Printer Drivers

A printer driver is a computer software program that directs the output from the computer to the printer and controls the printer functions in a language that the printer is able to understand. Whenever someone prints a document, the printer driver feeds the necessary data to the printer, telling it the correct commands. Although almost every operating system comes with printer drivers for common printer types, you need to install the printer driver before using the printer. Drivers are necessary when you have new hardware to hook up to your computer and while some have the original CD with the printer driver in the package, others do not, so you have to begin searching for the correct printer drivers. Finding the correct printer drivers can be difficult because there are so many brands with model numbers that change continuously, so it is often difficult to find the printer drivers even at the manufacturer’s website.

Finding Drivers

Here are some ways to look for the necessary printer drivers that often prove successful. Start at the manufacturer’s website and look for the necessary printer drivers. Put in the printer model number and driver number. A search engine database is often successful by entering in the printer brand, model and typing ‘driver’. Another way is by using a printer-driver download site but often you have to register in order to download drivers from them. The success rate for finding the printer drivers you need are very good at download sites but you need to make sure it is a reputable site and does not put a lot of spyware on your computer. Even if you do have the printer drivers that come with the original printers, occasionally you should update the drivers so they do not become too far out of date.

To find out what driver version number you have on Windows XP or Windows 95/98, go to your start button, select settings, control panel and then click on printers and faxes. You need to right-click on the default printer, which has a black circle with a checkmark in it, above the icon, and then select properties. On the general tab, click ‘print test page’ and then ‘ok’. On the printed test page is your driver version, which you need when going to the printer manufacturer's web site. To download the necessary printer drivers or updated drivers, look for drivers, downloads, support or software and enter in your printer's model number and the manufacturer.

Troubleshooting

An indication that you have a printer driver problem is when your printer functions but prints illegible numbers and letters. Before you make any driver changes, reboot your computer and turn the printer off and then on. If you still have the same problem, it is time to make the necessary changes to your printer drivers.