Scan to Computer keeps disabling

[Scrltotara1]

This has been going on for years, with multiple PCs and multiple HP Printers.  After my PC has been on for a while, the scan to computer says it's disabled.  I have to reboot for it to work again.  Ok, I just started using the HP Scan app.  Recently, sometimes when I open that app and scan, it just disappears when the scan is done.  I never have the opportunity to save the file.  Again, rebooting the PC fixes the issue.  Anyone else?

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @Scrltotara1 

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

Thanks for explaining everything so clearly. It’s genuinely frustrating when a feature like “Scan to Computer” works intermittently—especially when you’ve tried multiple setups over the years. 

Let’s walk through a few steps that can help stabilize this behavior and prevent the need for constant reboots.

Step 1: Ensure the HP App Is Running in the Background

“Scan to Computer” relies on the HP App staying active:

• Open the HP App and go to Settings > Preferences > Scan to Computer.
• Make sure Enable Scan to Computer is turned on.
• Check that Start Scan to Computer when I log in to Windows is also enabled.

If this option resets after sleep or long uptime, re-enable it manually and restart the HP App.

Guide: Enable Scan to Computer – HP

 

Step 2: Prevent Windows from Suspending USB Devices

Windows may disable USB-connected printers to save power:

1. Open Device Manager.
2. Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers.
3. Right-click each USB Root Hub > Properties > Power Management.
4. Uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.

This helps maintain the connection between your PC and printer over time.

 

Step 3: Update Printer Firmware and HP App

Outdated firmware or app versions can cause scan interruptions:

• Open the HP App > Printer Settings > Printer Maintenance > Update Firmware.
• Also check for updates to the HP App via the Microsoft Store.

Download page: HP Software and Drivers

 

Step 4: Use the Embedded Web Server (EWS) for Direct Scanning

If the HP App closes unexpectedly:

• Find your printer’s IP address from the control panel or HP App.
• Enter it into a browser to open the EWS.
• Use the Scan tab to initiate scans directly from the printer’s interface.

This bypasses the app and gives you more control over saving files.

Let me know your printer model and whether it’s connected via USB or Wi-Fi—I’ll tailor the next steps to your setup.

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

[Scrltotara1]

I forgot to add it’s set up wirelessly with a static IP.  

[Hawks_Eye]

Thanks for the update. 

That setup should offer stability, but intermittent scan failures and app crashes suggest a deeper issue with background services or network persistence.

Let’s build on what you’ve already tried and add a few more steps tailored to wireless setups:

Additional Steps to Stabilize “Scan to Computer” Over Wi-Fi

1. Ensure HP App Runs at Startup

Even with “Start Scan to Computer when I log in” enabled, Windows may delay or suspend background services.

• Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager
• Go to Startup tab
• Ensure HP App is listed and Enabled
• If not listed, manually add it:
  • Press Win + R, type shell:startup
  • Paste a shortcut to the HP App here

This ensures the app launches reliably after boot and stays active.

 

2. Prevent Network Adapter from Sleeping

Windows may suspend Wi-Fi to save power, breaking the scan link.

• Open Device Manager
• Expand Network Adapters
• Right-click your Wi-Fi adapter > Properties > Power Management
• Uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power

 

3. Assign Static IP on Printer and Router

You mentioned using a static IP—make sure it’s reserved on the router too.

• Log into your router settings
• Go to DHCP Reservation or LAN Settings
• Reserve the printer’s IP based on its MAC address

This prevents IP conflicts or reassignment that can break scan-to-PC links.

 

4. Use Embedded Web Server (EWS) for Reliable Scanning

If the HP App crashes after scanning:

• Find your printer’s IP (e.g., 192.168.1.25)
• Enter it in a browser to open the Embedded Web Server
• Go to Scan > Scan to Computer
• Choose your PC and scan directly

This bypasses the app and gives you full control over file saving.

 

5. Update HP App and Printer Firmware

Even if you’ve done this before, rechecking helps:

• HP App:
  https://apps.microsoft.com/detail/9wzdncrfhwlh
• HP Drivers & Firmware:
  https://support.hp.com/in-en/drivers

Enter your printer model and install the latest firmware and utilities.

Let me know your printer model and Windows version—I’ll guide you through any model-specific settings or scan alternatives. You’ve been incredibly persistent, and I’ll help you lock in a stable setup.

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

[Scrltotara1]

I couldn't find the HP app to add it to the startup - it was not already there.  I did see I seem to have 2 of everything - on in Program Files and one in Program FIles (x64).

I did keep the HP app alive all the time (it was set to optimized) so I will see if that helps.

The other suggestions were already set up.