HP Officejet 4500 will print but won't scan!

[cloud53]

The HP Officejet 4500 series printer works fine, but the scanner won't connect and therefore can't be used. It was working fine before.

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @cloud53,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

I understand your printer is able to print, but the scanner isn’t connecting. This issue often occurs after Windows updates, as the scan driver or communication settings may get disrupted. However, the model you shared is not an OfficeJet 4500, so I’m sharing the steps for a generic HP printer to help you troubleshoot the scanning issue.

Step 1: Check Connection

• If using a USB, unplug and reconnect to a different port.
• If using network/Wi-Fi, confirm the printer is online and reachable (print a Network Configuration Page from the printer menu).

Step 2: Restart Devices

• Power off the printer and PC.
• Wait 60 seconds, then restart both.

Step 3: Update or Reinstall HP Drivers

• Go to HP’s official page for your printer: 👉 Official HP® Support
• Download the Full Feature Software and Drivers (not just basic drivers).
• Install and restart.

Step 4: Use HP App

• Download HP’s diagnostic tool: 👉 HP App – For HP Printers, Laptops, and Tech Accessories | HP® Official Site
• Run it will detect and fix scanning issues automatically.

Step 5: Check Windows Scan Settings

• Open Windows Fax and Scan or HP Scan.
• Ensure the correct printer is selected.
• If the scanner still fails, uninstall the printer completely and reinstall using the HP app or the full driver package.

Step 6: Firewall/Antivirus

• Temporarily disable the firewall or antivirus they often block scan communication.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

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Regards,

VikramTheGreat