Connecting printer to PC using windows 11

[Alembic1]

Windows 11 in S mode does not find a driver for deskjet 2150. Says not available so HP Smart  does not work. How do I get the desktop to work with the printer. I can't leave S mode, as once done apparently one cannot get back to S mode.

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Alembic1 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

If you're using Windows 11 in S mode, you may run into limitations when installing apps and drivers, as only apps from the Microsoft Store are allowed in this mode. However, you should still be able to connect and use your HP DeskJet 2150 printer by using the proper driver installation method.

Here’s how you can get your HP DeskJet 2150 to work on Windows 11 in S mode:

1. Check for HP Smart App in the Microsoft Store

Even though Windows 11 in S mode restricts you to the Microsoft Store, you should first check if the HP Smart app is available there, as it’s often required for managing HP printers.

1. Open the Microsoft Store: Click on the Start menu, and then select the Microsoft Store (or search for it).
2. Search for HP Smart: Type "HP Smart" in the search bar at the top.
3. If available, install HP Smart from the Microsoft Store.

Note: If HP Smart doesn’t work or isn’t available in S mode, you’ll have to install the printer driver manually.

2. Install the Printer Driver via Windows Update (Automatic)

Sometimes, Windows 11 will automatically download the correct driver for your printer via Windows Update, which may work even in S mode.

1. Open Settings: Go to Start > Settings (gear icon).
2. Navigate to Devices > Printers & Scanners.
3. Click Add a printer or scanner.
4. Windows will scan for available printers. If your HP DeskJet 2150 is listed, select it, and follow the prompts to install the driver.

3. Manually Install the Printer Driver (Without Leaving S Mode)

If Windows Update doesn't automatically find the driver, you can manually download and install the HP DeskJet 2150 driver from the Microsoft Store or HP’s website.

Download the Printer Driver:

• Visit the official HP Support page for DeskJet 2150.
• In the "Enter your printer model" search box, type DeskJet 2150.
• Download the driver for Windows 11 or the latest available version.

Use the Microsoft Store:

• If you can’t download directly from the web due to S mode restrictions, you can search for HP DeskJet 2150 drivers or apps in the Microsoft Store. Some basic drivers may be available directly from the store that can work with the printer.

Install the Driver:

• Once the driver file is downloaded, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. This should set up your printer without the need to leave S mode.

4. Alternative Method: Use the Windows Built-In Driver

If you're still having trouble getting the right driver, Windows 11 may also automatically recognize your HP DeskJet 2150 as a generic printer using the built-in drivers. This method can allow basic printing functionality.

1. Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners.Click Add a printer or scanner.
2. When you see your HP DeskJet 2150 in the list, select it.f it doesn’t have a specific driver, select Microsoft Print to PDF or HP DeskJet 2150 (Generic).
3. Click Add device.

I hope this helps

Take care and have a good day.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Rachel571

HP Support