scan to computer will not work

First confirm that Windows 11 can detect the network scanner; if it can, enable Scan to Computer in the printer manufacturer’s Windows software because that message refers to the printer’s PC-side scanning feature.

1. Confirm the network connection and Windows detection

1. Make sure the printer and computer are connected to the same Wi‑Fi network name (SSID). Guest networks, Wi‑Fi extenders using another SSID, and VPN connections can prevent scanner discovery.
2. On the PC, open Start → Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners.
3. Look for the printer:
   • If it is absent, select Add device.
   • Wait several minutes for discovery.
   • If it is still absent, select Add a new device manually and follow the prompts.

Windows requires a wireless printer to be on the same network as the PC for discovery.^1^

2. Test scanning from Windows

Open the Windows Scan app and select the printer/scanner.

• If scanning works: Windows can communicate with the scanner. Open the printer manufacturer’s application and enable its Scan to Computer, Scan to PC, or Computer Scan feature. The exact menu depends on the manufacturer and model.
• If the scanner is not listed: continue with the steps below.
• If the Scan app itself fails: go to Settings → Apps → Installed apps → Scan → Advanced options, select Repair, and test again. If necessary, select Reset and retest.^2^

For an HP printer only, the commonly documented path is HP Printer Assistant → Print, Scan & Fax → Manage Scan to Computer, then select Enable. This path does not apply automatically to Canon, Brother, Epson, or other brands.^3^

3. If Windows cannot detect the scanner

1. Press Windows+R, enter services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Find Windows Image Acquisition (WIA).
3. Right-click it and select Restart.
4. Reopen Windows Scan and test again. WIA is the Windows service used to detect and communicate with scanners.^2^

If it remains unavailable:

1. Open the printer manufacturer’s official support website.
2. Search for the exact printer model.
3. Download the latest Windows 11 full software package or scanner driver, not only a basic printing driver.
4. Install it and restart the computer. Manufacturers may provide updated software and drivers needed for complete multifunction-printer support.^4^

Also check Settings → Windows Update → Advanced options → Optional updates. Install any printer or scanner driver updates shown there, and then restart.^5^

4. Last resort: remove and add the device again

Removing the device clears its existing Windows configuration.

1. Go to Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners.
2. Select the printer and choose Remove.
3. Restart the PC.
4. Return to Printers & scanners, select Add device, and add the network printer again.^6^
5. Reopen the manufacturer’s software and enable Scan to Computer.

If the message remains, the printer’s brand and exact model are needed to identify the correct Scan-to-Computer menu and software package.

References

1. [Windows 11](https://support.microsoft.com/windows/hardware/printer/add-or-install-a-printer-in-windows#install-a-network-or-wireless-printer)
2. Win 11 scanner - Microsoft Q&A
3. Stop Alerts Scan to Computer in no longer activated on Windows 11 - Microsoft Q&A
4. [Windows 11](https://support.microsoft.com/windows/hardware/printer/download-and-install-the-latest-printer-drivers#option-2-download-and-install-printer-drivers-from-the-manufacturer's-website)
5. [Windows 11](https://support.microsoft.com/windows/hardware/drivers/automatically-get-recommended-and-updated-hardware-drivers#summary)
6. [Windows 11](https://support.microsoft.com/windows/hardware/printer/fix-printer-connection-and-printing-problems-in-windows)