What to do first
Confirm the scanner is detected in Printers & scanners, test another scan app, and then check the scanner service and manufacturer package. Do not assume a printer driver alone includes scanning support.
Printer and scanner
Scanner Not Working in Windows 11
Scanner problems can come from the scanner connection, Windows Image Acquisition, permissions, the scan application, or an all-in-one printer driver.
Quick answer
Start with the reversible checks
Why it happens
Why this problem appears
Printing and scanning often use separate components. A printer can print normally while the scanner endpoint or Windows Image Acquisition service is unavailable.
Step by step
Safe troubleshooting order
- Power-cycle the scanner and reconnect USB directly instead of through an unpowered hub.
- Check Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners and look for scanner options.
- Try Windows Scan or the manufacturer's scan utility to separate an app problem from a device problem.
- Confirm Windows Image Acquisition is running in Services and review Privacy & security > App permissions.
- Install the current scanner or all-in-one package from the manufacturer if Windows has only a basic print driver.
Safety note
Know when to stop
Protect important files before resets, driver removal, account changes, or recovery operations. If the symptom points to hardware, repeated software changes can make diagnosis harder.
FAQ
Why can a printer print but not scan?
Printing and scanning can use different drivers and services. The scan endpoint, Windows Image Acquisition service, or scan application may be the failing part.
Is a manufacturer scan app required?
Not always, but some all-in-one devices need the manufacturer's scan component for feeder, duplex, or network scanning features.