HP Laser Jet 1020 and Windows 11 USB connection

[ksm2025]

I lost the driver for my work horse printer HP Laserjet 1020 and can't get anything to print using my Windows 11 operating system.

I re-downloaded the driver from the HP website and ran the driver install program.  This allowed me to change the printer from an unspecified device to a printer.  When I try to print a test page it doesn't print anything and does not leave anything in the print queues.

Can anyone tell me how to get the printer and computer to communicate?

[Max3Aj]

@ksm2025, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

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

The HP LaserJet 1020 is a reliable workhorse, and I understand how frustrating it can be when it stops printing after a Windows upgrade. Let’s walk through the steps to get your printer working again with Windows 11.

Uninstall Existing Printer Drivers

Sometimes remnants of old drivers can cause conflicts.

• Press Windows + R, type control printers, and press Enter.
• Right-click on HP LaserJet 1020 (or any related entry) and select Remove device.
• Go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features, and uninstall any HP LaserJet software listed.

Download and Install the Correct Driver

HP does not offer a dedicated Windows 11 driver for the 1020, but the Windows Update driver or HP Universal Print Driver (UPD) works well.

• Visit the official HP support page:
  HP LaserJet 1020 Drivers & Software
• Alternatively, download the HP Universal Print Driver (PCL5):
  HP Universal Print Driver for Windows - PCL 5 Software and Driver Downloads | HP® Support

 Reconnect the Printer via USB

• Disconnect the USB cable.
• Restart your PC.
• Reconnect the USB cable directly to a USB 2.0 port (avoid USB hubs or docking stations).
• Windows should detect the printer and install the driver automatically.

If it shows up as an Unspecified Device, continue to the next step.

Manually Assign the Driver

• Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
• Right-click the Unspecified HP LaserJet 1020 > Properties > Hardware tab > Properties > Change Settings.
• Go to the Driver tab > Update Driver > Browse my computer > Let me pick from a list.
• Choose HP > HP LaserJet 1020 or HP LaserJet 1022 Class Driver (if available).
• Click Next and finish the installation.

Test the Printer

• Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
• Select your printer > Print a test page.

Additional Troubleshooting

If the issue persists, try this HP guide: Troubleshoot a USB connection to an HP printer | HP® Support

Also, ensure your Windows is fully updated:

• Go to Settings > Windows Update and install all pending updates. 
   

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Select "Yes" on the bottom left to say “Thanks” for helping! 

Max3Aj

HP Support