An HP all-in-one can print normally while scanning fails. Printing and scanning use different drivers and services, so a working printer does not automatically mean the scanner side is configured correctly.
Does this affect you?
Use this if HP Smart, Windows, macOS, or another app cannot detect the scanner, scans fail to start, or the scanner glass/ADF does not respond.
Test scanning in HP Smart first
HP Smart is the clearest starting point for HP scanners.
- Open HP Smart and select the printer.
- Choose Scan.
- If the printer is missing, add it again while on the same Wi-Fi network.
- Try one flatbed scan and one ADF scan if the model has a feeder.
- Note whether HP Smart reports a connection, permissions, or scanner error.
Check connection and permissions
Scanning needs local discovery and, on Mac, permission to access files and devices.
- Restart the printer and computer.
- Confirm both are on the same Wi-Fi network and not separated by guest Wi-Fi or VPN.
- On Mac, check Privacy & Security permissions for HP Smart or the scanning app.
- On Windows, allow HP software through firewall prompts on private networks.
- Try USB temporarily if Wi-Fi scanning keeps failing.
Refresh the scan driver
Use this when the scanner is not detected or the scan button does nothing.
- Remove the HP printer from printer settings.
- Uninstall broken HP utilities if needed.
- Download HP Smart or the full HP software for the exact model.
- Install, add the printer, and test scanning again.
- If Windows still cannot scan, try HP Print and Scan Doctor.
More control
ADF problems are not the same as flatbed problems
If the flatbed scans but the feeder fails, clean the feeder rollers, check for tiny paper scraps, and avoid overloaded stacks.
Printing can work while scanning fails
Do not assume the printer is fine because printing works. Scanner discovery and image capture use separate software components.
Try another scan app
Windows Scan, Preview on Mac, Image Capture, or the manufacturer app can help isolate whether HP Smart or the scanner driver is the weak point.
Sources
- HP Support – Scan with an HP Printer (2025)
- HP Support – HP Print and Scan Doctor (2025)
- Apple Support – Scan Images or Documents Using a Scanner and Your Mac (2025)