driver is outdated, corrupted, or incompatible with your system.
The good news? This issue can be fixed quickly by following the right troubleshooting steps.
What Does “Driver Is Unavailable” Mean?
This error means Windows is unable to communicate with your printer because the required driver is:
- Missing
- Damaged
- Outdated
- Incorrect for your printer model
Without a proper driver, your printer cannot receive print commands, which leads to connection failures and printing problems.
1. Download the Latest Driver From the Official Website
The most effective solution is reinstalling the correct printer driver.
Visit your printer manufacturer’s official support page, enter your printer model number, and download the latest driver compatible with your Windows version. Installing the correct driver instantly removes corrupted or unsupported files.
2. Remove Old or Corrupted Printer Drivers
Conflicting or outdated drivers can prevent your printer from working properly.
Steps to remove old drivers:
- Open Device Manager
- Expand Printers
- Right-click on your printer
- Select Uninstall device
- Restart your computer
This ensures a fresh driver installation without conflicts.
3. Use Windows Update to Restore Missing Components
Windows can automatically install missing or compatible printer drivers.
Go to:
Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update → Check for updates
If printer-related updates are available, Windows will install them and fix compatibility issues.
4. Reset Your Printer and Reconnect It
Temporary firmware or connection glitches can also trigger the “Driver Is Unavailable” error.
Try this quick reset:
- Turn off the printer
- Unplug it for 30 seconds
- Restart your Windows computer
- Reconnect the printer via USB or Wi-Fi
This clears temporary configuration problems.
5. Remove and Add the Printer Again
If the issue still continues, re-adding the printer can help.
Steps:
- Go to Settings
- Open Devices
- Click Printers & Scanners
- Remove your printer
- Click Add a printer or scanner
This forces Windows to reinstall all required printer software.
FAQs
1. Is “Driver Is Unavailable” a serious problem?
No. It’s usually caused by driver corruption or compatibility issues and is easy to fix.
2. Will reinstalling the printer fix the error?
Yes, removing and adding the printer often refreshes all required components.
3. Why does this error appear suddenly?
Common reasons include Windows updates, outdated drivers, or corrupted printer files.
4. Can wireless printers show this error?
Yes. Both USB and Wi-Fi printers can show this message if drivers are missing or outdated.
5. Can professional support fix driver-related issues remotely?
Yes. Remote technical assistance can quickly diagnose and resolve printer driver problems.
Conclusion
The “Driver Is Unavailable” error is usually caused by outdated or corrupted printer drivers. By reinstalling drivers, updating Windows, resetting the printer, or removing old files, you can restore your printer’s functionality quickly.
If the problem persists, expert remote support can diagnose and fix the issue within minutes.
Need Fast Printer Driver Help?
Get professional assistance today for quick, reliable printer driver fixes and hassle-free printing.