Few things are more frustrating than trying to print urgently… and seeing the message “Driver Is Unavailable.”
This error is extremely common on Windows computers and usually appears when your printer driver is outdated, corrupted, or incompatible. The good news? You can fix it quickly with the right steps.
WinTech Support is a trusted provider of online computer support — brings you a simple and effective guide to get your printer working again.
What Does “Driver Is Unavailable” Mean?
This error simply means Windows cannot communicate with your printer because the required driver is either:
- Missing
- Damaged
- Outdated
- Incorrect for your printer model
Without a proper driver, your printer cannot receive print commands, which causes connection failures and printing issues.
1. Download the Latest Driver From Official Website
The most effective fix is to reinstall the correct driver directly from the manufacturer.
Go to your printer brand’s official support page (HP, Canon, Epson, Brother), enter your model number, and download the latest Windows-compatible driver.
This eliminates corrupted or unsupported driver files instantly.
2. Remove Old or Corrupted Drivers
Old drivers often conflict with new installations.
To clean them:
- Open Device Manager
- Expand Printers
- Right-click your printer
- Select Uninstall device
- Restart your computer
This refreshes your printer setup completely.
3. Use Windows Update to Reinstall Missing Components
Sometimes Windows automatically installs the correct driver.
Go to:
Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update → Check for updates
Windows will attempt to install printer-related updates and fix compatibility issues.
4. Reset Your Printer and Reconnect It
If your printer firmware has a temporary glitch, it can also trigger the “Driver is Unavailable” error.
- Power off your printer
- Unplug it for 30 seconds
- Restart your Windows computer
- Reconnect the printer using USB or Wi-Fi
This helps clear temporary configuration problems.
5. Add the Printer Again Through Windows Settings
If the issue continues, remove and re-add the printer:
- Go to Settings
- Open Devices
- Click Printers & Scanners
- Remove your printer
- Add it again
This forces Windows to reinstall necessary printer software.
FAQs
1. Is “Driver Is Unavailable” a serious problem?
No — it’s usually a driver compatibility or corruption issue and can be fixed easily.
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?
Windows updates, corrupted driver files, or outdated printer software are common causes.
4. Can wireless printers also show this error?
Yes, both USB and Wi-Fi printers show this message if drivers are not updated.
5. Can WinTechSupport fix driver-related issues?
Absolutely! WinTechSupport provides expert remote assistance for all printer driver errors.
Conclusion
The “Driver Is Unavailable” error usually appears due to outdated or corrupted drivers, but with the right steps — reinstalling drivers, updating Windows, resetting the printer, or removing old files — you can fix the issue quickly.
If the problem persists, WinTechSupport can diagnose and repair it in minutes with professional remote support.
Need Fast Driver Fix?
Contact WinTechSupport today for fast, reliable printer driver assistance and restore your printer’s functionality instantly!