Surface Pro X -- How to install PlugPlay service?

I have an HP printer that I previously used with an intel desktop (no longer functional)

I tried to use it with a Surface Pro X (ARM), but the HP driver requires the PlugPlay service be started.

The Surface Pro X does not have this service
Windows Update does not have an option to install this service.
I have posted several previous inquiries on how to install the printer driver that *requires* the PlugPlay service. Every reply has assumed that the service is installed or can be installed from Windows Update.

The continuing problem is that WoA DOES NOT INCLUDE the PlugPlay service. Windows Update cannot find a PlugPlay service to install under any variation of the ladies shoes online name.

So this is one last try since MSFT support insists that all that is needed is to start the *missing* service or obtain it from Windows Update (which has no such option)

Summary:
MSFT support: Consistently says all versions of Windows 10 & 11 have the PlugPlay/PNP service and it just needs to be started or updated via Windows Update

Reality: Win11 on Surface Pro X (ARM64) does NOT have PlugPlay, PNP or other variation of the service name. Windows Update does NOT install it. Turning on Network Discovery and/or File Sharing does NOT install it.

Question unanswered for several years now: How do I install the PlugPlay service on WoA so that the universal response from the help specialists can be used.

Hint: the complete absence of the service makes it impossible to start the service, get Windows Update to install the nonexistent service, or cause other functions that apparently don't need it to cause it to appear. (file sharing, network discovery work just fine without it)

I’m having trouble with my HP printer, which I previously used with an Intel desktop that’s no longer functional. I tried setting it up on my Surface Pro X (ARM), but the HP driver requires the PlugPlay service, which doesn’t seem to be available on the Surface Pro X. Windows Update doesn’t offer an option to install this service, and all previous replies I’ve received assumed the service should be present or installable via Windows Update.

If you're using the generic Microsoft printer driver with your HP printer/scanner, it should also pick up the scanning function.

You can install the generic Microsoft printer driver by going to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners and then clicking on Add device at the top of the window. This will cause Windows to scan for printers either attached to the computer or on the network. Once your printer show up in the list at the top of the window, click on the Add device button across from the printer's name and it should install. It should automatically recognize that it is a combination device and install the scan function as well.

It all goes well, you can then download Microsoft's Windows Scan app from the Microsoft Store and then you should be all set.

I have the same problem. Started with the HP Smart app NOT launching. Came across the PlugPlay missing issue. My printer prints. But I need the HP smart app to scan.

Hi yes. I think I have an explanation. HP want to move everyone to using HP Smart a web based printer utility rather than having users download drivers onto individual machines away from their prying eyes. They can thus log how users are using their stuff and have the potential for more of an ongoing 'conversation' with you.

You will need to establish an HP account and log in when you want to use the app especially for scanning etc. I have not found it intrusive and they have not emailed me yet with sales pitches so maybe they just want the usage data.

If you can give up on the idea of individual downloading drivers onto your machine, then go to Microsoft Store and download HP Smart. It should all work fine.

Good luck

I just bought and received the new Surface 10 11th edition and plugplay service is missing. I tried every way possible to get Microsoft support to listen and do something about it but they just ignored me... hung up the phone on me. So, I returned the tablet. Did you ever find an answer?