One of the primary worries of a printer user is the procedures for installing the essential drivers and other features of the printer. Of all the conditions and factors, the Operating system versions are the most important one. Common OS include Microsoft Windows, Macintosh, and Linux. This article will expound on the step by step procedure of installing the drivers for primary printer groups concerning your Operating system versions.
How to install printer driver on Microsoft Windows
Windows operating system has undergone significant changes in recent times, with the latest versions being Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10. If you’re looking to install printer drivers on any of these operating systems, here’s what you need to do:
1. Start by downloading the printer driver software from the manufacturer’s website.
2. Once the download is complete, locate the downloaded file and extract it to a convenient location.
3. Connect your printer to the computer and turn it on.
4. Now, open the Device Manager on your computer and locate the printer under the “Printers” section.
5. Right-click on the printer and select “Update Driver Software” from the menu.
6. Choose the option to browse your computer for driver software.
7. Navigate to the location where you extracted the downloaded printer driver files and select the appropriate file.
8. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
By following these steps, you should be able to successfully install printer drivers on your Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, or Windows 10 operating system.
- Start by Turning off the Printer
- Double-click on the downloaded driver installer file and the program will start running. Note that for the above-listed Windows versions, it pops up a command dialog box whenever you are trying to start or install or uninstall any software or program. Secondly, another request that may pop up is that of the Administrator permission that will require your confirmation before you proceed. Just click YES or ALLOW or CONTINUE to advance on the process. However, if you did not log in as an Administrator, the system will require you to log out your user and sign in again, now as an administrator before restarting the program from Step 2.
On giving the administrative rights, the installation process begins and shows the Progress. Take note of actions that will be displayed on the screen as required on the way and respond accordingly. - When the process finishes, click COMPLETE. The printer interface may be displayed afterward to confirm the device is now ready for use. It is strongly advisable to restart your computer each time you install any program or driver or software.
To employ this printing device within a network of computing systems, one may opt for the connection alternative found within the Client. Alternatively, a connection can be manually chosen via the Connect cable window upon selecting CANCEL. To proceed with usage, verification of selection is mandatory.
How to install printer driver on Macintosh OS
- find your mac operating system version
- Select About This Mac from the Apple menu.
- Find out which macOS your Mac is using.
Check the version of your Mac operating system
Are you unsure about the current version of your Mac operating system (OS)? It’s important to know which version you’re running for compatibility with certain applications and security updates.
To check the version, click on the Apple icon in the top left corner of your screen and select “About This Mac.” A window will appear, displaying information about your Mac, including the OS version.
Make sure to keep your Mac up-to-date with the latest version for optimal performance and security. You can check for updates by clicking on the Apple icon and selecting “System Preferences,” then “Software Update.”
When it comes to installing printer drivers on a Mac OS system, one notable aspect is the requirement to have knowledge of the printer’s brand and model. To begin, conduct a thorough search for the printer model name and its most recent suitable drivers on the internet. Once you’ve done that, follow the steps outlined below to finalize the installation process before utilizing the printer.
- The first step is mounting the disk by double-clicking on the downloaded image file. This step unpacks the archive and fits it on the appropriate installer
- Identify the name of the particular data to install and double-click it to start the process properly
- The installation procedure begins. Pay attention to the messages and respond accordingly. If there is a prompting to accept or agree to the terms of the Software License Agreement, scan through and accept the terms.
- Choose the destination of the installation process and click on CONTINUE
- Click INSTALL. The administrator requires you to input the Username and Password of the admin and click on INSTALL
- Complete the process of installation and close the page
- Finally, the system notifies you on successful completion of the installation process
- Restart the system before the use of the printer.
How to install printer driver on Linux
To commence the installation of the printer driver on the LINUX operating system, it is imperative to initially ascertain the manufacturer and model of the printer. Next, download the compatible software specifically designed for your particular device. Subsequently, adhere to the ensuing guidelines to finalize the installation procedure:
- When you have downloaded the particularly needed software, connect the printer
- Make sure that the printer links correctly to your PC or the required network of computers
- Go to “Systems” and proceed to “Printers.” The system proceeds to the printer screen
- Click on “Add” button with a plus sign before it to add a new printing device
- A screen pops up where you can insert the device URL that you have identified or local a network printer or software on the downloaded folder
- Fill the information and proceed
- Complete the installation progression and restart your computer
Enjoy your printer