Windows 10 printer drivers & scanners from Windows Update

Those using the latest version of Windows 10 (lucky ones who didn't delete their files) can connect printers or scanners without installing drivers from third-party repositories. How can this happen; The necessary drivers will automatically download to their operating system via Windows Update.

Windows Installation ISOs include basic drivers for printers and scanners prior to Windows 10 version 1809, and installation automatically takes place once a printer or scanner hardware is detected by the operating system.

From the Windows 10 1809 version, Windows 10 installation ISO does no longer include much of the default printer or scanner drivers.

Microsoft said it changed the way it distributes printer drivers and scanners from Windows 10 October 2018 Update.

Windows 10 drivers - What the company says:

Users upgrading from a previous version of Windows to build 1809 will not notice any differences as the printer drivers and scanners will continue to work just like before.
If a new printer or scanner is connected to a Windows 10 device, Windows will automatically use Windows Update to download and install the new driver.
If Windows Update is blocked or unavailable, e.g. if the machine is offline, the necessary drivers will not be installed automatically.

In other words: The default printer and scanner drivers will only be installed if your system is connected to Windows Update.

Why did Microsoft make the change (and a bit of black humor)?

Ron Martinsen of the Windows Print Group he says that Microsoft wanted to reduce the footprint of the operating system to give users more storage space.

To reduce the footprint of Windows and give users more storage space, these drivers will no longer come with the operating system and will be available through Windows Update.

SS.: Obviously the delete files with the installation of Windows 10 October 2018 Update serves the same purpose.

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• Window 10: The long journey of paid credibility