How to Fix "Printer Driver is Unavailable" Error on HP & Canon

There is nothing more annoying than trying to print an urgent document only to see the message "Printer Driver is Unavailable" pop up on your screen. Whether you are using an HP LaserJet or a Canon PIXMA, this error usually means your computer is having trouble communicating with the printer due to a corrupted or missing file.

The good news is that your printer is likely physically fine. This is a software glitch that happens frequently after Windows updates. We can resolve this by refreshing the driver connection. Follow the steps below to get your printer running again.

Method 1: Use the Official Manufacturer Support Tool (Recommended)

For HP and Canon printers, the manual Windows update feature often fails to find the specific driver needed for your model. The most effective fix is to use the official support tool provided by the manufacturer. These tools scan your device, detect the missing "unavailable" driver, and install the correct version automatically.

If you are using an HP printer, the "HP Support Assistant" is the standard tool for this. For Canon, you need to select your specific model from their official driver list.

Please select the tool matching your printer brand below to start the automatic repair.

Method 2: Reinstall the Printer via Settings

If you do not want to download extra tools, you can try to reset the printer connection within Windows. This forces the system to forget the "unavailable" status and look for the printer again.

1. Press the Windows Key + I to open Settings.

2. Go to Bluetooth & devices and then select Printers & scanners.

3. Click on your HP or Canon printer in the list and select Remove.

4. Once removed, click the "Add device" button at the top. Windows should detect your printer again and attempt to install a fresh driver.

Method 3: Check for Optional Windows Updates

Sometimes the driver is actually waiting in a hidden section of Windows Update. Microsoft categorizes some printer drivers as "Optional" rather than mandatory.

1. Go to Settings > Windows Update.

2. Click on Advanced options.

3. Select Optional updates.

4. Look for "Driver updates" and see if there is a file related to HP or Canon. If so, check the box and click "Download & install".

Important Notes Before You Start

Please ensure your printer is turned on and connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your computer before trying these fixes. If you use a USB cable, try unplugging it and plugging it into a different USB port, as a faulty port can sometimes trigger the "Driver Unavailable" error.

Also, if you recently upgraded to Windows 11, your old printer might require a specific "Universal Print Driver" which can be found on the manufacturer's website linked above.