Cannot install a new printer error "installation failed"

Question

Original Title: Can't use printer.

Once I upgraded to 8.1, my HP printer decided it would be offline all the time.  Never did get it back.  So I bought a new Epson.  It won't install.  Microsoft says it is compatible.  But I keep getting messaes such as "installation failed" with no explanation or link to go to.  I will get an Apple next time, but my Toshiba Satellite is fairly new and I hate to replace it right now.

Answer 1

Hello Patricia,

Thank you for replying.

I appreciate your efforts to download the drivers, to assist you further, I would request you to answer the questions asked below.

1. What is the make and model of the computer?
2. What is the model number of the Epson Printer?
3. Did you try to download the latest set of drivers from Epson website?
4. Are you able to install other drivers/programs on the computer?

Disabling all startup items from Task Manager is a part of clean boot troubleshooting which helps us to narrow down the exact cause of the issue.

Note:

After you have finished troubleshooting, follow these steps from section “How to reset the computer to start as usual after clean boot troubleshooting” to reset the computer to start as usual.

The links provided by Andre Da Costa will help you in installing the inbox drivers for the printer. To download the drivers from the manufacturer website, I will require the exact model number of the printer.

Please reply with more information, so that we can assist you further.

Answer 2

Sorry, it took me a couple of days to get back to you.  I have received numerous error messages,  but the one that shows up when trying to install the printer is "Installation failed."  No links or other info

I have downloaded the latest Epson driver.  Microsoft says Epson is compatible and gives a link to updated driver.  Didn't work.    Have installed with disk and without disk.   Did try to install using the two links you suggested.

Do you mean disable all items on startup by using Task Manager?

Answer 3

What is the error message you get when you attempt to install the Epson printer?

Are you installing from a disc that came with the printer or did you download updated drivers from Epsons website for your printer model?

In regards to the older HP printer, did you try deleting the printer from Devices and Printers (Control Panel) and re-add it to see if it resolves the problem?

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/tips-fixing-common-driver-problems

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/install-printer

You should also check for updated drivers for the HP.

Another tip. When installing the printer driver, make sure you respond to any on screen prompts that might hidden behind the installation wizard. I was installing an HP printer the other day and I was wondering why the wizard progress bar seem stuck at one point. It turned out there was a hidden window requiring an action before it could proceed.

Also, disable startup items before attempting to install, including Antivirus:

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929135