Why can’t I print from Internet Explorer?
Q: I have recently purchased 2 hp computers with windows 7 64-bit and have trouble printing several things from different web sites. I have downloaded updated drivers for the printers but this did not help. The system is using Internet Explorer 8. Is there a setting I need to change to make it work? I have a laptop tha uses Windows XP and I have no problem printing with it. - Mike from Indianapolis
A: Mike, I suspect you are using the 64-bit version of Internet Explorer 8 on your computer which is most likely the culprit. The 64-bit version of Internet Explorer has a few shortcomings, one of which is that the ActiveX controls it relies on to print aren't currently supported. And if you've ever tried to watch a YouTube video using the 64-bit version of Internet Explorer 8, you've probably discovered a second shortcoming which is the lack of a 64-bit Adobe Flash player.
Your best bet is to stick with the 32-bit version of Internet Explorer 8 which should also be installed on your 2 HP computers. On my Windows 7 computer, the 32-bit version of Internet Explorer is listed as "Internet Explorer" while the 64-bit version is listed as "Internet Explorer (64-bit)". Use the one that just says "Internet Explorer" and you should be able to print again.
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1 comment for this blog post so far...
March 26, 2011 at 12:07 pm
Annette
You said, your new computers that you are having trouble with are 64, bit but I am willing to bet your laptop is a 32bit. I have seen several posts about compatibility problems with IE and 64. You can go to http://www.BING.com and do a Brolean search. That should give you the answer for the current problem and alert you to other problems or glitches you might encounter. Have a nice day.
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