HP all-in-one printers are known for their reliability, but like any technology, they sometimes run into problems—especially when it comes to scanning. If your HP printer won’t scan, it can be frustrating, especially when everything else (like printing) seems to work fine.

Whether you’re using Windows or macOS, and whether the issue is software, connection, or driver-related, this step-by-step guide will help you troubleshoot and resolve the problem.

 

 

Common Reasons Why Your HP Printer Won’t Scan

Before diving into the fixes, it helps to understand the common causes of scanning issues:

  • Outdated or corrupt scanner drivers

  • HP software conflicts

  • Connectivity issues (USB or Wi-Fi)

  • Printer not set as default or recognized by the system

  • Scan to computer feature disabled

  • Problems with Windows Image Acquisition (WIA) service

  • Firewall or antivirus interference

Let’s walk through the methods to get your HP scanner working again.

Method 1: Restart Everything (Printer, PC, and Router)

Sometimes the simplest solution is the most effective. Restart your:

  • HP printer

  • Computer

  • Wi-Fi router (if using a wireless connection)

After restarting, try scanning again using the HP Smart app or HP Scan software.

Method 2: Use the HP Print and Scan Doctor (Windows Only)

HP provides a free tool called HP Print and Scan Doctor that can automatically detect and fix scanning issues.

Steps:

  1. Download it from HP’s website.

  2. Launch the tool and select your printer.

  3. Click Fix Scanning.

  4. Follow the on-screen instructions.

This tool can correct many common scanning errors like driver issues, offline status, and communication failures.

Method 3: Check Your Connection (USB or Wi-Fi)

For USB Connection:

  • Make sure the cable is securely plugged in.

  • Try using a different USB port.

  • Avoid using USB hubs—connect directly to the computer.

For Wi-Fi Connection:

  • Ensure the printer is on the same network as your PC.

  • Print a Network Configuration Page from the printer control panel to verify the IP address.

  • Try reconnecting the printer to the Wi-Fi via Wireless Setup Wizard on the printer.

Once the connection is verified, try scanning again.

Method 4: Ensure Scan to Computer Is Enabled

Some HP printers disable the "Scan to Computer" feature by default to save power or memory.

Using HP Printer Assistant (Windows):

  1. Search and open HP Printer Assistant.

  2. Click on Scan > Manage Scan to Computer.

  3. Click Enable.

For older printers, you may find the option under HP Solution Center.

 

 

Method 5: Update or Reinstall HP Scanner Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers are a frequent cause of scanning failures.

Steps:

  1. Go to Device Manager.

  2. Expand Imaging Devices or Printers.

  3. Right-click on your HP printer/scanner and click Uninstall.

  4. Visit the HP Support website and download the latest drivers for your printer model.

  5. Install the drivers and restart your computer.

Once complete, try scanning again using HP Smart or your preferred scanning tool.

Method 6: Use HP Smart App (Windows and macOS)

The HP Smart app provides a more reliable scanning experience than legacy apps like Windows Fax and Scan.

Steps:

  1. Download the app from the HP Smart site or Microsoft Store.

  2. Open the app and add your printer if it’s not already listed.

  3. Click Scan on the home screen.

  4. Select scan settings and hit Scan.

This app also allows for advanced options like document editing, saving as PDF, or scanning to email.

Method 7: Check Windows Services (WIA)

If scanning still doesn’t work, make sure the Windows Image Acquisition (WIA) service is running.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.

  2. Scroll down to Windows Image Acquisition (WIA).

  3. Ensure it is Running and the Startup type is set to Automatic.

  4. If it’s stopped, right-click and choose Start.

This service is essential for scanning in Windows.

Method 8: Temporarily Disable Firewall/Antivirus

Some security software may block scanning features, especially if you’re scanning over a network.

Try:

  • Disabling your firewall or antivirus temporarily.

  • Attempt a scan.

  • If it works, create a firewall exception for HP software or services.

Don't forget to re-enable your security software afterward.

Method 9: Use an Alternative Scanning Tool

If HP software isn't working, try using built-in scanning tools like:

On Windows:

  • Windows Scan app (available in Microsoft Store)

  • Windows Fax and Scan (Start > Windows Accessories > Windows Fax and Scan)

On Mac:

  • Image Capture (found in Applications)

These tools can sometimes succeed where HP’s software fails.

Method 10: Factory Reset the Printer (Last Resort)

If all else fails, a full reset might help resolve any deep configuration or firmware issues.

General Reset Instructions:

  1. Go to your printer’s Settings > Printer Maintenance > Restore.

  2. Choose Restore Factory Defaults.

  3. Confirm when prompted.

Note: This will erase all custom settings, including saved Wi-Fi networks.

Bonus Tips

  • Update your OS: Ensure your Windows or macOS is fully updated.

  • Firmware updates: Use HP Smart or HP Support Assistant to check for printer firmware updates.

  • Try another PC: Determine if the issue is printer-related or specific to one computer.

 

 

Conclusion

When your HP printer won’t scan, it doesn’t always mean there’s something wrong with the hardware. In many cases, software glitches, driver issues, or connection problems are the culprits. By following the steps above—from restarting your devices to reinstalling drivers and using HP’s diagnostic tools—you can often restore full scanning functionality in just a few minutes.

If none of the solutions work, contact HP Support for further assistance or to check if your printer is still under warranty.

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