Windows 11 · All-in-one printer

Printer works, but the scanner doesn't

This is a useful clue. Since printing still works, leave the printer's Wi-Fi and basic setup alone for now and focus on scanning.

Good signThe computer can still talk to the printer well enough to print.

1. See whether Windows can find the scanner

Open Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners, select the printer, and look for Scanner settings.

2. Try a scanning program you already have

That might be Windows Fax and Scan, Scan, or the printer maker's scanning app. If it sees the scanner, try one page.

3. If one scanning program works

The scanner itself is working. Check the program that fails and make sure it has the correct scanner selected.

4. If Windows cannot find the scanner

USB: check the cable. If this started recently while printing still works, see the USB scanner missing guide.

Wi-Fi/network: make sure the computer and printer are on the same network.

5. Only then look at printer software

Use Windows Update or the printer manufacturer's official support page. Avoid driver-updater ads or remote-support downloads.

If you do not have a scanning program

That does not mean the scanner is broken. Microsoft's Scan app may not already be installed, and many printer makers provide their own scanning app.

Official references

Printer Triage is an independent troubleshooting reference. You should not need to give a stranger remote control of your computer to do these checks.