Can't print to my OfficeJet 4650 - says printer driver is unavailable.

[DYB2]

I am having problems printing on my OfficeJet 4650 printer, which I last used about a year ago.  When I try to select this printer in Settings, it says "driver is unavailable".  When I try to download the driver from the HP website, I was directed to HP Smart.  I downloaded HP Smart, found the printer, selected it, and waited for the app to download the driver and install the printer.  I then got a message saying "there was a problem during installation" and prompting me to manually download the driver and install the printer.  I followed the instructions, and ended up with the same message:  "driver is unavailable".  My HP laptop is running Windows 11 and both it and my printer are connected to the same WiFi network.  The printer is discoverable by HP on my network.  The printer says its software is up to date.  Is there any hope here, or is this HP's latest ploy to force me to buy a new printer?

[Nal_NR]

Hi @DYB2,

Welcome to the HP Support Community

I understand you are getting an error driver is unavailable on your HP Printer. Not to worry I will help you to get a resolution to resolve the issue.

We need to perform a semi-full reset to restore the printer back to its original settings.

The reset instructions are specific to your printer and performing those steps on a different printer may brick the device. 

I've sent you a private message with reset instructions, follow the reset instructions to perform a full reset and re-initialize the printer. 

In order to access your private messages, click the private message icon on the upper right corner of your HP Community profile, next to your profile Name, or simply click on this link.

Hope this helps! Keep me posted. 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

[DYB2]

Hi - thanks for your reply.  I tried as you suggested, and reset my printer to the factory default settings, and tried to get the relevant printer drivers from the HP site.  I was prompted through a long process which directed me to HP Smart, download of new HP Smart software, establishing of a new account, etc, etc...but then I couldn't use HP Smart or the HP ePrint process to print anything.  I got messages saying my printer was not connected to the internet, which was incorrect.  In any case, I then tried removing the printer from my laptop altogether, and then re-installing it.  That worked, as the necessary printer drivers must have downloaded.   I can now print normally.  Not sure if resetting my printer to the factory default setting had anything to do with getting my printer to work again, so I am not going to accept your reply.    Thanks for your response, however.

[Nal_NR]

Hi @DYB2,

Fantastic 🙂 I am happy to know that, the issue is resolved. I truly appreciate your time and patience.

If you need further assistance, feel free to reach out to us. Have a great day😊