When I press print the downloads page opens instead of the print page

[antiquitys]

I press the printer symbol and a print page opens.  Then I press print but instead of printing my downloads page opens.

[Max3Aj · Accepted solution]

@antiquitys, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

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

I understand you're experiencing an issue where clicking "Print" opens the Downloads folder instead of sending the document to your HP printer. Let's work through this together.

This behavior typically occurs when the Print button is triggering a download instead of sending the job to the printer, which can happen due to:

• Browser or app settings misconfiguration
• PDF viewer settings (especially in browsers like Chrome or Edge)
• Printer not set as default or not properly installed

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting

Check Your Default Printer

Make sure your HP printer is set as the default printer:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
3. Select your HP printer and click Set as default.

Try Printing from a Different App

If you're printing from a browser or PDF viewer:

• Try opening the file in Adobe Acrobat Reader instead of the browser.
• Press Ctrl + P, select your HP printer, and click Print.

Check Browser Print Settings

If you're printing from a browser:

• Click the printer icon.
• In the print dialog, ensure your HP printer is selected (not "Save as PDF").
• If it still opens the Downloads folder, try using Ctrl + Shift + P to open the system print dialog.

Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers

Outdated or incorrect drivers can cause printing issues:

• Visit the official HP support page: Official HP® Support
• Enter your printer model and download the latest drivers for Windows 11.
• Install and restart your PC.

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