Computer doesn't recognize device like a printer, only like a scanner.

[David3d]

My device functioned normally before.It stopped working for now, i can't use a printer, I assume after W10 last update.  Computer doesn't recognize device like a printer, only like a scanner. I can use scanner it worl properly.  Curious, my friend also has W10( 32 or 64 but idk), but he can use the printer with his laptop.

I did uninstall and install drivers and remove from device manager , tried to install full pack drivers but it crashed on 99%. Actually, when i first used a printer, windows automatically installed proper version for use.

[A4Apollo]

Hi! @David3d, 

Try few steps recommended below and check if it helps.

Boot into windows In the search field type control panel and open control panel, select hardware and sound from the list. Then select devices and printer under printers select the correct printer and right click on it and select set as default printer.

Also, it could be a driver issue uninstall the printer software from the root level on your PC and install the full feature printer software.

In Windows, search for and open Programs and Features. 
Select your HP printer. 
Select Uninstall. 
In Windows, search for and open Devices and Printers. 
In the Devices and Printers window look for your HP Printer. If you see it listed, right-click on it and choose "Delete" or "Remove Device.” 
Open up the run command with the "Windows Key + R" key combo. 
Type printui.exe /s and click OK. 
Click on Drivers tab. 
Look for HP Printer driver. If you see it click on it and click remove at the bottom. 
Select OK. 
Select Apply and OK on the Print Server Properties windows. 
Close Devices and Printers. 

Update the full feature printer software using this link. Click Here

Lastly, download and print and scan doctor on the PC and check if it helps.

Refer this article to know more information about using HP print and scan doctor. Click Here

Let me know if this helps!

Have a beautiful day ahead! 🙂

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[Julie36]

Thanks I had a similar issue.  Windows 10 was saying 'Driver is unavailable' for my HP ENVY 5020.  I followed A4Apollo's instructions and it is now working again.

[A4Apollo]

Hi! @Julie36,

Thanks for the update and you're welcome. 

I'm happy to know the suggested steps worked out for you. If you have any other queries, please write back to us.

Take Care! 

Happy Weekend! 🙂

[David3d]

Thank you for reply. But this didn't work.
1. I can't choose printer as default because my device in "Devices" list like scanner not in Printers list/
2. I tried to uninstall, still fail on 99%.
3. I found something maybe this helps. In "Device and printers" window, i right click on my device >propterties> Hardware> Device functions, i see 4 names: HP LJ M125126Scan, HP Printer (LEDM), HP Printer (LEDM), USB Composite Device and if i click properties> events. i see device not migrated error

[A4Apollo]

Hi! @David3d,

Thanks for the update.

Edit permissions for Users, Administrators, SYSTEM and uninstall the printer software from the PC.

On the Windows taskbar, click Start.
Click My Computer.
Right-click System (C:), and then click Properties.
   NOTE:
If your drive is not System (C:), change to your drive name and letter.
Click the Security tab.
Under Group or user names, click Users.
Under Permissions for Users and the Allow column, check these boxes:
Read & Execute
List Folder Contents
Read
Click Apply.
Under Group or user names, click Administrators.
Under Permissions for Administrators and the Allow column, check the same boxes as you did for Users, unless they are already checked.
Click Apply.
Under Group or user names, click SYSTEM.
Under Permissions for SYSTEM and the Allow column, check the same boxes as you did for Administrator and Users, unless they are already checked.
Click Apply.
Click OK.
Click Yes on the Windows Security message box.
If you receive an Error Applying Security message, click Continue.
On the Windows taskbar, click Start, and then click Shut Down.
From the What do you want the computer to do? drop-down menu, click Restart, and then click OK.
Try to install the HP printer software again.

If you still have issues after trying out the steps. Try creating a new user account on the PC and install the full feature printer software.

Refer this article to know more information about managing user accounts. Click Here

Update the full feature printer software using this link. Click Here

Lastly, try installing windows built-in drivers if you still have issues.

Refer this article to know more information about installing windows built-in drivers. Click Here

Hope this helps!

Take Care! 🙂

Please click “Accept as 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!