hp smart tank 851 printer driver

[isalem-dxb]

my hp smart tank 851 has exclamation mark in Device Manager. it is listed in safely remove hardware and eject media and i can use the scanner. i have windows 11 v26H2. my PC is hp z6 g4 workstation with bios updated to HP P60 v03.00, 15-Apr-2026.

[isalem-dxb]

need help installing the printer as it has exclamation mark under the Device Manager. although, it is detected on safely remove hardware and eject media and i can use the scanner.

[Meghana_10]

Hello @isalem-dxb, Welcome to the HP Support Community.

Since the printer is detected and scanning works, but you see a yellow exclamation mark in Device Manager, you likely have a driver/installation issue over USB.

Follow these steps:

1. Remove and Reinstall the Printer Using HP Easy Start (USB)

1. Connect your PC to the internet.
2. In Windows, search for and open Printers & scanners.
3. Select your HP Smart Tank 581 and click Remove.
4. Go to the HP Software and Driver Downloads page: HP Smart Tank 581 All-in-One Printer Software and Driver Downloads | HP® Support
   https://support.hp.com/drivers
5. Click Printer, then search for your printer model (Smart Tank 581).
6. On the Software and Drivers page, under
   Installation Software and Driver – Includes print, scan, latest features, and solutions (1), download HP Easy Start Printer Setup Software (Internet connection required for driver installation).

1. Open the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the printer using a USB connection.
2. After installation, confirm the printer appears correctly in Printers & scanners.
3. Try printing a test page and check Device Manager to confirm the exclamation mark is gone.

Have a great day!