How to Download HP OfficeJet Printer Driver
Last updated
Last updated
HP OfficeJet printers are well-known for their high-quality printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities, making them a popular choice for both home and office use. However, in order to use all the features of your HP OfficeJet printer, you need to download and install the correct printer driver. A printer driver acts as a bridge between your computer and the printer, allowing them to communicate and function seamlessly.
This article will guide you step by step on how to download and install the correct HP OfficeJet printer driver for your computer, ensuring that your printer is ready to deliver high-quality results.
Before you begin downloading the driver, you need to confirm the exact model of your HP OfficeJet printer. HP OfficeJet printers come in a range of models, including the OfficeJet Pro, OfficeJet 250, and OfficeJet 8500 series.
To find the model number of your printer, you can look at the label or sticker located on the front, side, or bottom of the printer. Typically, the model name will be displayed on the front panel of the printer.
Alternatively, you can check the printer’s settings menu or the printer’s manual to find the exact model name.
Another important piece of information is the operating system (OS) of your computer. Drivers are specific to each operating system, so downloading the correct driver for your OS is crucial. You need to know whether your computer is running Windows, macOS, or Linux and what version of the operating system you are using (e.g., Windows 10, macOS Big Sur, etc.).
Here’s how you can find out which operating system you’re using:
Windows:
Open the Start Menu and type Settings.
Click System > About.
Under Device specifications, you’ll see the version of Windows you're using (e.g., Windows 10, Windows 11).
It will also show whether you're using a 32-bit or 64-bit version of Windows.
macOS:
Click the Apple icon in the top left corner of the screen.
Select About This Mac.
The Overview tab will display your macOS version (e.g., macOS Monterey, macOS Big Sur).
Linux:
For Linux, you can typically check the OS version by opening a terminal and typing the command lsb_release -a
. This will display your OS version and distribution.
Knowing your OS will help you download the appropriate driver for your system.
Once you’ve confirmed the model of your printer and the operating system you’re using, it’s time to visit the official HP Support website. HP regularly updates its printer drivers to improve functionality, fix bugs, and introduce new features. To ensure you’re getting the most up-to-date version of the printer driver, always use the official HP website.
Here’s how to navigate to the HP support page:
Open your internet browser and search for “HP Support.”
You should be directed to the official HP support website (support.hp.com). Alternatively, you can enter this web address into your browser's address bar.
Once on the HP Support homepage, find the Support & Drivers section.
You will see a search bar where you can enter the model name of your printer. Type the full model name of your HP OfficeJet printer (e.g., “HP OfficeJet Pro 9015”) and press Enter.
You will be directed to the product page for your specific printer model.
After you’ve located the product page for your HP OfficeJet printer, the next step is to choose your operating system. HP provides drivers tailored to specific OS versions, so selecting the correct one is vital for proper installation.
To select your operating system:
On the printer’s support page, look for a drop-down menu that allows you to select your operating system. The system will often detect your OS automatically, but if it doesn’t, you can manually choose it from the list.
Choose the correct version of your operating system. For example, if you’re using Windows 10, select Windows 10 from the drop-down list. Similarly, select macOS if you are using a Mac.
If you are unsure whether your Windows version is 32-bit or 64-bit, refer back to the System settings on your computer to confirm this.
Once your operating system is selected, you will be presented with a list of available drivers and software for your printer. There are typically two main types of drivers available for download:
Full Feature Software and Driver: This is the recommended option for most users. The Full Feature Software package contains the printer driver, as well as additional utilities such as the HP Printer Assistant. This software allows you to access advanced printer settings, scan documents, check ink levels, and perform maintenance tasks. It’s perfect for users who want to make the most out of their printer.
Basic Driver: If you only need basic printing functionality, the Basic Driver is a smaller download. It does not include the additional software, but it still allows your computer to print documents to the printer.
Choose the Full Feature Software and Driver if you want access to all features. If you're limited on storage space or only need the printer to print, choose the Basic Driver.
After selecting the appropriate driver, it’s time to download it. Depending on your internet speed, the download should take a few minutes.
Click the Download button next to the chosen driver.
The driver file will be downloaded to your computer, typically in the Downloads folder or the location you have specified for browser downloads.
Wait for the download to complete before proceeding.
Once the driver has finished downloading, you need to install it. The installation process may vary slightly between Windows and macOS, but the general steps are similar.
For Windows:
Open the Downloads folder or the location where you saved the downloaded driver file.
Double-click the downloaded file to begin the installation. The file will likely have an .exe extension.
Follow the on-screen instructions to install the driver. You’ll be prompted to agree to the License Agreement.
During the installation, you may be asked to choose between a USB or Wireless connection. If you're using a USB connection, plug the printer into the computer using a USB cable. If you’re using a wireless connection, the software will prompt you to connect the printer to your Wi-Fi network.
Once the installation is complete, restart your computer if prompted.
Your printer should now be fully functional with your computer.
For macOS:
Open the Downloads folder and double-click the downloaded driver file (this file will have a .dmg extension).
A window will appear, prompting you to run the installer.
Follow the on-screen instructions, and agree to the License Agreement.
Like with Windows, you will be asked to select a USB or Wireless connection. Choose the appropriate option and follow the prompts.
After the installation is finished, restart your Mac if necessary.
Your HP OfficeJet printer should now be installed and ready to use.
If you haven’t already connected the printer to your computer during the installation process, you can do so now.
For USB connections, simply plug the USB cable into both the printer and the computer.
For Wireless connections, ensure your printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your computer. On the printer’s control panel, you can usually navigate to Wireless Settings and connect to your network.
After installation, it’s a good idea to print a test page to ensure the printer is set up correctly. Here's how:
For Windows:
Open Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners.
Select your HP OfficeJet printer.
Click Manage, then click Print a Test Page.
For macOS:
Open System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.
Select your HP OfficeJet printer.
Click on Options & Supplies, then select Print Test Page.
If the test page prints correctly, then your printer is set up and ready for use.
If you encounter any issues during the installation, such as the printer not being recognized or printing errors, try the following troubleshooting tips:
Check Connections: Ensure the printer is properly connected to the computer or network. If using USB, try a different port. If using wireless, verify that both devices are connected to the same network.
Restart Devices: Restart both your computer and printer to reset the connection.
Reinstall the Driver: If you’re still encountering issues, uninstall the driver and reinstall it. You can do this through the Control Panel in Windows or the Printers & Scanners settings in macOS.
Downloading and installing the correct driver for your HP OfficeJet printer is a straightforward process, but it is essential to ensure that you are selecting the right driver for your operating system and model. By following the steps outlined above, you can have your printer up and running in no time, ready to handle your printing, scanning, and copying tasks with ease.