Outdated Drivers

[SDBrit]

I have a new Windows 11 laptop and have been trying to link to my printer and have been told my drivers are unavailable and it can't be done. Is there any way of getting these drivers onto my laptop? I've tried through HP several different ways and keep getting told I can't do it. I don't want the expense of a new printer as this one is only a couple of years old. It's an HP Desk Jet 2700e series. Any help would be much appreciated.

[Hawks_Eye · Accepted solution]

Hi @SDBrit 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

You're absolutely right to want to keep using your HP DeskJet 2700e—it’s a solid printer and definitely shouldn’t be sidelined just because of a driver snag. 

Let’s get you back up and printing. Here’s a breakdown of what you can try:

Step 1: Use the HP Smart App (Recommended by HP)

• HP now encourages users to set up and manage printers via the HP Smart app, which handles driver installation automatically.
• Download it from the Microsoft Store.
• Once installed:
  • Open the app and sign in or create an HP account.
  • Add your printer and follow the setup prompts.
  • This often resolves the “driver unavailable” issue.

 

Step 2: Switch Out of Windows 11 S Mode (If Applicable)

• If your laptop is in S Mode, it restricts installations to Microsoft Store apps only.
• To exit S Mode:
  • Go to Settings > System > Activation.
  • Under “Switch to Windows 11 Home,” click Go to the Store.
  • Select Get to switch out of S Mode (this is permanent).
• Once out of S Mode, you can install full drivers from HP’s site.

 

Step 3: Download Drivers Manually

• Visit the HP DeskJet 2700e Driver Page.
• Select your operating system (Windows 11 64-bit).
• Download HP Easy Start or the full driver package.
• Run the installer and follow the prompts.

 

Step 4:  Use HP’s Diagnose & Fix Tool

• In the HP Smart app, click Printer Settings > Diagnose & Fix.
• Let it run a scan—it will automatically fix common connection issues.
  You can also access this tool on HP’s support page if needed.

 

Step 5: Clean Up Old Drivers

• Open Device Manager (Windows + X > Device Manager).
• Expand Printers, right-click your HP printer, and choose Uninstall device.
• Restart your laptop and reinstall using HP Smart or the full driver package.

You’ve already done the hard part by not giving up—let’s make sure your printer doesn’t either.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye

[SDBrit]

Thanks for that advice. I didn't realize my VPN would impact this but switching it off definitely helped. It still took a while but I followed your advice and it's finally working. Again thanks.

[Hawks_Eye]

You're most welcome, @SDBrit ! 

I'm glad switching off the VPN did the trick—it’s one of those sneaky settings that loves to throw a wrench into otherwise smooth updates. 

Your persistence paid off beautifully, and it’s awesome to hear everything’s finally humming along.

A huge thank you for marking this post as the 'Accepted Solution'! We're thrilled that we could help resolve your issue. 

If you have any more questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to ask. We're here to help! 

Thanks again for your confirmation, and we wish you an amazing day ahead! 😊

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye