Forum Discussion
Printer only printing in a small strip after fresh Windows 11 install
Hey everyone, I just did a clean install of Windows 11 and reinstalled my printer, and since then everything I print comes out weird. Content only shows up in a tiny strip on the right side of the page while the rest stays blank. Even the Windows test page prints like this.
I've already tried reinstalling the printer, printing a test page, and checking that the page size is set to A4, but nothing changed. Also made sure the paper size matches what's loaded, checked the print preview before sending it, and even tried printing from different apps—same result every time.
Printer is an HP LaserJet MFP M126nw, OS is a fresh Windows 11 install, and I'm using the drivers Windows pulled automatically during setup. Anyone seen this before or know what might be causing it? Appreciate any help.
1 Reply
Because the Windows test page is also compressed into the right-hand strip, this is not an application or print-preview problem. The installation probably selected an incorrect driver or retained an unsuitable device configuration. First print the printer’s own configuration or self-test page from its control panel. If that page is also wrong, troubleshoot the printer hardware. If it is normal, remove the M126nw from Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners, restart both devices, and add it again. Run the printer troubleshooter in the Get Help app. In Printer properties, confirm the correct model and port; in Printing preferences, reset defaults, then select A4, portrait, one page per sheet, and 100% scaling. If Windows still uses a generic class driver, install the driver package for the exact HP model and Windows architecture, then print another Windows test page. Avoid changing application settings until that page prints correctly.
