<h1 data-path-to-node="0"><strong data-path-to-node="0" data-index-in-node="0">Guide: HP Driver &amp; Software Support (2026)</strong></h1>
<p data-path-to-node="1">Managing HP drivers and software has evolved into a more automated, app-centric experience in 2026. Whether you are setting up a new device or fixing a "Driver Unavailable" error, this guide outlines the official methods to keep your hardware running smoothly.</p>
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<h3 data-path-to-node="3"><strong data-path-to-node="3" data-index-in-node="0">The Official HP Software Ecosystem</strong></h3>
<p data-path-to-node="4"><strong data-path-to-node="4" data-index-in-node="0">Description:</strong> HP has consolidated its tools into the <strong data-path-to-node="4" data-index-in-node="52">HP App</strong> (formerly HP Smart). This is now the primary gateway for all driver installations and system updates.</p>
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<p data-path-to-node="5,0,0"><strong data-path-to-node="5,0,0" data-index-in-node="0">The HP App (Universal):</strong> Available on the <a href="https://apps.microsoft.com/detail/9wzdncrfhwlh" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-hveid="0" data-ved="0CAAQ_4QMahgKEwistoae0rySAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQtwI">Microsoft Store</a> and <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=https://apps.apple.com/app/hp-print-and-support" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-hveid="0" data-ved="0CAAQ_4QMahgKEwistoae0rySAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQuAI">Apple App Store</a>. It handles background driver injection, scanning, and ink monitoring.</p>
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<p data-path-to-node="5,1,0"><strong data-path-to-node="5,1,0" data-index-in-node="0">HP Easy Start:</strong> A lightweight setup utility found at <a href="https://123.hp.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-hveid="0" data-ved="0CAAQ_4QMahgKEwistoae0rySAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQuQI">123.hp.com</a>. It detects your printer model and downloads the specific "Full Feature Software" package required for your OS.</p>
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<p data-path-to-node="5,2,0"><strong data-path-to-node="5,2,0" data-index-in-node="0">HP Support Assistant:</strong> A pre-installed tool on HP PCs that automatically scans for BIOS, chipset, and peripheral driver updates.</p>
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<h3 data-path-to-node="7"><strong data-path-to-node="7" data-index-in-node="0">How to Download &amp; Install Drivers</strong></h3>
<p data-path-to-node="8"><strong data-path-to-node="8" data-index-in-node="0">Description:</strong> If you prefer manual control or the app fails to detect your printer, follow this phase-by-phase manual approach.</p>
<h4 data-path-to-node="9"><strong data-path-to-node="9" data-index-in-node="0">Phase 1: Product Identification</strong></h4>
<p data-path-to-node="10">Visit the <a href="https://support.hp.com/drivers" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-hveid="0" data-ved="0CAAQ_4QMahgKEwistoae0rySAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQugI">Official HP Drivers Page</a>. You will need:</p>
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<p data-path-to-node="11,0,0"><strong data-path-to-node="11,0,0" data-index-in-node="0">Product Name:</strong> (e.g., OfficeJet Pro 9010)</p>
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<p data-path-to-node="11,1,0"><strong data-path-to-node="11,1,0" data-index-in-node="0">Serial Number:</strong> Usually found on a sticker on the back or underside of the device.</p>
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<p data-path-to-node="11,2,0"><strong data-path-to-node="11,2,0" data-index-in-node="0">Operating System:</strong> The site usually auto-detects if you are on Windows 11, macOS, or a mobile platform.</p>
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<h4 data-path-to-node="12"><strong data-path-to-node="12" data-index-in-node="0">Phase 2: Choosing the Right Driver</strong></h4>
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<p data-path-to-node="13,0,0"><strong data-path-to-node="13,0,0" data-index-in-node="0">Full Feature Software (Recommended):</strong> Includes the driver plus essential tools for scanning and maintenance.</p>
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<p data-path-to-node="13,1,0"><strong data-path-to-node="13,1,0" data-index-in-node="0">Basic Driver:</strong> Small file size; allows basic printing but lacks advanced scanning or cleaning utilities.</p>
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<p data-path-to-node="13,2,0"><strong data-path-to-node="13,2,0" data-index-in-node="0">Universal Print Driver (UPD):</strong> Ideal for business environments with multiple HP models.</p>
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<h3 data-path-to-node="15"><strong data-path-to-node="15" data-index-in-node="0">Troubleshooting: "Driver Unavailable" Errors</strong></h3>
<p data-path-to-node="16"><strong data-path-to-node="16" data-index-in-node="0">Description:</strong> This common 2026 error usually means the Windows/Mac "Class Driver" is conflicting with the official HP software.</p>
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<p data-path-to-node="17,0,0"><strong data-path-to-node="17,0,0" data-index-in-node="0">Remove the Device:</strong> Go to <strong data-path-to-node="17,0,0" data-index-in-node="25">Settings &gt; Bluetooth &amp; Devices &gt; Printers &amp; Scanners</strong>. Select your printer and click <strong data-path-to-node="17,0,0" data-index-in-node="109">Remove</strong>.</p>
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<p data-path-to-node="17,1,0"><strong data-path-to-node="17,1,0" data-index-in-node="0">Clear the Spooler:</strong> Press <code data-path-to-node="17,1,0" data-index-in-node="25">Win + R</code>, type <code data-path-to-node="17,1,0" data-index-in-node="39">services.msc</code>, right-click <strong data-path-to-node="17,1,0" data-index-in-node="65">Print Spooler</strong>, and select <strong data-path-to-node="17,1,0" data-index-in-node="91">Restart</strong>.</p>
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<p data-path-to-node="17,2,0"><strong data-path-to-node="17,2,0" data-index-in-node="0">Reinstall via HP App:</strong> Open the HP App and click the <strong data-path-to-node="17,2,0" data-index-in-node="52">Plus (+)</strong> icon to "Add Printer." The app will force-install the latest verified driver from HP&rsquo;s servers.</p>
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<h3 data-path-to-node="19"><strong data-path-to-node="19" data-index-in-node="0">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)</strong></h3>
<p data-path-to-node="20"><strong data-path-to-node="20" data-index-in-node="0">Q: Do I need to pay for driver updates?</strong><strong data-path-to-node="20" data-index-in-node="40">A:</strong> No. HP drivers and software are always free. Be cautious of third-party sites that ask for payment or "subscription fees" to update your drivers; these are often scams.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="21"><strong data-path-to-node="21" data-index-in-node="0">Q: Why can't I find drivers for Windows 7 or 8?</strong><strong data-path-to-node="21" data-index-in-node="48">A:</strong> In 2026, HP has moved most older models to "Legacy Support." You may need to use the <strong data-path-to-node="21" data-index-in-node="136">Windows Built-in Driver (In-OS)</strong> via Windows Update if a dedicated installer is no longer available.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="22"><strong data-path-to-node="22" data-index-in-node="0">Q: What is the difference between HP Smart and the HP App?</strong><strong data-path-to-node="22" data-index-in-node="59">A:</strong> They are the same. HP rebranded "HP Smart" to the "HP App" in late 2025 to offer a more unified experience for both PC and printer users.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="23"><strong data-path-to-node="23" data-index-in-node="0">Q: Can I install drivers via USB?</strong><strong data-path-to-node="23" data-index-in-node="34">A:</strong> Yes. However, for the best experience, it is recommended to run the HP Easy Start software <em data-path-to-node="23" data-index-in-node="128">before</em> plugging in the USB cable when prompted by the installer.</p>