After driver and firmware update, Windows won't see printer unless I run troubleshooter

[LunaticWilde]

Title says it all.

I keep my drivers updated on a regular basis, and after my last update day (it was some time ago for the printer, 3 months maybe) I've been having an issue where Windows will not see the printer when I attempt to print.  It doesn't matter what application I'm in, Acrobat, Chrome, Libreoffice, etc.   When I select print it doesn't find the printer.  I'll get the save as options (usually just pdf) but no printer shows up.  

I've found that if I run the troubleshooter for the printer (Windows troubleshooter) it doesn't find anything, but when it's done the application will find it.  

I've tried reinstalling the drivers, the firmware, uninstalling and clean installing the drivers.  Google searches don't seem to bring anything up (it's kind of a weird error).  So I'd appreciate any insight into this.

[Raj_05]

Hi @LunaticWilde,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

It sounds like you've already taken several troubleshooting steps, but let's see if we can find a solution. Here are a few more suggestions.

Check Printer Connection: Ensure that the printer is properly connected to your computer via USB cable or network connection. If it's a network printer, make sure it's connected to the same network as your computer.

Restart Printer Spooler Service: Sometimes restarting the printer spooler service can resolve communication issues between your computer and the printer. You can do this by:

• Pressing Win + R to open the Run dialog.
• Type "services.msc" and press Enter.
• Locate the "Print Spooler" service, right-click it, and select "Restart".

Check Firewall and Antivirus Settings: Sometimes firewall or antivirus settings can block communication between your computer and the printer. Make sure that your firewall or antivirus software is not blocking the printer's communication.

Update Printer Drivers and Firmware: Ensure that you have the latest drivers and firmware installed for your HP LaserJet Pro M1212nf printer. You can download them from the HP website.

Check Device Manager for Issues:

• Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
• Look for any yellow exclamation marks next to the printer in the list. If you see any, there may be a driver issue. Try updating the driver from there or uninstalling and reinstalling it.

Check Printer Properties:

• Right-click on the printer icon in the Devices and Printers window and select "Printer Properties".
• In the Properties window, go to the Ports tab and ensure that the correct port is selected for your printer.

Reset Printer: If none of the above steps work, you can try resetting the printer to its default settings. 

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Alden4

HP Support