Locating the scanning software

[SheilaSandow]

My laptop crashed last winter but was successfully repaired through an operating system reinstall. They captured most of my data, but some applications went missing and I've had to replace them as I discover they're missing. Right now, I cannot locate the shortcut that was formerly on my desktop for being able to scan documents from my HP OfficeJet Pro 8020 series printer to my laptop. The printer works just fine, so that software is in place and should include the scanning function. But how to I put a Scan function shortcut back on my desktop? I need to scan something today!

[Meghana_10]

Hello @SheilaSandow, Welcome to the HP Support Community. 

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding the HP Officejet Pro 8020 printer. 

We appreciate the opportunity to assist you and are glad we could help work toward a resolution. We hope our support has been valuable.

To help us get started on resolving your issue, could you please try a few troubleshooting steps provided below so that I can assist you further?

Step 1: Check if HP scanning software is installed

1. Click on the Start menu (Windows icon).
2. Type HP Smart in the search bar.
3. If found, open HP Smart and try scanning from there.

If HP Smart is not available, you may need to install it:

• Download from: https://support.hp.com/drivers
• Enter: HP OfficeJet Pro 8020 series
• Install the full-feature software / HP Smart app

Step 2: Scan using HP Smart

1. Open HP Smart.
2. Select your HP OfficeJet Pro 8020 series printer.
3. Click on Scan → choose Computer.
4. Place your document and start scanning.

Step 3: Create a Desktop Shortcut for Scanning

Once HP Smart is installed:

Option A: From Start Menu

1. Search for HP Smart.
2. Right-click → Open file location.
3. Right-click the HP Smart icon → Send to → Desktop (Create shortcut).

Option B: Create Scan Shortcut (optional)

• Open HP Smart → use scan → pin the app to taskbar for faster access:
  • Right-click HP Smart on taskbar → Pin to taskbar

Step 4: Use Windows Scan (Alternative)

1. Search for Windows Scan app.
2. Open it and select your printer.
3. Perform a scan if HP software is unavailable.

Step 5: Ensure Full Driver is Installed

Sometimes basic drivers allow printing but not scanning.

1. Go to HP OfficeJet Pro 8020 All-in-One Printer series Software and Driver Downloads | HP® Support
2. Install Full Feature Software and Drivers
3. Restart your laptop after installation

Take care and have an amazing day!