printer driver error code 43

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Understanding Printer Driver Error Code 43

The “printer driver error code 43” is a generic message displayed in Windows Device Manager, signaling that your operating system has encountered a problem with a hardware device and has consequently stopped it from functioning. While not exclusive to printers, it frequently affects USB-connected printers when their drivers or hardware components fail to communicate correctly with the system.

This error message, typically appearing as “Windows has stopped this device because it has reported problems. (Code 43)”, indicates that one of the drivers controlling the device has notified the operating system of a failure. It’s a critical error that prevents the printer from being recognized or used, demanding immediate troubleshooting to restore functionality.

Common Causes of Error Code 43 for Printers

Several factors can trigger a Code 43 error on your printer:

• Corrupted or Outdated Drivers: The most common culprit, where the printer’s driver software is either damaged, incompatible with your current Windows version, or simply obsolete.
• Hardware Malfunction: This could involve the printer itself, a faulty USB cable, or a malfunctioning USB port on your computer.
• Software Conflicts: Other installed software or drivers might interfere with your printer’s driver, leading to the error.
• Outdated BIOS or Windows: An outdated system BIOS or missing Windows updates can sometimes cause communication issues between hardware and the operating system.
• Power Supply Issues: Insufficient power to a USB device, especially for power-hungry printers, can trigger this error.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting to Fix Printer Driver Error Code 43

Follow these steps in order to resolve the Code 43 error and get your printer working again:

1. Restart Your Computer and Printer

Often, a simple restart can resolve temporary glitches. Turn off your computer and printer, disconnect the printer’s power cable and USB cable. Wait for a few minutes, then reconnect everything and restart your computer and printer. For laptops, consider removing the battery (if possible) for a few minutes before restarting.

2. Disconnect and Reconnect the Printer

Sometimes, the connection itself might be the issue. Safely disconnect your printer’s USB cable from the computer. Try connecting it to a different USB port. If you’re using a USB hub, try connecting the printer directly to a USB port on your computer.

3. Update, Roll Back, or Reinstall Printer Drivers

Driver issues are a primary cause of Code 43. This is the most crucial step.

How to Access Device Manager:

• Right-click the Start button (or press Windows Key + X) and select “Device Manager”.
• Locate your printer. It might be listed under “Printers”, “Print queues”, “Other devices”, or “Universal Serial Bus controllers” and will likely have a yellow exclamation mark next to it.
• Right-click on the problematic device and select “Properties” to see the error message.

a. Update Device Drivers:

Windows Update often provides the latest drivers.

• In Device Manager, right-click your printer and select “Update driver”.
• Choose “Search automatically for updated driver software”.
• If Windows finds a new driver, it will install it. Restart your computer if prompted.

b. Roll Back Device Drivers:

If the error appeared after a recent driver update, rolling back to a previous version might help.

• In Device Manager, right-click your printer and select “Properties”.
• Go to the “Driver” tab and click “Roll Back Driver” if the option is available.
• Follow the on-screen instructions and restart your computer.

c. Uninstall and Reinstall Device Drivers:

This is often the most effective driver-related fix, as it provides a fresh installation.

• In Device Manager, right-click your printer and select “Uninstall device”.
• Confirm the uninstallation, then restart your computer.
• Windows will usually attempt to reinstall the driver automatically upon restart.
• If not, go to “Action” in Device Manager’s menu bar and select “Scan for hardware changes”.
• If the problem persists, you’ll need to manually download the latest official driver.

4. Download and Install Official Drivers Manually

The most reliable source for printer drivers is the manufacturer’s official website.

• Identify your exact printer model number. It’s usually on a label on the printer itself.
• Visit your printer manufacturer’s support website (e.g., HP Support, Canon USA, Epson, Brother Support, Xerox Support).
• Navigate to the “Support” or “Drivers & Downloads” section.
• Enter your printer model number into the search bar.
• Download the latest driver package compatible with your operating system (e.g., Windows 10/11 64-bit).
• Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen prompts. Restart your computer after installation.

5. Disable and Re-enable the Device

This simple step can sometimes refresh the device’s configuration within Windows.

• In Device Manager, right-click your printer and select “Disable device”.
• Confirm the action.
• Right-click the printer again and select “Enable device”.

6. Check for Windows Updates

Ensure your Windows operating system is fully up to date, as Microsoft often releases patches that can resolve hardware compatibility issues.

• Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update (or Settings > Windows Update in Windows 11).
• Click “Check for updates” and install any available updates.

7. Consider Hardware Replacement or Professional Help

If all software and driver troubleshooting steps fail, the Code 43 error might indicate a genuine hardware problem with the printer itself or your computer’s USB controller.

• Try connecting the printer to another computer to see if it works there. If it does, the problem is with your original computer.
• If the printer still fails on another computer, the printer hardware might be defective.
• At this point, you might consider contacting the printer manufacturer’s support or a professional repair service.

Conclusion

While printer driver error code 43 can be frustrating, it is often resolvable by systematically addressing potential driver and hardware issues. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you can diagnose and fix the problem, ensuring your printer returns to optimal working condition.