What Is A Printer Driver & Why Are They So Important?
The term “printer driver” refers to the software that controls your computer’s printer. It allows you to print documents, images or any other type of file from your PC. The printer drivers work in conjunction with the operating system on your computer to allow it to communicate with the printer hardware. Without these drivers, you would not be able to use your printer at all.
How Do I Choose the Right Driver for My Printer?
It’s easy. Just look at your printer and you’ll see it’s name. If it’s a Canon MF4370DN, for instance, then you’ll need a Canon MF4370DN driver. Once you found the right printer driver, you’ll need to choose the right OS driver: Mac OS, Windows 11, Linux etc.
As soon as this is done, just download the printer driver and follow the installation instructions. In 2-3 minutes your printer should start working perfectly.
How Do I Find My Printer Driver?
Drivers for printers are usually downloaded from the printer manufacturer websites (we link to them directly, as, if they change anything in their drivers’ code, you’ll still access the updated version.
What are the main printer manufacturers? Canon, Epson, Brother, HP etc.
Once you have downloaded the file, this is usually stored in a DOWNLOADS folder on your computer (or whatever directory you have chosen during download.
Double clicking the downloaded driver file will start the installation wizard for Windows 10, 11 or any other operating system of choice. As you follow the instructions, you’ll be prompted for various things like where to save the file, language options, customized installation etc.
Why learn how to update a printer driver?
To ensure that you’re running the latest software for your computer, printer, smartphone, tablet, etc., you may need to upgrade your drivers. Also, if you re-install your Operating System, have your printer miss-function or just want to be up to date, you will need to know how to install your printer drivers.