Fix printer not found and printer not recognized errors in Windows — by Microsoft Support
beginnerpageLink only (©)
Steps for Windows 10 and 11 when a printer cannot be found or recognised, from checking cables and Wi-Fi to restarting the Print Spooler, updating the driver and re-adding the printer.
Quick steps
- Check USB, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connection
- Restart the Print Spooler service
- Update or reinstall the printer driver
- Run the Get Help printer troubleshooter
- Set it as default, or remove and re-add the printer
Paraphrased from the source. Menus can differ by version, so check the original for full details.
Source: Fix printer not found and printer not recognized errors in Windows by Microsoft Support. Licence: Link only (©).
- Source reviewed
- 2026-11-02
- Link checked
- 2026-11-02
- Tested hands-on
- Not by Oddbyte.Me