Before you begin
- The exact model, connection type, and official support page.
- Administrator permission if Windows requests it.
- A stable USB cable or a printer already connected to the intended local network.
Important Cautions
- Removing a printer can reset local settings and removes that queue's pending jobs.
- Do not install packages from download aggregators or packages meant for adjacent printer models.
- Workplace-managed queues can be restored or controlled by policy; ask the organization’s support team rather than bypassing management.
Prepare a clean, recoverable reinstall
Reinstalling is most useful when the printer is known to be reachable and there is evidence of a Windows-side problem: a damaged queue, a wrong installed model, missing supported options, or a manufacturer instruction. Before removing anything, record the queue name, default paper choices, connection type, and network address or shared-printer name where shown.
Confirm that the printer is ready. For USB, use a direct known-good cable connection where practical. For a network printer, check its panel or configuration page and confirm that the PC is on the intended local network. If the printer cannot make its own report, resolve that device problem before reinstalling Windows support.
Remove the queue and add the printer again
Microsoft documents printer removal and installation through Windows Settings. This can let Windows use its supported driver path without a separate download. If an official manufacturer package is needed for a supported feature, keep it ready but do not run it until you have confirmed that it matches both the model and Windows 11.
On ARM PCs, Microsoft warns that some manufacturer installers may fail to add printers. In that situation, use Settings to add the device unless the manufacturer provides different official guidance for the model.
- In Settings, open Bluetooth & devices, then Printers & scanners, and select the affected printer.
- Choose Remove and confirm; keep your recorded settings for reference.
- Return to Printers & scanners, choose Add device, and allow Windows to look for the ready printer.
- If Windows finds it, add the correct device and send a short test job.
- If a manufacturer package is required, download it only from the exact model's official page and follow its instructions.
Validate the new queue before adding more software
Expected result: the newly added queue appears in Printers & scanners, a small job leaves the queue, and the printer produces it. Restore only the preferences you need after that basic check. This staged approach distinguishes a successful Windows queue reinstall from an application or feature-setting issue.
If the printer is not found, do not repeatedly reinstall. Check the USB connection or the printer's local-network state, then use Microsoft’s add-printer troubleshooting route. If it is found but jobs remain pending, inspect the selected queue and port or shared-printer availability. If a model-matched official package fails, save its error wording and contact the manufacturer; choosing another model's package can make the setup less clear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need the manufacturer's full application to print?
Not always. Microsoft says many printers install without special software. A model-specific application may add features, but basic printing can use Windows-supported installation when available.
Why did Windows create two printer entries?
They may represent different discovery paths or old queues. Compare their connection and print a small job before removing an entry you still need.