How to Fix Printer Information Not Showing on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Sometimes, when you connect a printer to your Windows 11 computer, the printer information might not show up correctly. This can be frustrating because you won’t be able to see the printer status or print anything.

Fortunately, there are several simple ways to fix this problem. Most of these solutions don’t require advanced technical knowledge and can be done step-by-step.

In this guide, you will learn easy troubleshooting steps to get your printer information showing properly on Windows 11.

Let’s get started and fix the issue together.

Quick Note: Before You Begin

Make sure your printer is properly connected to your PC via USB or network.
Ensure the printer is turned on and has paper and ink or toner.
Check that your Windows 11 is updated to the latest version. Updates can fix many bugs.
Confirm that the printer drivers are installed. Drivers help your PC communicate with the printer.

Step 1: Restart Your Printer and Computer

Sometimes, simply restarting your devices can fix temporary glitches. Turn off your printer first, then shut down your computer. Wait about 30 seconds, and then turn them back on.

This refreshes the connection between your devices and might make the printer information appear correctly.

Step 2: Check Printer Connection and Settings

If your printer is connected via USB, make sure the cable is securely plugged into both the printer and the computer. Try using a different USB port if possible.

For wireless printers, ensure your printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your PC. You can check the printer’s network settings from its control panel or display screen.

Why this step matters:

If the connection is unstable or incorrect, Windows 11 won’t be able to communicate with your printer, causing the information not to show.

Step 3: Run the Windows Printer Troubleshooter

Windows 11 has a built-in tool that can detect and fix common printer problems automatically.

Click the Start button and select Settings.
Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
Find Printer in the list and click Run.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooter process.

This tool checks for issues like driver problems, connectivity errors, or printer spooler issues and tries to fix them automatically.

Step 4: Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers

Drivers are essential for your computer to understand how to use your printer correctly. Sometimes, outdated or corrupted drivers cause the printer information not to show.

To update your printer driver:

Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
Expand the Printers or Print queues section.
Right-click your printer and choose Update driver.
Select Search automatically for updated driver software.

If Windows does not find a new driver, you can visit the printer manufacturer’s website, download the latest driver for your model, and install it manually.

To reinstall the printer driver:

Open Device Manager again.
Right-click your printer and select Uninstall device.
Confirm the uninstallation.
Restart your computer.
Windows should automatically detect the printer and reinstall the drivers. If not, manually install the drivers downloaded from the manufacturer’s site.

Step 5: Restart the Print Spooler Service

The Print Spooler is a Windows service that manages printing tasks. If it stops working properly, printer information may not show.

Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type services.msc and press Enter.
In the Services window, scroll down to find Print Spooler.
Right-click it and select Restart.

Restarting this service can clear any stuck print jobs and refresh the printer’s communication with your PC.

Step 6: Check Printer Properties and Preferences

Sometimes, the printer information does not show because the printer is set as offline or has incorrect preferences.

Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
Select your printer from the list.
Click Open print queue.
In the window that opens, click Printer from the menu bar and ensure Use Printer Offline is unchecked.
Also, check the Printer Properties to make sure the correct port and settings are selected.

Alternative Methods and Advanced Options

If the above steps do not work, you can try these advanced options:

Remove and re-add your printer: In Printers & scanners settings, remove your printer and then add it again. This refreshes the printer setup.
Use the Printer Manufacturer’s Software: Many printers come with their own app or utility that can diagnose and fix issues.
Check for Windows Updates: Sometimes printer fixes come through Windows updates, so ensure your system is fully up to date.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is my printer information not showing in Windows 11?

This usually happens due to connection problems, outdated drivers, or issues with the print spooler service.

How do I know if my printer drivers are installed?

You can check in Device Manager under Printers or Print queues. If your printer is listed without warning icons, drivers are likely installed.

What does restarting the Print Spooler do?

It resets the service that manages print jobs, clearing stuck jobs and helping Windows communicate with your printer correctly.

Can I fix printer issues without reinstalling drivers?

Yes, sometimes restarting devices or running the troubleshooter resolves the problem without needing to update drivers.

What if my printer is wireless and not showing?

Check your Wi-Fi connection on both the printer and PC, and ensure they are on the same network. Also, try restarting your router.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above steps resolve the issue, consider these final options:

Contact the printer manufacturer’s support: They may have specific fixes or firmware updates.
Visit the official Microsoft support page: Printer problems in Windows.
Consider professional technical help: Hardware issues may require expert assistance.

Conclusion

Printer information not showing on Windows 11 can be caused by simple connection or driver issues. By following the step-by-step troubleshooting guide—from restarting devices to updating drivers and checking services—you can resolve most problems on your own.

Always start with the easiest solutions and move towards more advanced options if necessary. With patience and the right steps, your printer should display information correctly and work smoothly again.

Remember to keep your system and drivers updated, and don’t hesitate to use built-in Windows tools like the troubleshooter for quick fixes.