Removing a printer from Windows 10 might sound like a techy task, but it’s really straightforward. To remove a printer, you’ll need to get into your settings, find the printer you want to delete, and then, with a few clicks, it’ll be gone. Let’s break it down step-by-step so you can do it effortlessly.
How to Remove Printers from Windows 10
In this section, we’ll walk you through the exact steps needed to remove a printer from Windows 10. By following these steps, you can clean up your list of devices and get rid of any printers you no longer use.
Step 1: Open the Settings Menu
To start, click on the Windows icon in the bottom-left corner of your screen and select "Settings."
The Settings menu is where you’ll find most of your system controls. Think of it as the control center for your computer.
Step 2: Go to Devices
Next, within the Settings menu, click on “Devices” to proceed.
In the Devices section, you manage all your connected hardware, which includes printers, Bluetooth devices, and more.
Step 3: Select Printers & Scanners
In the Devices menu, select “Printers & scanners” from the list on the left-hand side.
This section will show you all the printers currently installed on your computer. It’s where you’ll do the actual removal.
Step 4: Choose the Printer to Remove
Click on the printer you wish to remove, and then click “Remove device.”
Once you select a printer, Windows will highlight it. The “Remove device” button will appear, making it easy for you to delete it.
Step 5: Confirm the Removal
A confirmation box will pop up asking if you’re sure you want to remove the printer. Click “Yes” to confirm.
Windows will ask for a final confirmation to make sure you didn’t click the remove button by accident. Click "Yes" and you’re done!
After completing these steps, the printer will be removed from your list of devices. If you ever need to add it back, you can go through the printer installation process again.
Tips for Removing Printers from Windows 10
- Check for Dependencies: Before you remove a printer, make sure no ongoing print jobs are dependent on it.
- Restart If Necessary: Sometimes, the printer might not get removed immediately. A quick restart can fix that.
- Update Drivers: If you’re having trouble removing a printer, updating your drivers might solve the issue.
- Remove Software: Uninstall any related software to free up additional space and avoid unnecessary clutter.
- Backup Settings: If you plan to reinstall the printer, back up its settings to make the reinstallation smoother.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I remove my printer?
Sometimes, a printer can’t be removed because of pending print jobs or software glitches. Restart your computer and try again.
Do I need to uninstall the driver as well?
Not necessarily. Removing the printer will usually suffice, but uninstalling the driver can free up additional resources.
Can I remove a network printer using these steps?
Yes, these steps work for both local and network printers in Windows 10.
What if the printer reappears after I remove it?
This can happen if your system refreshes devices automatically. Disable the printer from reappearing in the settings.
Can I remove a printer from the command prompt?
Yes, you can use the command prompt for advanced management, but the settings method is more user-friendly.
Summary
- Step 1: Open the Settings Menu.
- Step 2: Go to Devices.
- Step 3: Select Printers & Scanners.
- Step 4: Choose the Printer to Remove.
- Step 5: Confirm the Removal.
Conclusion
Removing a printer from Windows 10 is a simple process that anyone can do. Whether you’re cleaning up your device list or troubleshooting, knowing how to remove printers efficiently is a handy skill. Just follow the steps: go to Settings, navigate to Devices, find your printer, and remove it. Easy-peasy!
For further reading or if you encounter any issues, Microsoft’s support page offers a wealth of information. You might also consider keeping your system updated to avoid any glitches. If you found this guide helpful, feel free to share it with others who might be struggling with their devices.
Ready to declutter your device list? Dive into your settings now and remove those obsolete printers. 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.