**HP Print and Scan Doctor** is a free, lightweight troubleshooting tool developed by Hewlett-Packard that helps diagnose and fix common printing and scanning problems with HP printers and scanners on Windows computers[1][2][3]. It can address issues such as:
– Printer offline or not printing
– Print jobs stuck in the queue
– Scanner not found or unable to communicate
– Scan to computer failures
– Connectivity problems (USB or wireless)
The tool is designed to be intuitive and guides users step-by-step to resolve issues. It detects connected HP devices, runs diagnostic tests, and presents results with icons indicating the status (checkmark = pass, wrench = problem fixed, exclamation mark = test failed/skipped, X = unresolved problem)[1].
**Key features:**
– Works only on Windows (no Mac version)[2][3]
– Automatically scans for HP printers/scanners on the local network or USB
– Provides detailed, easy-to-follow instructions to fix printing/scanning issues
– Can troubleshoot connection errors and reset print/spooler services if needed
– Updated regularly to support current Windows versions[2]
**How to use it:**
1. Download and install from HP’s official website or trusted sources[1][2].
2. Open the program and click “Start” to choose your printer. If your printer is not listed, turn it on and click Retry.
3. Select “Fix Printing” or “Fix Scanning” depending on your problem.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions and prompts to resolve detected issues[1].
Some users experience installation or multiple launch issues which may require manually ending processes via Task Manager or reinstalling the software[4][5].
In summary, HP Print and Scan Doctor is a practical first step tool to troubleshoot and often resolve everyday HP printer and scanner problems on Windows PCs[1][2][3].