Printer works but the scanner part won't scan
When a printer can print but the scanner doesn't work, it's almost always a driver issue or the scanning software isn't installed. Check that the scanner driver is installed on your computer and that the printer has power. If the driver is missing, reinstall it from the manufacturer's website.
Many printers are multifunction — they print and scan. When printing works but scanning doesn't, the print driver and scanning driver have a problem. The scanner part can not have the right software installed, or the driver is corrupted. The fix is to reinstall the scanner driver or check that your scanning software is properly connected to the printer.
Fix-IT-Bot will walk you through each step — just tap, no typing needed.
Skip — I just want a technicianCommon mistakes to avoid
- Installing only the print driver and not realizing the scanner needs its own driver
- Assuming the scanner is broken when the USB cable is just loose
- Using an old driver from a CD instead of downloading the latest one from the website
Signs you need professional help
- Driver is installed and software is open but the scanner still doesn't respond to scan commands
- The scanner was working and suddenly stopped — troubleshooting hasn't helped
- You get an error message saying the scanner can't be found
Book a technician
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Most issues are resolved remotely in 15 minutes. Weekend appointments only — no parts, no in-home visit needed.