You've hit a common and frustrating limitation of Windows 11 in S mode. It's designed for enhanced security and performance by only allowing apps from the Microsoft Store. Unfortunately, this means that traditional printer drivers, which are often not distributed through the Store, won't install.
Here's a breakdown of the problem and potential workarounds, keeping in mind your need for a simple solution:
Understanding the Issue
S Mode Restrictions: Windows 11 S mode severely restricts software installation to only those apps available in the Microsoft Store. This is why you can't use the drivers downloaded from Canon's website.
Driver Availability: Printer manufacturers, including Canon, typically provide drivers as traditional software installations, not as Microsoft Store apps.
Microsoft Store Limitations: The Microsoft Store doesn't always have drivers for all printers, especially older models like the Pixma MX922.
Workarounds (Ordered from Simplest to More Complex)
Check for Windows Update Drivers:
Sometimes, Windows Update can automatically find and install drivers for compatible printers.
How to:
Go to Settings > Windows Update.
Click Check for updates.
If any updates are found, install them and then try adding your printer again.
Limitations: This relies on Microsoft having the drivers in their update catalog, which isn't guaranteed.
Use "Add a Printer" and Let Windows Find It:
Windows has a built-in "Add a printer" wizard that might detect your Pixma MX922s and install basic drivers.
How to:
Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
Click Add device.
Wait for Windows to scan for printers. If your printer is found, select it and follow the on-screen instructions.
If it is not found, select "Add manually" and follow the prompts.
Limitations: The drivers installed this way might have limited functionality compared to the full Canon drivers.
Print via Network Sharing (If Applicable):
If the Pixma MX922s are already working on other computers on your network, you might be able to print from the Windows 11 S mode computer by sharing the printers.
How to (on a non S-mode computer):
On a computer where the printers are working, go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
Select the printer you want to share.
Click Printer properties.
Go to the Sharing tab.
Check the box that says Share this printer.
Give the printer a share name.
Click OK.
How to (on the Windows 11 S mode computer):
Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
Click Add device.
If the shared printer appears, select it. If not, select "Add manually" and then "Select a shared printer by name" and type in the share name.
Limitations: This requires another computer on the network to be running and sharing the printers.
Switch Out of S Mode (Most Effective, But Permanent):
The most reliable solution is to switch your Windows 11 computer out of S mode. This will allow you to install the drivers from Canon's website.
Important: Switching out of S mode is a one-way process. You cannot switch back.
How to:
Go to Settings > System > Activation.
Find the section labeled "Switch to Windows 11 Home" or "Switch to Windows 11 Pro".
Click Go to the Store.
Follow the on-screen instructions to switch out of S mode.
Limitations: You will lose the security and performance benefits of S mode, and you cannot return to S mode.
I hope this helps!
E-ZPassMD
