Printer driver install reports no printers found despite correct connection

The problem: Attempting to install a printer driver results in the installer reporting it cannot find any connected printer, despite the printer being powered on and connected.

Symptoms: Manufacturer's installation software or Windows' Add Printer wizard fails to detect the printer; the printer itself shows normal ready status; other devices can sometimes detect it while the affected computer cannot.

Likely cause: A required underlying Windows service (Print Spooler) isn't running, a USB port or cable issue is preventing proper enumeration, a corrupted existing driver remnant is blocking new detection, or network discovery is disabled for network-connected printers.

Category: Printers & Scanners · Difficulty: Moderate · Windows: Both

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