Lost my printers and the ability to add them back after 8/2/25 system update

Steve Berube 20 Reputation points
2025-08-13T13:03:01.6066667+00:00

My system was update with new version dated 8/12/2025.

2025-08 Cumulative Update for Windows 11 Version 24H2 for x64-based Systems (KB5063878) (26100.4946)

Now I am unable to print anything. I checked and have no printers listed. Tried to add a printer but it only finds one of two printers and then when I select that one printer, the system just locks up. Get message " system not responding".

It seems then update took away my ability to have printers.

Can I go back to the previous window version?

Appreciate the help.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Devices and drivers
Answer accepted by question author
SD - IA 180.9K Reputation points Independent Advisor
2025-08-13T15:23:02.28+00:00

Hi Steve,

I'm Sumit, here to help with your query on the Microsoft Q&A forums.

Apologies for any inconvenience you are experiencing. I am happy to help you today.

To remove the most recent update, please follow these steps to access the Windows Recovery environment:

  1. Open the Settings app by pressing the Win + I keys.
  2. Navigate to System > Recovery.
  3. Click the "Restart Now" button next to Advanced Startup.
  4. Choose the Troubleshoot option.
  5. Select "Uninstall Updates," then choose either "Uninstall Latest Quality Update" or "Uninstall Latest Cumulative Update."

Allow the process to complete.

Please pause the update for the time being and check.

I look forward to your response and am eager to collaborate until we find a solution.

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  1. Palcouk 2,926 Reputation points
    2025-08-13T16:08:57.53+00:00

    That win update was an optional update and not critical.

    You install printers direct from that printer makers support site, the full feature software, and follow the setuo prompts.

    Seeems that you have amended the default winupdate settings

    Win11 by default only installs critical security updates, unless you made the mistake of selecting “Get latest updates” which includes drivers.

    See your laptop/PC makers support to update both bios and makers drivers.

    There should be a shortcut to that makers update utility on your system.

    Then set Bios to defaults & Pwr to balanced. At the end of the day shutdown, do not leave in sleep.                                                                                                              

    Do NOT update from any other source inc Device Manager

    You only need to set the Advanced options for notify & Time, then leave win update to do its own thing.

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