Removing a printer you no longer use from your PC is a straightforward process. Depending on your operating system and preference, there are several methods available.
This guide will walk you through the different ways to remove a printer on Windows 10 and 11.
Methods for Removing a Printer from a PC
Here are various methods for removing a printer from your PC:
- Settings menu: This is the easiest method for modern Windows versions.
- Stopping the print spooler service: This can be helpful if the printer removal process encounters issues.
- Removing printer software: Some manufacturers install additional software alongside the drivers. Uninstall this software as well.
- Control Panel: This method is available for older Windows versions or as an alternative approach.
- Print Server Properties: If you want to manage the printers on a network, then this option is useful.
- Device Manager: Though not the typical method, Device Manager can also be used to remove printer drivers.
- Command Prompt: Advanced users can leverage Command Prompt for removal.
- Print Management: Looking for a more advanced tool? This tool can help in managing printers and print jobs.
- PowerShell: Another alternative for advanced users, PowerShell can also remove printers.
5 Steps for Removing a Printer in Windows 10 & 11
Here are the steps that you need to follow on how to remove a printer using various methods on Windows 10 and 11:
Via Settings
You have to open the “Settings” app and navigate to “Bluetooth & devices”. Next, you have to select the option “Printers & scanners” and click on the printer you want to remove. Finally, click “Remove device” and confirm.
Via Device Manager
You have to search for “Device Manager” in the Start menu, and then expand the “Print queues” section. Right-click the printer and select “Uninstall device”. Next, to “Delete the driver software for this device”, you have to check the box, if desired, and confirm the removal.
Via Control Panel
You have to open the “Control Panel”, which you can search for in the Start menu. Go to “Hardware and Sound” or depending on the view, you can also choose “Devices and Printers”. Right-click the printer, select the “Remove device” option and finally confirm the removal.
Via Print Management
In the Start menu, search for “Print Management”, then expand “Servers” and locate your computer. You have to expand “Printers”, locate the printer you want to remove and right-click the printer. Finally, select “Delete” and confirm.
Via PowerShell (Admin Privileges Required)
Open PowerShell as administrator and type the following command, replacing “printer_name” with the actual name of your printer: Remove-Printer -Name “printer_name”. Next, press Enter to remove the printer.
Tips for Properly Removing a Printer
Here are some additional tips that you can implement for a thorough printer removal:
Uninstall Printer Software
Some manufacturers install additional software for managing your printer. In the Control Panel, locate this software in the “Programs and Features” section and uninstall it.
Check for Remaining Drivers
After removing the printer using the methods above, search for leftover drivers in Device Manager. If you find any, right-click and uninstall them.
Remove the Printer from the Registry (Advanced Users Only)
The Windows registry stores detailed information about hardware and software. You need to proceed with caution, as editing the registry can be risky. You must also back up your registry before making any changes.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Removing a Printer
Here are some solutions for common issues encountered during printer removal:
Unable to Remove the Printer from “Devices And Printers”
Try stopping the Print Spooler service first (search for “Services” in the Start menu, locate “Print Spooler,” right-click and select “Stop”).
The Printer Still Appears after the Removal
Restart your computer. If the printer persists, it might be a network printer. You’ll need to remove it from the print server.
Error Messages during Removal
You might notice various messages which may indicate a problem with the removal process. You have to restart your computer and go through the process once again. However, if the issue seems to be persistent, consult your printer’s manual or manufacturer’s support.
Reinstalling or Updating Printer Drivers
You’ll need to reinstall the drivers if you decide to use the printer again in the future. You can easily download the updated version from the manufacturer’s website.
Conclusion
Removing a printer from your PC is a simple process and you can find several methods available to walk you through the removal. If you follow the steps outlined above and address any troubleshooting issues, it will ensure a clean and complete removal. Remember to remove any associated software and check for leftover drivers for a thorough cleanup.