"Driver is unavailable" message for printer. Cannot delete or re-add

Question

Hello,

I am trying to set up a new Epson EcoTank wireless printer on my laptop (Windows 11), and it just says "Driver is unavailable underneath the name, and I cannot click on it, or right-click on it to remove the printer, nor can I add it again from the list of available printers.

Thanks!

***Moved from Windows / Windows 11 / Devices and drivers***

Answer 1

Hello,

Can you try reinstalling it from the Device Manager?

Microsoft offers generic printer drivers to use when your actual ones don’t work. The generic printer driver is the most basic version of the driver used for printer operations.

1. Expand Print queues under Device Manager, right-click your printer, and choose Update driver.
2. Select Browse my computer for drivers.

Or you can find the latest drivers for your printer on the device manufacturer’s official website

You can also find the in-built troubleshooting capability with Windows operating system as a vital tool for dealing with common problems and errors. 

I hope the above information helps.

Best regards,

Karlie

Answer 2

Unfortunately the printer doesn't show up in Device Manager. I have attached an image below that shows Device Manager and the Printers & Scanners window:

Answer 3

what if you select the "show hidden device" under View Tab? does it appear?

Reference:

6 Ways to Fix Unable to Remove Printer on Windows 11 - Guiding Tech

Note: Since the websites are not hosted by Microsoft, the links may change without notice. Microsoft does not guarantee the accuracy of this information.

Answer 4

Hello,

No, unfortunately it does not appear in the Device Manager, even if I click "show hidden devices."

Answer 5

Hi,

Then check if you can find it in the registry:

Step 1: Press the Windows key + R to launch the Run dialog. Type regedit and press Enter.

Step 2: Paste the following path in the address bar at the top and press Enter.

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Print\Printers