[SOLVED] Printer Driver Is Unavailable – 7 Proven Strategies to Resolve this Annoying Issue in 2023

by Sachin

KEY INSIGHTS

  • The error “printer driver is unavailable” usually occurs due to outdated drivers, printer spooler service issues, or improper printer connection.
  • Restarting the printer spooler service or updating the printer driver can often solve this problem.
  • For a more detailed approach, follow the below step-by-step solutions.

printer driver is unavailable

What’s the Ideal Scenario Without the printer driver unavailable issue?

In a perfect world, your printer should connect seamlessly to your computer, ready to execute any print job without throwing error messages. The printer driver should always be up-to-date, ensuring fast and high-quality prints.

Case Study: When Does the printer driver unavailable Error happen?

Jane, a freelance graphic designer, recently upgraded her computer’s OS. Post-upgrade, While trying to print a design for a client, she encountered the “printer driver is unavailable” Error.

After hours of troubleshooting, she found that her printer driver was incompatible with the new OS version. By updating the driver, she quickly fixed the issue.

Initial Diagnosis: Have You Tested These Measures?

Before diving deep, always ensure the following:

  • Your printer is correctly connected to the PC.
  • The printer cables are in good condition.
  • Your computer recognizes the printer.

Initial Diagnosis printer-driver-unavailable

The Significance of Rectifying printer driver is unavailable:

Ignoring this Error can halt all your print tasks, disrupt workflow, and might lead to more complex software issues. Addressing it promptly ensures smoother computer operations and extended printer life.

Interactive Guide: 7 Functional Strategies to Address Printer Driver is unavailable:

SOLUTION 1: Check the Printer Connection

  1. Ensure the USB cable is correctly connected to the printer and the PC.
  2. Switch to a different USB port on your computer.

Printer USB connection

SOLUTION 2: Restart Printer Spooler Service

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type “services. msc” and hit Enter.
  3. Find “Printer Spooler” in the list.
  4. Right-click and select “Restart.”

Printer Spooler Service

SOLUTION 3: Update the Printer Driver

  1. Open Device Manager.
  2. Expand ‘Printers.’
  3. Right-click your printer and choose “Update driver.”

Update printer driver in Device Manager

SOLUTION 4: Reinstall the Printer Driver

  1. In Device Manager, right-click on the printer.
  2. Choose “Uninstall.”
  3. Restart your PC.
  4. Visit the printer manufacturer’s website and download the latest drivers.

Reinstall printer driver

SOLUTION 5: Use a Different USB Cable

Sometimes, faulty USB cables can be the culprit. Try replacing the current cable with a new one to see if it solves the problem.

Different USB Cable for Printer

SOLUTION 6: Set Printer as Default

  1. Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners.
  2. Find your printer and select “Manage.”
  3. Click on “Set as default.”

Set printer as default Windows

SOLUTION 7: Contact Manufacturer Support

If none of the above solutions work, contacting your printer’s customer support is best. They might have specific solutions tailored to your printer model.

Contact Manufacturer Support

How to Prevent Printer Driver Unavailable Errors in the Future

Regularly update your drivers and OS to ensure compatibility. Automated driver update tools can help keep your drivers updated without manual intervention.

Final Thoughts:

While the “printer driver is unavailable” Error can be frustrating, the above solutions should help in most scenarios. If the problem persists, seek expert assistance or explore reliable printer management tools.

FAQs

Why does the “printer driver is unavailable” Error occur?

This Error primarily arises due to outdated drivers, issues with the printer spooler service, or improper printer connections.

How can I keep my printer drivers updated?

Utilize automated driver update tools or regularly visit the manufacturer’s website for updates.

Can a faulty USB cable trigger this Error?

Yes, sometimes a damaged USB cable might lead to this Error. Replacing it with a new one can resolve the issue.

Should I contact the printer manufacturer for support?

If none of the solutions work, contacting the printer’s customer support is advisable.

Is setting the printer as the default device a solution?

Sometimes, setting your printer as the default device might solve the Error, especially if multiple printers are connected or configured.

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