Windows 11n sees a ghoat HP Printer

[MurphyLaw5]

On a Windows 11 Update I get this error: HP - Printer - 31.1.2001.9295, Install error 0x800f020b.
But why, I have a an HP OfficeJet Pro 6978, and it has no issues, I have reinstalled drivers, had printer install updated firmware, run the MS Print Utility, all with no errors.

This failed update has been out there for some time, I have been ignoring it as it seems to not have any impact.

I think it originally happened because MS Update saw an HP printer I had previously uninstalled and tried to update drivers for it....but it;s getting annoying.

[Sneha_01]

Hi @MurphyLaw5,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

The error code 0x800f020b typically indicates that Windows is trying to update or install a driver for a device that is no longer present or is misconfigured. Here’s how to resolve the issue with your HP OfficeJet Pro 6978 and stop the update error:

1. Remove Old Printer Drivers

1. Open Device Manager:
   • Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Printers:
   • Look for any entries related to the old HP printer you uninstalled. Right-click on it and select Uninstall device
   • Also, expand Print queues and uninstall any outdated or unused printers.

2. Clear Print Spooler

1. Stop the Print Spooler Service:
   • Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
   • Scroll down to Print Spooler, right-click, and select Stop.
2. Clear the Spooler Folder:
   • Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS and delete all files in this folder.
3. Restart the Print Spooler:
   • Go back to the Print Spooler service and right-click to select Start.

3. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

1. Open Settings:
   • Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
2. Run the Troubleshooter:
   • Find and run the Windows Update troubleshooter to identify and fix issues related to updates.

4. Hide the Update

If the update for the old printer continues to appear, you can hide it:

1. Download the Show or Hide Updates tool from Microsoft.
2. Run the tool and select the problematic update to hide it. This will prevent Windows from trying to install it again.

5. Reinstall Current Printer Drivers

1. Go to the HP Support Website:
   • Download the latest drivers for your OfficeJet Pro 6978.
2. Install the Drivers:
   • Follow the installation prompts and ensure that your printer is connected during the installation.

6. Check for Windows Updates

• After performing the steps above, check for any additional Windows updates that may be pending

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Rachel571

HP Support