M227fdw MFP - 2019 Driver (likely) Blocks ISO to W11 24H2

[CraigS726]

M227fdw MFP -- W10 Pro 22H2 -- Clk the W11 24H2 ISO instantly produced BlueScreen - KMODE Exception - that likely is (Control panel data) a 2019 315 MB Driver Pkg (Print-Copy-Scan-Fax) from Day 1 install CD.  Dec '24 Firmware updated BUT the HP Sppt page shows a Sept '25 Universal PCL6 Driver ONLY FOR Win 8.1 and EARLIER; May '22 Full Feature Pkg (184 MB - Print-Scan ONLY) is other offering.

IF I give up fax and TRY the 2022 Pkg and it fails, aren't I stuck with a Win 10 boat anchor = No Reverse back. I have Multi-Macrium Images but don't know if anything happens in a Driver Update IN the MFP that Macrium could Not Reverse. Only Driver Update I tried in 2020 had to be Reversed by HP Remote Access Sppt Tech after functions Stopped..

Suggestions are Much Appreciated!! You Must buy new MFP would be a helpful answer IF True.

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @CraigS726,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

You’ve raised an excellent and very valid concern: driver compatibility and rollback safety when moving from Windows 10 Pro 22H2 to Windows 11 24H2 with an older HP LaserJet MFP like the M227fdw.

What’s Happening

• Your printer uses a 2019 full-feature driver package (315 MB) from the original CD, which includes Print, Copy, Scan, and  Fax.
• HP’s support page now offers: 
  • Universal PCL6 driver (Sept 2025), but only for Windows 8.1 and earlier.
  • Full Feature Software (May 2022, 184 MB) for Print + Scan only (Fax support removed).
• Firmware was updated in December 2024, so the printer hardware is current.
• The Blue Screen (KMODE Exception) during Windows 11 ISO boot strongly suggests a legacy driver conflict.

Answers & Recommendations

1. Driver Updates Do NOT Alter Printer Firmware

Installing a Windows driver only changes files and registry entries on your PC. It does not modify the printer’s firmware or internal configuration.
➡ Your Macrium image can fully restore your previous state, including drivers.

2. Fax Support

The 2022 package drops fax because HP phased out fax features in newer drivers for security and compliance reasons. If fax is critical, you can:

• Keep your current Windows 10 setup for fax.
• Or use HP App for scan/print and a third-party fax service (cloud fax).

3. Safe Upgrade Path

• Before upgrading to Windows 11, uninstall the old 2019 driver package completely.
• Install the May 2022 Full Feature Software (Print + Scan).
• Test stability on Windows 10 first.
• Then upgrade to Windows 11 24H2.

HP guide: HP LaserJet Pro MFP M227fdw | HP® Support

4. If It Fails

• Restore your Macrium image → you’re back to Windows 10 with fax.
• No permanent changes occur in the printer.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!

Regards,

VikramTheGreat

[CraigS726]

Thank you so much, Vikram,  for the detailed Reply - most always skip important questions I ask and you did not. My MFP is almost 7 yrs old so I think it's time for a new one with Full Pkg Drivers for Win 11. Things like No dnloaded Tax Software supports W10 now and just logic say it's time for Win 11 that I've avoided. MANY THANKS again!

[VikramTheGreat · Accepted solution]

Hi @CraigS726,

You’re most welcome and thank you for such kind words! 🌟

It truly means a lot to hear that the details helped. You’ve done exactly the right thing by planning ahead after 7 solid years of service; your LaserJet Pro MFP M227 has certainly earned its rest! And yes, you’re spot-on: with tax and security software moving fully to Windows 11, now is the perfect time to transition to a system that’s fully supported and keeps everything smooth, secure, and compatible.

Here’s the official HP driver page you mentioned (for anyone else following along):
👉 HP LaserJet Pro MFP M227fdw Software and Driver Downloads | HP® Support

If you’d like to keep this printer running on your new Windows 11 PC for now, here’s the best setup path:

Recommended Installation Steps (Windows 11)

1. Uninstall any older HP printer software from “Apps & Features.”
2. Download and install the Full Feature Software and Driver from the link above. It includes:
   • HP Smart Install tools
   • Full scan/fax utilities
   • Updated drivers for Windows 11
3. Reboot the PC after installation.
4. Connect the printer via USB or re-add it over Wi-Fi using the HP app.

Tip

If you plan to replace it soon, I recommend the HP LaserJet MFP 3101fdw or HP Smart Tank 7602; both have native Windows 11 drivers, self-healing Wi-Fi, and full HP Smart app integration.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!

Regards,

VikramTheGreat