Scanner Not Working on an All-in-One Printer — Step-by-Step Fix
When the print function works but the scanner doesn't, the fix is usually a missing software component or a connection issue. This guide covers both USB and network scanners on Windows 10 and 11.
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All-in-one printers that can both print and scan sometimes develop a split personality — printing works fine, but scanning does nothing. The most common culprits are a missing scan driver, a firewall block, or the Windows Image Acquisition service not running.
Step 1: Check the Windows Image Acquisition (WIA) Service
Scanning in Windows depends on a service called Windows Image Acquisition. If it's stopped, no scanner will work.
- Press Win + R, type
services.msc, and press Enter. - Scroll to Windows Image Acquisition (WIA).
- If it shows Stopped, right-click it and choose Start. Also confirm its Startup type is set to Automatic.
Step 2: Install the Full Driver Package
Many people install only the basic print driver and don't realize the scan functionality needs a separate or full software package. Visit your manufacturer's support page, search for your printer model, and download the full driver and software package (not just the basic print driver). HP calls this the "full feature software"; Epson and Canon have combined driver installers.
Step 3: Try Windows Fax and Scan
Open the Start menu and search for Windows Fax and Scan. Click New Scan. If your scanner appears and works here, the hardware is fine — the issue is with your third-party scanning app. If it doesn't appear here either, the problem is deeper.
Step 4: Check Your Firewall (Network Scanners)
If the printer is connected over Wi-Fi or Ethernet, Windows Firewall or third-party security software may be blocking the scan protocol. Go to Control Panel > Windows Defender Firewall > Allow an app through firewall and make sure your printer's software is allowed on both private and public networks.
Step 5: Use the Manufacturer's Scan App
- HP: Open HP Smart and use the Scan tile.
- Epson: Use Epson ScanSmart.
- Canon: Use IJ Scan Utility.
- Brother: Use ControlCenter4 or iPrint&Scan.
If scanning works in the manufacturer app but not in another program (like Paint or Word), the issue is with how that other program communicates with the scanner. Try selecting the scanner source inside that app under File > Import or Insert > Scan.
Need more help? Ask us.
Frequently asked questions
The scanner worked yesterday and now it's gone from the list entirely. What happened?
A Windows Update sometimes removes or replaces scan drivers. Reinstalling the full software package from the manufacturer's website almost always restores it. Also check that the WIA service is still set to Automatic startup — updates can sometimes reset service settings.
Can I scan without installing any software?
Yes, for most modern printers. Windows 10 and 11 include basic scan support via Windows Fax and Scan and the Scan app from the Microsoft Store. You can also go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners, click your device, and select Open print queue — some printers show a Scan option there too.
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