Restore Full Functionality to Your HP Smart Tank Plus 651 Printer

Printer drivers play a crucial role in ensuring smooth communication between your printer and computer. When you experience issues like slow printing, connectivity problems, or malfunctioning features, it could be due to an outdated driver. Ensuring that your HP Smart Tank Plus 651 printer driver is up to date will allow the printer to operate efficiently, unlocking new features and improving functionality.

This guide will provide step-by-step instructions on how to update your HP Smart Tank Plus 651 printer driver. We’ll explore the reasons why keeping drivers current is important and offer a few methods to help you update your printer driver easily, including using DriverAssist, manual updates, and the built-in tools available in Windows.

Why Updating Your HP Smart Tank Plus 651 Printer Driver is Important

Keeping your HP Smart Tank Plus 651 printer driver updated is essential for several key reasons:

1. Compatibility with Newer Operating Systems: Newer versions of Windows may not be compatible with older printer drivers. Updating your driver ensures that your printer continues to work seamlessly with the latest versions of your operating system, such as Windows 10 or Windows 11.
2. Improved Printer Functionality: Driver updates often add new features and refine existing ones, making it easier to use your HP Smart Tank Plus 651 printer. Whether it's quicker print speeds, enhanced print quality, or better error management, each update helps ensure that your printer operates as intended.
3. Bug Fixes and Stability Enhancements: Old drivers can create unexpected glitches in your printer’s operation, such as paper jams or miscommunication between the printer and your computer. An updated driver will improve the stability of your printer and prevent recurring issues.
4. Security Updates: Just like software programs, printer drivers can contain vulnerabilities. Manufacturers frequently release patches to fix security issues. By updating your printer driver, you reduce the risk of encountering security threats or exploits.
5. Better Network Communication: If your HP Smart Tank Plus 651 is connected to a wireless network, an updated driver ensures that it can maintain a stable and reliable connection, reducing the chances of print jobs being lost or interrupted.

Common Issues Caused by Outdated Printer Drivers

Failing to update your printer driver can lead to several frustrating issues. Some common problems include:

1. Slow Printing or Print Queue Delays: An outdated driver can cause delays in sending print jobs to your HP Smart Tank Plus 651 printer, resulting in slower overall print speeds.
2. Print Quality Problems: If the driver is outdated, you may notice a decrease in print quality, such as faded prints, blurry text, or incomplete images.
3. Connectivity Issues: Printer drivers that are not up-to-date may have trouble maintaining a stable connection, especially if your printer is connected to a wireless network. This can cause the printer to go offline or not respond to print commands.
4. Missing Features: New features introduced by HP, such as enhanced paper handling or new print modes, may be unavailable if the printer driver is outdated.
5. Error Messages and System Crashes: Printer-related software errors are often caused by incompatibilities between outdated drivers and the operating system, leading to frequent system crashes or error messages.

How to Update Your HP Smart Tank Plus 651 Printer Driver

Option 1: Update Using DriverAssist (Recommended)

The simplest and most efficient way to update your HP Smart Tank Plus 651 driver is to use a dedicated software tool like DriverAssist. Follow these steps:

1. Download and Install DriverAssist:
   First, download DriverAssist from the official website. Follow the on-screen instructions to install it on your computer. You can download DriverAssist here.
2. Run a System Scan:
   Launch DriverAssist and run a system scan. The software will identify any outdated or missing drivers on your computer, including the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 printer driver.
3. Update the Printer Driver:
   From the list of outdated drivers, find your HP Smart Tank Plus 651 printer and click on “Update.” DriverAssist will automatically download and install the latest driver version.
4. Restart Your Computer:
   After the driver is updated, restart your computer to ensure that all changes are applied.

Option 2: Manual Update via HP’s Website

If you prefer to handle the update manually, follow these steps:

1. Visit the HP Support Website:
   Go to the official HP support website and search for your HP Smart Tank Plus 651 printer model.
2. Select Your Operating System:
   Choose the correct version of your operating system (e.g., Windows 10 or Windows 11) from the drop-down menu.
3. Download the Driver:
   Download the latest driver for your printer.
4. Install the Driver:
   Open the downloaded file and follow the instructions to install the updated driver on your computer.
5. Restart Your Computer:
   Once the driver installation is complete, restart your computer to ensure the update is properly applied.

Option 3: Use Device Manager in Windows

You can also update your printer driver using Windows' Device Manager. Here's how:

1. Open Device Manager:
   Type “Device Manager” in the search bar and open the app.
2. Find Your Printer:
   Under the "Print queues" section, find your HP Smart Tank Plus 651 printer.
3. Update the Driver:
   Right-click on your printer and select “Update Driver.” Then choose “Search automatically for updated driver software.”
4. Restart Your Computer:
   If Windows finds and installs an update, restart your computer to complete the process.

Troubleshooting Common Printer Driver Issues

Even after updating, some issues may persist. Here’s how to troubleshoot common problems:

1. Printer Not Recognized:
   Try unplugging your printer and reconnecting it. Restart both the printer and your computer to resolve connectivity issues.
2. Driver Installation Failed:
   Ensure that you’re logged in with administrative privileges. Also, disable antivirus software temporarily as it might interfere with the installation process.
3. Print Quality Issues:
   If your print quality doesn’t improve after updating, try cleaning the printer heads and adjusting the settings within the printer's control panel.
4. Error Messages During Update:
   Take note of any error messages you encounter. Check HP’s website or community forums for solutions to specific errors.
5. Printer Shows as Offline:
   If your printer appears offline, check its connection to the Wi-Fi network. Restart your router and printer to troubleshoot connectivity issues.

Conclusion

Updating your HP Smart Tank Plus 651 printer driver is crucial to ensure smooth operation, security, and access to the latest features. Whether you choose to update using DriverAssist or manually through HP’s website, ensuring that your driver is current will help resolve issues like slow printing, poor print quality, and connectivity problems. By following the steps in this guide, you can keep your printer functioning efficiently, helping you to focus on your tasks without interruptions.