Removing printer drivers in Windows 10 can seem a bit tricky, but it’s simpler than it appears. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring that those unwanted drivers are gone for good. Whether your printer is giving you trouble or you just need a fresh start, these instructions will help.
How to Remove Printer Drivers in Windows 10
Removing printer drivers in Windows 10 will free up space in your system and help resolve driver conflicts. Follow these steps to ensure the drivers are completely removed from your computer.
Step 1: Open the Control Panel
First, open the Control Panel by searching for it in the Start menu.
Once you have the Control Panel open, you’ll see various options. This is where you can manage many aspects of your computer, including printer drivers.
Step 2: Go to Devices and Printers
Next, click on "Devices and Printers" within the Control Panel.
In this section, you will see all the printers connected to your computer. This is where you can manage and remove them.
Step 3: Select the Printer
Right-click on the printer you want to remove and choose "Remove device."
This action will begin the process of removing the printer from your system. It might take a few seconds to complete.
Step 4: Open Print Server Properties
In the "Devices and Printers" window, click on any empty space, then select "Print server properties."
This will open a new window where you can manage all the printer drivers installed on your computer.
Step 5: Remove the Printer Driver
Select the "Drivers" tab, choose the driver for the printer you removed, and click "Remove."
A confirmation window will pop up. Make sure to choose "Remove driver and driver package" to completely delete it from your system.
After completing these steps, the printer driver will be removed from your Windows 10 system, freeing up space and potentially resolving any issues caused by old or conflicting drivers.
Tips for Removing Printer Drivers in Windows 10
- Backup First: Always create a system restore point before removing drivers. If something goes wrong, you can restore your system to its previous state.
- Update Drivers: Consider updating your printer drivers before removing them. Sometimes an update can fix issues without needing to remove and reinstall the driver.
- Check Manufacturer’s Guide: If you’re unsure which driver to remove, check your printer manufacturer’s guide or website for more information.
- Use Safe Mode: If you encounter issues removing drivers, try booting your computer in Safe Mode and then removing the drivers.
- Third-Party Tools: There are third-party tools available that can help manage and remove printer drivers more efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would I need to remove printer drivers?
You might need to remove printer drivers if they are outdated, causing conflicts, or if you are no longer using the printer.
Can I reinstall printer drivers after removing them?
Yes, you can download and reinstall printer drivers from the printer manufacturer’s website.
What if I can’t remove a driver?
If you can’t remove a driver, try using Safe Mode or a third-party driver removal tool.
Will removing the driver affect my other printers?
No, removing one printer driver should not affect other printers installed on your system.
Is it safe to remove old printer drivers?
Yes, it is generally safe and can help improve system performance by removing unnecessary files.
Summary
- Open the Control Panel.
- Go to Devices and Printers.
- Select the Printer.
- Open Print Server Properties.
- Remove the Printer Driver.
Conclusion
Removing printer drivers in Windows 10 might seem daunting at first, but with these easy steps, it’s a walk in the park. Clearing out old drivers can help keep your system running smoothly and avoid unnecessary conflicts. Remember to backup your system before making any changes, and don’t hesitate to reinstall drivers if needed.
By following this guide, you’ll master how to remove printer drivers on Windows 10, ensuring your computer stays clean and efficient. If you run into any issues, refer back to the tips and FAQs to troubleshoot. Happy computing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.