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Introduction
When you switch your PC’s operating system to Windows 7, you will need to reestablish communication between your HP printer and your PC. Get detailed instructions for downloading and installing a free HP printer driver to get your computer and your HP printer back to running in perfect harmony.
Sync up your PC and your printer
Now that you’ve updated your PC’s operating system to Windows 7, it’s a good idea to update your printer driver as well.
If you’ve updated to Windows 7 and find you’re not getting the same performance from your HP printer, it’s probably time to download a new printer driver to get things back in working order. (Your printer driver is the software that enables your computer and your printer to “talk” to one another.)
It’s a good idea to update your driver any time you purchase a new printer, change your network, or begin using a new computer.
Step 1: Visit HP Support & Drivers
• You’ll be asked to select a task — choose Download drivers and software.
• Enter your printer’s product name or number. If you aren’t sure what your product number is, click How do I find my product name/number.
Step 2: Choose an operating system
To determine if your PC has a 32-bit or 64-bit operating system, check System type, located within the System category.
Next, you’ll be asked to choose your operating system:
• There will be two options for Windows 7: Windows 7 (32 bit) and Windows 7 (64) bit.
• Choose the appropriate option for your PC.
If you’re not sure if your operating system is 32-bit or 64-bit, follow these steps to check:
• From the PC Start menu, right click Computer.
• Select Properties.
• Find the System heading and locate System type. Here it will tell you whether your operating system is 32-bit or 64-bit.
Choose your download
Choose the Basic or Full feature option for your driver.
A list of compatible software and drivers will appear. There will be two choices under Driver: Basic or Full Feature.
• The Basic option includes a driver for printing only.
• The Full feature option includes drivers and software for multiple functions and applications, such as scanning, photo management, faxing, etc.
Double click on the driver you’d like to install (Basic or Full Feature) and choose Download only to save to your download folder.
If you don't see a Full feature driver option listed for your printer, check back periodically—HP is still in the process of updating the Full feature Windows 7 drivers for several older HP printer models.
Step 4: Install your new driver
The HP Print Software Patch is available on the same page as the Windows 7 printer driver.
Once the driver is downloaded, choose Run to begin installing your driver.
A new window will appear. Choose Install and follow the software prompts to install!
If you are upgrading from Windows Vista, you will need to install the driver first, and then install the HP Print Software Patch. This download is available on the same page as the printer drivers described above in the section, Choose your download.
Get additional help
Choose See support and troubleshooting information, and then enter your product number below.
If you need immediate assistance with your HP printer, visit
HP Total Care for award-winning service and support.
Find an HP printer compatible with Windows 7
Use this helpful chart to determine if software and drivers for Windows 7 are available for your HP printer, and to see where to go to download them.
• HP Officejet Pro 8500 Wireless All-in-One: Provides professional colour documents for a cost of up to 50% less per page than lasers1
Learn more
- Find out more about Windows 7 and HP
- Communicate with others on the HP message board for those switching from Microsoft Windows XP to Windows 7.
- Printing tips and how-tos: Get ideas to help you manage your paper usage, keep your printer working well, and find more useful printer features and how to use them.
1Majority of colour laser AiOs <$600, 6/08, OJ Pro with highest-capacity cartridges.
