Error in Windows. Random printer switch to "HP M101-M106"
There seems to be a major issue with printers in Windows 10 and 11. Following a recent update, the systems began randomly modifying the metadata of installed printers. As a result, even virtual printers installed on Windows may appear as an "HP LaserJet M101-M106" model.
8:43 AM EST, December 4, 2023
Windows Latest reports the specifics of the issue. Apparently, after updating the HP printer metadata via Windows Update, an ill-prepared XML file containing device names was released on both Windows 10 and 11. This resulted in the "HP LaserJet M101-M106" model name being randomly assigned to other printers, even those from different manufacturers, as well as virtual printers within Windows systems.
Microsoft has acknowledged the problem in Windows 10 and 11 but has not provided a solution. Thankfully, the erroneous printer model information does not affect the operation of the actual installed devices. It only changes the system icon and the device name seen next to a specific printer. This issue with printer naming may prompt Windows to automatically download the HP Smart app, a topic that was discussed a few days ago.
Windows Latest suggests that reinstalling Windows may resolve the naming issue. However, proposing such a significant operation as a solution to such a minor problem is hardly practical. It's reasonable to anticipate that an updated XML file with the correct printer names will arrive via Windows Update at the earliest opportunity, thereby rectifying the incorrect device name assignments.
