This article explains how to install or upgrade the printer driver to the latest version in Windows 11.

If you buy an older printeryou might need to download the latest drivers from the manufacturer for optimal performance. Updating printer drivers can enhance functionality and resolve bugs in Windows printer softwareso it’s essential to check for updates regularly.

Installing the latest printer driver in Windows 11 is crucial for ensuring that your printer is compatible with the most recent version of Windows and can take advantage of all the latest features.

Additionallyupdating the driver can resolve any bugs or issues that may have existed in the previous version.

Update printer drivers from Windows Update

There are several methods to upgrade your printer drivers in Windows 11and all of them are effective. One way to obtain the latest drivers for your printer is by using Windows Update.

This feature may locate and install an updated version of your printer driver automatically.

The steps below show you how to update a printer driver.

Windows 11 has a centralized location for the majority of its settings. Everything can be donefrom system configurations to creating new users and updating Windows from its System Settings pane.

To get to System Settingsyou can use the Windows key + I shortcut or click on Start ==> Settings, as shown in the image below:

Alternativelyyou can use the search box on the taskbar to search for Settings. Then select to open it.

In Windows Settingsclick Windows Update and select Check for updates in the right pane of your screenas shown in the image below.

If Windows Update finds an updated driverit will download and install itand your Printer will automatically use it. SometimesWindows will find the latest drivers but not install them.

Click on Advanced options as highlighted below.

Then select Optional updates. If there are optional updatesthey will be listed there. Select the update for your printers and install it.

Download new printer drivers from online.

Printer manufacturers usually release the latest versions of their products on their websites. Check your printer manufacturer’s support site. Search the web for your Printer’s manufacturer product page to find that. Thenlook in the driver’s section and download your printer version.

Most drivers you download online are self-installingallowing you to download their executables and run the installer. After downloading themdouble-click (or double-tap) the file to install it.

Once the driver is installedremove and reinstall the Printer with the latest drivers.

Select the Start buttonthen Settings > Bluetooth & devices  > Printers & scanners.

Under Printers & scanners, find the Printerand select it.

On the printer properties paneclick Remove to remove the current Printer.

Once the Printer is removedgo back to Startthen select Settings > Bluetooth & devices  > Printers & scanners. Under Printer & scannerclick Add a printer or scanner. Wait for your Device to find nearby printerschoose the one you wantand then select Add Device.

This will install the Printer with the newest drivers.

Manually install the Printer’s latest drivers.

If the drivers you downloaded are not self-installingyou will have to update the drivers manually. To manually update your Printer’s driversdo the steps below:

Return to Startthen select Settings > Bluetooth & devices  > Printers & scanners. On the rightunder Related Settingsselect Print Server properties.

On the Drivers tabsee if your Printer is listed. If it isyou’re all set. If you don’t see your Printer listedselect Add.

On the Welcome to the Add Printer Driver Wizardselect Next. Follow the wizard and choose these settings: both x64 and x86 process support.

In the Printer Driver Selection dialog boxselect your printer manufacturer; on the rightselect your printer driverselect Nextand select Finish.

This should get the newly downloaded drivers installed and ready to use.

Conclusion:

• Keeping your printer driver updated is essential for optimal performance and compatibility with Windows 11.
• Regularly check for updates using Windows Update to ensure you have the latest drivers.
• Download drivers directly from the manufacturer’s website for the most recent versions.
• If manual installation is necessaryfollow the outlined steps to ensure successful installation.
• Up-to-date drivers can enhance featuresfix bugsand improve overall printer efficiency.