# 1-866-203-7571 How to Update HP Printer Driver? Updating your HP printer driver is essential for keeping your device running smoothly, preventing printing errors, and ensuring compatibility with your operating system. Whether you are using a wired printer, a wireless printer, or an all-in-one device, updating the driver can solve many issues, from slow printing to connection failures. In this detailed 3000-word guide, we’ll walk you through **everything you need to know** about updating your HP printer driver — step by step. ## **1. Why Updating HP Printer Drivers Is Important** Before diving into the “how-to,” it’s important to understand **why** you should update your printer drivers regularly. ### **1.1 Improved Performance** Driver updates often include performance improvements. You might see faster printing, smoother scanning, and more reliable wireless connectivity after an update. ### **1.2 Bug Fixes** Older drivers may have bugs that cause printing errors, paper jams, or misaligned text. HP often fixes these issues in newer driver versions. ### **1.3 Compatibility with New Operating Systems** If you’ve recently upgraded to Windows 11, macOS Sequoia, or another OS version, you might need a driver update to ensure the printer works correctly. ### **1.4 Access to New Features** HP occasionally introduces new features, such as improved photo printing or enhanced scanning tools, which require the latest drivers. ### **1.5 Security Updates** Printers can be vulnerable to security threats. Updated drivers may include patches that protect against cyberattacks. ## **2. How to Check Your Current HP Printer Driver Version** Before updating, you should check which driver version is installed. ### **On Windows:** 1. Press **Windows + R** keys to open the Run dialog box. 2. Type **devmgmt.msc** and press Enter. 3. Expand **Printers** or **Print queues**. 4. Right-click your HP printer → **Properties**. 5. Go to the **Driver** tab to see the version number. ### **On Mac:** 1. Click the **Apple Menu** → **System Settings** (or **System Preferences** on older macOS). 2. Select **Printers & Scanners**. 3. Choose your HP printer → **Options & Supplies** → **Driver**. ## **3. Methods to Update HP Printer Drivers** There are several methods to update HP printer drivers. We’ll cover all major options. ### **3.1 Method 1: Update Automatically via Windows Update** Windows can automatically download and install the latest HP printer drivers. **Steps:** 1. Click **Start** → **Settings**. 2. Go to **Update & Security** → **Windows Update**. 3. Click **Check for updates**. 4. If a printer driver update is available, Windows will install it automatically. 5. Restart your computer. **Pros:** Easy and fast. **Cons:** May not always have the latest HP-specific features. ### **3.2 Method 2: Update via HP Support Website** The most reliable way to get the latest drivers is from the official HP website. **Steps:** 1. Open your browser and go to **[support.hp.com](https://support.hp.com)**. 2. Enter your printer model in the search box (e.g., “HP OfficeJet Pro 9025”). 3. Select your operating system. 4. Download the latest driver package. 5. Run the installer and follow the on-screen prompts. 6. Restart your PC or Mac after installation. **Tip:** Make sure you download the “Full Feature Software and Driver” package for complete functionality. ### **3.3 Method 3: Use HP Smart App** HP Smart is HP’s official app for setting up, updating, and troubleshooting printers. **Steps (Windows/Mac):** 1. Download **HP Smart** from the Microsoft Store or Mac App Store. 2. Install and launch the app. 3. Add your HP printer if it’s not already connected. 4. Look for **Printer Settings** → **Advanced Settings** → **Firmware & Driver Update**. 5. Follow the update instructions. ### **3.4 Method 4: Update Drivers via Device Manager (Windows)** You can manually update through Windows Device Manager. **Steps:** 1. Press **Windows + X** → **Device Manager**. 2. Expand **Printers** or **Print queues**. 3. Right-click your HP printer → **Update driver**. 4. Select **Search automatically for updated driver software**. 5. Let Windows search and install the update. ### **3.5 Method 5: macOS Update for HP Drivers** For Mac users, driver updates come through macOS updates. **Steps:** 1. Click **Apple Menu** → **System Settings** → **General** → **Software Update**. 2. If an HP driver update is available, install it. 3. Restart your Mac. ## **4. Troubleshooting HP Printer Driver Update Issues** Sometimes, updating your printer driver doesn’t go smoothly. Here are solutions. ### **4.1 Printer Not Detected** * Ensure the printer is powered on and connected via USB or Wi-Fi. * Try using a different USB port or re-connect to the Wi-Fi network. * Restart the printer and computer. ### **4.2 Update Fails to Install** * Disable antivirus temporarily, as it may block driver installations. * Download the driver directly from HP’s official website. * Run the installer as an administrator. ### **4.3 Wrong Driver Installed** * Go to **Device Manager**, right-click your HP printer, and select **Uninstall device**. * Restart your computer and reinstall the correct driver from HP. ## **5. Tips for Maintaining Printer Drivers** * **Check for updates monthly** using HP Smart or HP Support Assistant. * Enable **automatic updates** in Windows or macOS. * Keep firmware updated for improved compatibility. ## **6. When to Call HP Printer Support** If you have tried all the above steps and still face driver issues, contact HP support. **USA HP Printer Driver Support:** 📞 **Call 1-866-203-7571** Support can help with: * Driver installation errors * Printer not recognized after update * Compatibility issues with Windows 11 or macOS Sequoia * Firmware updates ## **7. FAQs on Updating HP Printer Drivers** **Q1: Do I need to uninstall the old driver before installing the new one?** Not always. Most HP drivers overwrite old versions, but if you face issues, uninstall first. **Q2: Can I update HP printer drivers without internet?** Yes, but you’ll need to download the driver package from another computer and transfer it via USB. **Q3: How long does it take to update?** Usually 5–15 minutes, depending on download speed. **Q4: Will updating drivers delete my print settings?** No, but it’s wise to back up custom settings just in case. ## **8. Conclusion** Updating your HP printer driver is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to keep your printer working at its best. Whether you choose Windows Update, HP’s website, the HP Smart app, or macOS updates, regular driver maintenance will save you time and prevent headaches. If you encounter issues during the update process, remember that **HP Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571 (USA)** is available to guide you through every step.