To reinstall your printer on your computer, you generally need to first uninstall the existing printer driver and software, then add the printer again either automatically or manually, installing the correct driver if required.
Here is a step-by-step summary based on common Windows procedures:
1. **Uninstall the current printer driver:**
– Open **Device Manager** by pressing `Win + R`, typing `devmgmt.msc`, and pressing Enter.
– Expand the **Print queues** category, right-click your printer, and choose **Uninstall device**.
– Alternatively, open **Programs and Features** from Control Panel, uninstall any printer-related software.
– You can also open the Run dialog (`Win + R`), type `printui.exe /s`, go to the **Drivers** tab, and remove printer drivers completely if present [2][3].
2. **Restart your computer** to complete the clean uninstall.
3. **Reinstall the printer:**
– Go to **Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners**.
– Click **Add a printer or scanner**. If Windows detects your printer, it will install it automatically.
– If automatic detection fails, choose **Add manually**.
– Select **Add a local printer or network printer with manual settings**.
– Choose the appropriate port (e.g., USB001 if connected via USB).
– Select the printer driver from the list or click **Have Disk** to install from a downloaded driver.
– You can also download the latest driver from your printer manufacturer’s website and install it before or during this process [1][2][4].
4. (Optional) After installation, print a test page to verify the setup.
This process ensures a complete removal of old printer files and a fresh installation of the correct driver, resolving many printing issues. For brand-specific steps, such as HP printers, using the manufacturer’s uninstaller or software (like HP Smart) can simplify driver installation [3].
If your printer is network or wirelessly connected, you may need to select the TCP/IP port or enter the printer’s IP address manually during installation [1][4].