Printer Driver Is Unavailable? Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix It Quickly

Seeing the Printer Driver Is Unavailable error on your Windows or Mac can be frustrating, especially when you need to print important documents. This issue usually occurs due to outdated, corrupted, or missing printer drivers. Fortunately, there are several ways to fix this problem and get your printer working again1.

What Causes the “Printer Driver Is Unavailable” Error?

This error typically appears due to the following reasons:
✔️ Outdated or corrupted printer drivers – Your system may not recognize the printer due to missing or damaged drivers.
✔️ Incompatible drivers – If the installed driver doesn’t match your printer model, the connection may fail.
✔️ Windows or Mac updates – A recent OS update may cause driver conflicts.
✔️ Incorrect installation – If the printer driver is not installed properly, your computer won’t detect the printer.

Now, let’s go through some effective solutions.

2. How to Fix the “Printer Driver Is Unavailable” Error on Windows

🔹 Solution 1: Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers

1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Printers and right-click on your printer.
3. Choose Update driver and select Search automatically for drivers.
4. If no update is found, right-click the printer again and choose Uninstall device.
5. Restart your computer and reconnect the printer to reinstall the driver automatically.

🔹 Solution 2: Download the Latest Driver from HP/Xerox/Brother/Epson Website

1. Visit your printer manufacturer’s official website.
2. Enter your printer model and download the latest compatible driver.
3. Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
4. Restart your PC and check if the issue is resolved.

🔹 Solution 3: Use Windows Update

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
2. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
3. Restart your computer to apply the changes.

🔹 Solution 4: Run the Printer Troubleshooter

1. Open Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners.
2. Select your printer and click Manage > Run the troubleshooter.
3. Follow the prompts to fix detected issues.

3. How to Fix “Printer Driver Is Unavailable” on Mac

🔹 Solution 1: Remove and Reinstall the Printer

1. Go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners.
2. Select your printer and click Remove (-).
3. Re-add the printer by clicking Add (+) and selecting your printer.

🔹 Solution 2: Update Printer Drivers on Mac

1. Visit the printer manufacturer’s website.
2. Download and install the latest Mac-compatible driver.
3. Restart your Mac and try printing again.

🔹 Solution 3: Reset the Printing System

1. Open System Settings > Printers & Scanners.
2. Right-click anywhere in the printer list and select Reset printing system.
3. Re-add your printer and install the necessary drivers.

Conclusion

The Printer Driver Is Unavailable error can be fixed by updating or reinstalling drivers, running a troubleshooter, or using Windows/Mac system tools. Follow the steps above to restore your printer’s functionality quickly.