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# System prepended metadata

title: How to Use HP LaserJet 1012 Printer on Windows 11

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# How to Use HP LaserJet 1012 Printer on Windows 11 (Complete Setup Guide – 2026)
## Printer helpline Number  1-888-765-0492
If you’re trying to connect your HP LaserJet 1012 to a Windows 11 PC, you may have noticed there’s no official driver available. Don’t worry — you can still make it work perfectly using a built-in Windows driver.

In this detailed guide, I’ll show you step-by-step instructions to install and use your printer on Windows 11 — even though it’s a discontinued model.
## About HP LaserJet 1012
The HP LaserJet 1012 is a compact monochrome laser printer released in the early 2000s. It connects via USB and is known for:

* Fast black-and-white printing
* Compact size
* Reliable performance
* Low maintenance

Since HP no longer provides Windows 11 drivers, we’ll use a compatible built-in driver method.

## Can HP LaserJet 1012 Work on Windows 11?
Yes ✔️

Windows 11 includes universal and legacy HP drivers that allow older printers like the LaserJet 1012 to function properly.

The most commonly working driver is:

HP LaserJet 3055 PCL5

Let’s install it step by step.

## Method 1: Install Using Built-in Windows Driver (Recommended)
Step 1: Connect the Printer

* Plug the USB cable into your computer.
* Turn on the printer.
* Wait 1–2 minutes.

Sometimes Windows auto-detects it. If it doesn’t, follow the manual setup below.

## Step 2: Open Printer Settings
1. Press Windows + I
1. Click Bluetooth & devices
1. Select Printers & scanners
1. Click Add device

If your printer is not listed, click:

“The printer that I want isn’t listed”
## Step 3: Choose Manual Installation

Select:

Add a local printer or network printer with manual settings

Click Next
## Step 4: Select the Correct Port

Choose:

Use an existing port

From the dropdown select:

USB001 (Virtual printer port for USB)

Click Next
## Step 5: Install Compatible Driver

Manufacturer: Select HP

Scroll in the printer list and choose:

HP LaserJet 3055 PCL5

If you don’t see it:

Click Windows Update

Wait 2–5 minutes for the list to refresh

Then select HP LaserJet 3055 PCL5

Click Next
## Step 6: Complete Installation

Keep the printer name as is (or rename it).

Click Next

Choose Do not share this printer

Click Finish

Your HP LaserJet 1012 should now be ready to use.
## 🧪 Test the Printer

After installation:

Go to Printers & scanners

Click on your printer

Select Print a test page

If the page prints successfully — setup is complete 🎉
## 🔁 Method 2: Use HP Universal Print Driver (Alternative Option)

If the above method doesn’t work, you can try the HP Universal Print Driver (UPD).

The HP Universal Print Driver supports many older LaserJet models.

Steps:

Download HP Universal Print Driver (PCL5 version) from HP’s official website.

Install it.

During setup, choose:

Manual installation

Select USB port.

Complete installation.

Note: Sometimes Windows blocks very old driver compatibility. If that happens, the built-in 3055 driver method works better.
## Common Problems & Fixes
Printer Not Detected

✔ Try another USB port
✔ Restart computer
✔ Use a different USB cable
✔ Avoid USB hubs
## Print Job Stuck in Queue

Press Windows + R

Type:

services.msc


Find Print Spooler

Right-click → Restart

Then try printing again.

## Printer Prints Blank Pages

Remove and reinstall driver

Check toner cartridge

Make sure correct printer is selected
## Why HP LaserJet 1012 Still Works in 2026

Even though it's discontinued, this printer:

Uses simple USB communication

Works with PCL5 drivers

Doesn’t require advanced firmware

That’s why Windows 11 can still support it using compatible drivers.
## Important Tips for Best Performance

Avoid Windows optional driver updates after installation

Set the printer as Default

Use standard A4 / Letter size paper

Keep toner clean and properly installed
## Final Verdict

Yes, you can absolutely use your HP LaserJet 1012 on Windows 11 — even without official drivers.

The easiest working solution is:

Install manually using HP LaserJet 3055 PCL5 driver from Windows built-in list.

Most users report 100% success with this method.