You open a website to get a driver for your Epson printer, and the page shows a long list. Some files have long names, some are very large, and some look the same. It is easy to pick the wrong one. A wrong pick can mean a printer that is not found, a scanner that does nothing or an install that stops halfway. This guide shows you how to pick the right file for your model, step by step, so your Epson driver download works the first time. Set aside about 20 minutes.
To get the right Epson driver, find your exact model name, open epson.com in your browser, search for that model, choose your computer type and system version, and pick the main driver or full software package for your printer. Download it, install it and print a test page. The model name and your system version are the two details that matter most.
The Translator
A driver is a small program that lets your computer talk to your printer. Without it, the computer does not know how to send a page to the printer in the right way.
Why You May Need One
You got a new printer
You changed to a new computer
You updated your system, and the printer stopped working
Your printer prints, but the scanner does not work
Your computer shows the printer as not found
Do You Always Need to Download One?
Not always. Some computers find a basic driver by themselves. But the one from the Epson website usually gives you more features, such as scanning and ink checks.
Before you open the website, write down these three things. They save you from picking the wrong file.
Detail 1: Your Exact Model Name
Look at the front, top or back of your printer. The model name is a short name with letters and numbers. Copy it exactly. A single wrong letter can take you to a different printer.
Detail 2: Your Computer Type
Is it a Windows computer or a Mac? Drivers for the two are different, and they do not work on each other’s systems.
Detail 3: Your System Version
On Windows
Open Settings, go to System, then About. Look at the Windows version and the system type, such as 64-bit.
On a Mac
Click the Apple icon at the top left of the screen and choose About This Mac. Note the macOS version.
Step 1: Open the Website
Open your browser and type epson.com into the address bar yourself. Do not tap links from ads or messages. Look at the address bar after the page loads, and check that it matches what you typed.
Step 2: Find the Downloads Area
Look for a section about drivers, software or downloads. The names can change from time to time, so look for words close to these.
Step 3: Search for Your Model
Type your model name in the search box. Pick your exact printer from the list. If your model has similar names, check the picture and the details.
Step 4: Choose Your System
Pick Windows or Mac, and choose your system version if the page asks. The page may show only files that match your choice.
Step 5: Look at the List of Files
You will see one or more files. The next part explains how to choose.
The Main Driver or Software Package
This is usually the file most people need. It often includes the driver and the programs for printing and scanning. If you are not sure, start here.
Driver Only
Some pages offer just the driver, without extra programs. This is smaller and is useful if you want a light install.
Scanner Software
If your printer also scans, there may be a separate file for the scanner. Check whether your main package already includes it.
Utilities and Tools
These can include tools for checking ink or cleaning the print head. They are useful, but not always needed on day one.
Firmware Updates
A firmware update changes the software inside the printer itself, not your computer. You do not need this for a basic driver install. If you do try one, read the page carefully, and do not turn off the printer during the update.
Which One Should You Pick?
For a first install, pick the main driver or full software package for your model. Add the extras later if you need them.
Download the File
Click the download button for the file you picked. Wait until your browser says the download is done. Large files take time, so be patient.
Find the File
On most computers, you will find it in your Downloads folder.
Install on Windows
Double-click the downloaded file.
If Windows asks whether you want to allow changes, check that the file name looks right, then choose Yes.
Follow the screens and accept the terms.
When asked how the printer is connected, pick Wi-Fi or USB.
Choose your printer from the list, or follow the prompt for a cable.
Wait for the install to end, and restart if it asks.
Install on a Mac
Open the downloaded file.
Follow the screens and accept the terms.
Type your Mac login password when asked.
Add the printer when the installer asks you to.
Wait for the install to finish.
Print a Test Page
Open your printer list on your computer, pick your Epson printer and choose the option to print a test page. You can also print one page of a simple file.
Look at the Page
The text is sharp and dark
All colors show up
The lines are straight, with no gaps
Test the Scanner If You Have One
If your printer scans, try one scan. If it works, your install is complete.
Restart Once
Restart your computer and print again. If it works after a restart, you are done.
Signs of a Wrong Pick
The installer says your printer is not found
The installer says it does not work with your system
The printer prints, but the scanner does not
Your computer shows the wrong printer name
What to Do
Check your exact model name again.
Check your system type and version again.
Go back to the website and search again.
Remove the wrong software from your computer.
Restart your computer.
Download the right file and install it.
How to Remove Old Software
On Windows, open Settings, go to Apps and look for your printer’s name in the list. On a Mac, open the Applications folder and look for it there. Remove it, then restart before you install again.
The Download Does Not Finish
Check your internet and try again. Use another browser, such as Chrome or Edge.
The Installer Will Not Open
Make sure the download is complete. Check that you chose the right system type.
The Computer Cannot Find the Printer
Check that the printer is on and connected to the same Wi-Fi as your computer. For USB, try another port and check the cable. Restart the printer, the router and the computer.
The Printer Shows as Offline
Turn the printer off and on again. Check the connection. Open the printer list and clear any stuck jobs.
Nothing Prints and There Is No Message
Look at the printer queue on your computer and clear stuck jobs. Make sure your Epson printer is chosen.
The Install Stops Partway
Check your storage space. Restart your computer and run the file again.
Keep a note of your model name
Download only from epson.com, typed in by you
Save the installer file in a folder you can find again
Update the driver if your printer starts to act strange after a system update
Do not install two different drivers for the same printer
Restart your computer after each install
Where Do I Get an Epson Driver?
From the Epson website. Type epson.com into your browser yourself, then search for your model name.
Do I Need a Driver for a New Printer?
Often yes, to get all the features such as scanning. Some computers can print with a basic driver, but the one from the website is usually fuller.
Which File Should I Pick?
For a first install, pick the main driver or full software package for your model.
How Do I Find My Model Name?
Look at the front, top or back of the printer. It is also in the booklet.
Can I Use a Driver for a Different Model?
It is not a good idea. Use the file made for your exact model.
Will a Driver for Windows Work on a Mac?
No. Each system needs its own file.
Do I Need to Remove the Old Driver First?
If the old one does not work, remove it and restart before you install the new one.
Is a Firmware Update the Same as a Driver?
No. A driver is software on your computer. A firmware update is software inside the printer.
A smooth Epson driver download comes down to three details: your exact model name, your computer type and your system version. Write them down, open epson.com by typing the address yourself, search for your model and pick the main driver or full software package. Install it, print a test page and restart once. If something does not work, check those three details first, because most problems start there. With the right file, your printer will be ready in a few minutes.