HP8610 won't install -- missing driver

[jvillwock]

I've had a HP 8610 for years.  New laptop and it won't print.  I've tried everything I know of to install print drivers.  Nothing works.  I've gone in and edited the Registry, added a new key, renamed files -- all suggested by HP.  Nothing works.  Says "Driver is unavailable".  HP Smart doesn't work.  It shows connected but not installed. HELP.

[Raj_05 · Accepted solution]

Hi @jvillwock,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

I'm sorry to hear about the trouble you're experiencing with your HP 8610 printer. Let's try to troubleshoot and resolve the issue. Please follow these steps.

1. Uninstall Existing Drivers:

   • Disconnect the printer from your laptop.
   • Go to "Control Panel" -> "Devices and Printers."
   • Right-click on your HP 8610 printer and select "Remove device" or "Delete."

2. Download Latest Drivers:

   • Visit the official HP support website: HP Support.
   • Enter your printer model (HP OfficeJet Pro 8610) and download the latest drivers for your operating system.

3. Install Drivers:

   • Run the downloaded driver file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the drivers.
   • Connect the printer to your laptop when prompted.

4. Windows Update:

   • Ensure that your Windows operating system is up-to-date by running Windows Update. Sometimes, updated drivers are delivered through Windows Update.

5. HP Print and Scan Doctor:

   • Download and run the HP Print and Scan Doctor utility from the official HP website. This tool can automatically diagnose and resolve common printing problems.

6. Disable Antivirus/Firewall:

   • Temporarily disable your antivirus or firewall software and check if it allows the printer installation. Sometimes, security software can interfere with the installation process.

7. Check for Windows Troubleshooters:

   • Go to "Settings" -> "Update & Security" -> "Troubleshoot."
   • Run the Printer troubleshooter to identify and fix any issues.

8. Manual Installation:

   • If the automatic installation fails, try manually adding the printer.
     • Go to "Settings" -> "Devices" -> "Printers & scanners."
     • Click on "Add a printer or scanner" and follow the instructions to add your HP 8610 manually.

9. Reboot:

   • After performing the above steps, restart your laptop and try printing again.

Remember to re-enable your antivirus/firewall after troubleshooting.

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. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

Alden4

HP Support

[jvillwock]

Thanks for the help.  Needed to manually install using IP address.  Nothing else worked.  Very strange.  Printer works fine off my mobile phone -- now working off the laptop.  Thanks.  Jeff