Printer is printing but not scanning, cannot find instructions to rectify.

Dear Lance Weeekes,

To help you troubleshoot the issue, please review the following steps:

1. Check Scanner Drivers and Software

Ensure that the latest scanner drivers and full-feature software package are installed from the printer manufacturer’s website.

Some printers require a separate scanning utility or app to function correctly.

2. Verify Device Recognition

Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners, and confirm that the scanner is listed.

If not, try removing and re-adding the device.

3. Use Windows Scan Tool

Open the Windows Scan app (available from Microsoft Store) or Windows Fax and Scan to test scanning functionality.

If the scanner is not detected, this may indicate a driver or connectivity issue.

4. Connection Type

If using USB, ensure the cable is securely connected.

If using network/Wi-Fi, confirm the device is online and reachable from your PC.

5. Firewall or Security Software

Occasionally, security software may block scanning services. Try temporarily disabling it to test.

Let me know how it goes, and if this answer helps, feel free to hit “Accept Answer” so others can benefit too 😊 T&B, Harry.

Hi,

If the printer is printing but not scanning, it usually means the scanner driver or communication channel between the printer and computer isn’t working properly.

First, check if the printer’s scan function works directly from the printer’s control panel (for example, try scanning to USB or email). If it does, that means the scanner itself is fine, and the issue is on the computer side. Next, on your computer, open Control Panel > Devices and Printers, right-click your printer, and ensure it’s set as default. Then open Windows Fax and Scan or Scan app to test scanning. If it fails, reinstall the full printer software package (not just the basic driver) from the manufacturer’s website, this ensures the correct scan drivers are restored. Also, check that the Windows Image Acquisition (WIA) service is running by pressing Win + R, typing services.msc, and setting it to Automatic. Finally, make sure the printer and PC are on the same network if it’s a wireless setup.

Kind regards,