How to Delete Printer Drivers in Windows 11

This guide explains how to remove printer drivers in Windows 11. When you uninstall a printer, Windows often leaves the driver files behind. These files take up space and can sometimes cause conflicts if they are corrupted.

Why delete printer drivers?

If you no longer use a printer, there is no reason to keep its driver on your computer. Removing old drivers clears up storage space and keeps your system clean.

What happens when done?

Once you finish these steps, the driver package is completely removed from your system. You will need to download and install the driver again if you decide to use that printer in the future.

Step 1: Remove the printer

Before you delete the driver, you must remove the printer from your settings.

• Open Settings by pressing Windows key + I or by clicking Start > Settings.

  

• Click Bluetooth & devices on the left.
• Select Printers & scanners on the right.

  

• Click on the name of the printer you want to delete.

  

• Click the Remove button.

  

Step 2: Delete the printer driver

Note: This step requires administrator privileges.

Now that the printer is gone, you can remove the actual driver package. Open Control Panel in Windows 11 Control Panel.

• Click System and Security.

  

• Click Windows Tools.

  

• In the window that opens, double-click Print Management.
• On the left side, click the arrow next to Custom Filters to expand it.
• Select All Drivers.
• Right-click the driver you want to remove and select Remove Driver Package.

  

• Click Yes to confirm.

Summary

Removing old printer drivers is a great way to maintain your PC. By following these steps, you remove the printer from your device list and then wipe the leftover driver files from your system using the Print Management tool. This helps keep your computer running smoothly and saves disk space.