When I try to scan a document via the HP solution center I get the error message" The scan cannot be performed because another program or computer is using the networked device" How do I fix?

I had the same problem with my HP OfficeJet 6310x and Solution Center, running Windows XP and Windows Firewall.

First, yes, turning off the firewall completely does work (at least for me) if you want an immediate (however temporary) fix. But if you don't want to remain unprotected or have to keep turning it on/off just to use your scanner, you can go into the settings to create exceptions for your printer. Here are the steps that worked for me:

First download and run the Fix Scan Utility as described in "Solutions Six" on HP's page: http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/document?docname=c00654095&lc=en&cc=be&lang=nl&rule=38930&dlc=nl&product=1120043

For me, the above solution got rid of the "scan cannot be performed..." message window, however when I tried to scan, I would get a the "Server Busy" message window asking to "Switch to" or "Retry."

Next, go into Windows Firewall to add and/or make sure the scanning program is checked as an exception:

Go to Control Panel and open Windows Security Center.

Click to open Windows Firewall and go to the Exceptions tab.

Check the programs you are using if they aren't checked already. The one specific to scanning is hpqscnvw.exe. Press OK.

The second step is adding the networked printer as an exception:

While still in the Windows Firewall settings,

Select Advanced tab.

Under Network Connection Settings find and select "Local Area Connection" and click Settings...

Under Services, the simple thing to do select and check Web Server(HTTP) and click Edit. (alternatively you could Add and create a new service)

Now under Service Settings you want to enter the location of your network printer/scanner. You'll need the IP address or the Host name. I recommend entering the Host Name especially if your printer is acquiring its IP dynamically. You can find the IP and Host name several ways. The easiest low-tech way is to physically go to your printer/scanner, press the Setup button until you get to network settings, press Ok, and then print them out.

Click Ok after you've entered this and you're done.

The changes should be immediate and not require closing Solution Center or a restart.

Check these link for more information:

http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/document?docname=c00654095&lc=en&cc=be&lang=nl&rule=38930&dlc=nl&product=1120043

http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/document?docname=c01374430&lc=en&cc=us&dlc=&product=1153494&rule=6284


Good Luck!!!!!!!!!!!!

Try restarting your OS and power cycling your scanner then try again