Xerox Phaser 3117 Driver – Free Official Printer Software for Windows
You have a reliable old printer that still works perfectly. The only problem? You lost the driver CD years ago, or you just upgraded to a newer version of Windows. Suddenly, your computer does not recognize your printer anymore. This is a common frustration, but for owners of the Xerox Phaser 3117, there is a simple solution.
The Xerox Phaser 3117 is a classic monochrome laser printer known for its durability and sharp text output. It was built to last, and many of these printers are still in use today in home offices, small businesses, and schools. However, to keep it running on modern Windows versions, you need the correct driver software.
Fortunately, the official driver is available as a free download. This driver acts as the translator between your computer and the printer. Without it, your print jobs will never leave the screen. With it, your Phaser 3117 will hum back to life, producing crisp black-and-white documents just like it did on day one.
In this article, we will walk you through everything you need to know about the Xerox Phaser 3117 driver: its features, how to install it correctly, system requirements, and troubleshooting tips. Whether you are a tech novice or an experienced IT user, this guide will help you get your printer working again.
Software Overview
The Xerox Phaser 3117 driver is an official software package released by Xerox Corporation. The version available on CNET Download is version 1.30, and it is designed specifically for the Windows operating system.
This driver is not a full software suite with additional tools or utilities. It is a pure printer driver—a lean, focused piece of software that does one job and does it well. It enables communication between your Windows computer and the Phaser 3117 printer via USB connection (or parallel port, depending on your setup).
The driver supports a wide range of Windows versions, from legacy systems like Windows NT and Windows 2000 up to Windows 10. This broad compatibility is rare and valuable. It means you can keep using your Phaser 3117 even if you have upgraded your computer multiple times over the years.
Once installed, the driver integrates directly into Windows’ printing system. You will see the Xerox Phaser 3117 appear in your “Devices and Printers” list. From there, you can access basic printing preferences such as paper size, orientation, print quality (draft vs. normal vs. high), and number of copies.
Because this is an official driver from Xerox, it is stable, secure, and free from malware—as long as you download it from a trusted source like CNET Download or the official Xerox website. Avoid third-party driver download sites that bundle unwanted software.
Main Features with Detailed Descriptions
1. Official Xerox Digital Signature
The most important feature of this driver is its authenticity. It carries an official digital signature from Xerox Corporation. This means Windows will recognize it as a trusted driver and will not show security warnings during installation.
For users, this provides peace of mind. You are not installing a hacked or modified driver that could contain malware or cause system instability. You are using the exact same software that Xerox intended for the Phaser 3117.
2. Broad Windows Compatibility
Unlike many modern printer drivers that only support Windows 10 and 11, the Phaser 3117 driver reaches back to older versions. It works on:
- Windows 10 (32-bit and 64-bit)
- Windows XP (Service Pack 2 or later)
- Windows 2000
- Windows 2003 Server
- Windows NT 4.0
This broad support makes the driver invaluable for organizations that still run legacy systems. It also helps home users who have older computers dedicated to specific tasks.
3. Basic Print Preferences Interface
Once installed, you can access the printer’s properties. The driver provides a straightforward dialog box with essential settings:
- Paper Size: Choose from Letter, Legal, A4, Executive, and more.
- Orientation: Portrait (vertical) or Landscape (horizontal).
- Print Quality: Draft (faster, uses less toner), Normal (standard), or High (best quality for detailed graphics).
- Copies: Set the number of copies (1 to 999).
- Paper Type: Select between plain paper, thick paper, envelopes, or labels.
These settings are saved per print job or as defaults, depending on your preference.
4. Automatic Driver Installation via Windows Update
In some cases, you do not even need to manually download the driver. When you connect a Phaser 3117 to a Windows 10 PC, the operating system may automatically find and install the driver through Windows Update.
This feature relies on Microsoft’s driver catalog, which includes many legacy Xerox drivers. If automatic installation works, you can skip the manual download entirely. However, having the standalone installer (version 1.30) is useful for offline computers or when automatic detection fails.
5. Small File Size and Fast Download
The driver package is very small—typically under 5 MB. This makes it quick to download even on slow internet connections. It also means the installation process takes less than a minute.
Unlike modern “printer software” that can be 500 MB or more (bundled with scanning apps, ink monitors, and ads), the Phaser 3117 driver is refreshingly minimal. It respects your hard drive space and does not add background processes that slow down your computer.
6. Support for USB and Parallel Connections
The Phaser 3117 can connect to your computer via two methods:
- USB (Universal Serial Bus): The most common method for modern PCs. The driver fully supports USB Plug and Play.
- Parallel Port (IEEE 1284): An older connection type found on vintage computers. The driver supports parallel connections for users running Windows 2000, XP, or NT on legacy hardware.
This dual support ensures the printer can be used with virtually any Windows computer from the past 20 years.
7. Maintenance and Troubleshooting Tools
Within the driver properties, you will find basic maintenance tools:
- Print a Test Page: Verifies that the driver and printer are communicating correctly.
- Printer Status: Shows if the printer is ready, busy, or has an error (e.g., paper jam or out of toner).
- Toner Level Indicator: Displays an estimate of remaining toner (available with some Phaser 3117 firmware versions).
These tools help you diagnose issues without needing third-party utilities.
System Requirements
The driver itself has very low requirements. The limiting factor is usually your computer’s operating system.
| Requirement Category | Minimum Specification |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows NT 4.0, 2000, XP, 2003, or Windows 10 (32/64-bit) |
| Processor (CPU) | 300 MHz or faster (any processor) |
| Memory (RAM) | 128 MB (512 MB recommended for Windows 10) |
| Storage Space | 20 MB of free space |
| Connection | USB port or parallel port (IEEE 1284) |
| Printer | Xerox Phaser 3117 (monochrome laser printer) |
Note: The driver does not officially support Windows 11, but many users report it works using Windows 10 compatibility mode. Windows 8, 8.1, and Vista are not listed as compatible but may work with manual configuration.
How to Install the Xerox Phaser 3117 Driver (Step-by-Step)
Installing this driver is straightforward. Follow these steps carefully.
Step 1: Download the Driver
Go to the trusted download page (such as the CNET link provided). Click the “Download Now” button. Save the .exe file to your “Downloads” folder.
Step 2: Scan the File (Recommended)
Right-click the downloaded file and select “Scan with Microsoft Defender” (or your antivirus software). This confirms the file is safe before you run it.
Step 3: Connect Your Printer (If Not Already)
Plug the Xerox Phaser 3117 into your computer using a USB cable or parallel cable. Turn the printer on. Windows may attempt to install a generic driver automatically. Allow it to finish, then continue with the manual installation.
Step 4: Run the Installer
Double-click the downloaded .exe file. If Windows SmartScreen appears, click “More info” and then “Run anyway” (since this is an older driver).
Step 5: Accept the License Agreement
The setup wizard will open. Read the license agreement (standard Xerox terms). Click “I Agree” or “Next” to continue.
Step 6: Choose Installation Type
Select “Typical Installation” for most users. This installs the driver with default settings. Advanced users can choose “Custom” to specify installation folders, but this is rarely necessary.
Step 7: Select Your Connection Type
The installer will ask how the printer is connected. Choose:
- USB if you are using a USB cable.
- Parallel if you are using an older parallel port.
- Network (rare for this model) if you have a third-party print server.
Click “Next.”
Step 8: Wait for Driver Installation
The installer will copy files to your system. This takes about 30 seconds. Do not turn off your printer or computer during this process.
Step 9: Complete the Wizard
Click “Finish” to close the installer. You may be prompted to restart your computer. It is not always required, but restarting ensures the driver loads correctly.
Step 10: Print a Test Page
Open the Start menu and go to Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners (Windows 10). Find “Xerox Phaser 3117” in the list. Click it, then select “Manage” > “Print a test page.” If a page prints, the installation was successful.
Pros and Cons Table
This driver is simple, so the pros and cons are straightforward.
| Pros (Advantages) | Cons (Disadvantages) |
|---|---|
| Completely free: No cost to download or use. | No Windows 11 official support: May require compatibility mode. |
| Official Xerox driver: Safe, stable, and digitally signed. | Outdated interface: Looks like a Windows XP-era dialog box. |
| Very small file size: Under 5 MB, fast download. | No 64-bit support for older OS: Windows XP 64-bit may have issues. |
| Broad OS compatibility: Works from Windows NT to Windows 10. | No advanced features: No duplex printing, no booklet printing, no watermarking. |
| Supports USB and parallel connections: Great for legacy hardware. | No wireless or network support: Requires a direct cable connection. |
| No bloatware: Pure driver, no extra utilities or ads. | Manual download required: Not available on Windows Update for some systems. |
| Easy installation: Next-next-finish wizard. | No macOS or Linux support: Windows only. |
Practical Use Cases and Benefits
Use Case 1: The Home User with an Old Reliable Printer
Scenario: You bought a Xerox Phaser 3117 ten years ago. It still prints perfectly. You recently upgraded your old Windows 7 PC to Windows 10. Now the printer does not work.
Benefit: You download the free driver from CNET. Install it in five minutes. Your printer works again, saving you the cost of buying a new printer ($100+). The driver keeps your reliable hardware useful for years longer.
Use Case 2: The Small Business with Mixed Windows Versions
Scenario: Your office has five computers: two on Windows 10, two on Windows XP (running legacy software), and one on Windows 2000 (controlling an old machine). You have one shared Xerox Phaser 3117.
Benefit: The driver works on all three operating systems. You install the same driver package on each computer. Everyone can print to the same reliable printer without upgrading hardware.
Use Case 3: The IT Technician Supporting a Client
Scenario: A client calls saying their printer stopped working after a Windows update. They have a Xerox Phaser 3117. They lost the driver CD.
Benefit: You remotely guide them to download the driver from CNET. You walk them through the installation. The printer works again. The client is happy, and you saved them a service call fee.
Use Case 4: The School Computer Lab with Older Equipment
Scenario: A school has 20 computers running Windows 10 and 15 Xerox Phaser 3117 printers spread across classrooms. The IT budget is zero.
Benefit: The free driver is installed on all computers. The printers, though old, still produce clear text for worksheets and exams. The school avoids buying new printers and uses the budget for other needs.
Use Case 5: The Collector or Hobbyist with a Vintage PC
Scenario: You have a vintage Windows 2000 computer used for retro gaming or running old software. You want to print documentation from it.
Benefit: The Xerox Phaser 3117 driver supports Windows 2000 natively. You install it via parallel port (common on old PCs). You can now print from your vintage machine without emulation or workarounds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is this driver really free? Do I need to register or pay?
Yes, the driver is completely free. Xerox provides it at no cost. You do not need to register, create an account, or enter a serial number. Simply download and install. There are no trial periods, ads, or hidden fees.
Q2: Will this driver work on Windows 11?
Officially, Xerox has not certified version 1.30 for Windows 11. However, many users report successful installation by using Windows 10 compatibility mode. To try this:
- Right-click the installer file.
- Select Properties > Compatibility.
- Check “Run this program in compatibility mode for” and select “Windows 10.”
- Click OK and run the installer.
Even if it installs, test a print page. If it works, you are fine. If not, you may need to use a generic printer driver (like HP LaserJet 4) as a substitute.
Q3: Why is my printer not showing up after installing the driver?
Try these troubleshooting steps:
- Restart your computer and the printer.
- Check the cable: Ensure the USB or parallel cable is firmly connected to both devices. Try a different USB port.
- Check Windows settings: Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners. Click “Add a printer or scanner.” Windows may detect it now.
- Reinstall the driver: Uninstall the driver from “Apps & features,” then install it again.
- Check for driver conflicts: Disconnect other printers temporarily.
If none of these work, your printer may have a hardware issue (e.g., damaged USB port).
Q4: Can I use this driver to print over a network?
Not directly. The Phaser 3117 does not have built-in Ethernet or Wi-Fi. However, you can connect it to a print server device (a small box that connects the printer to your router). In that case, you would install the driver on each computer, then add a “network printer” pointing to the print server’s IP address. The driver still works, but the connection method changes. For most home users, USB is the simplest.
Q5: The driver installs, but prints are garbled or have strange characters. What is wrong?
This usually indicates a driver mismatch or a corrupted driver cache. Follow these steps:
- Uninstall the driver completely.
- Restart your computer.
- Download a fresh copy of the installer (the previous download may be corrupted).
- Before reinstalling, go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers. Remove any existing “Xerox Phaser 3117” entries.
- Reinstall using the “Run as Administrator” option.
If the problem persists, your printer’s firmware may be corrupted. Try a factory reset on the printer (consult your manual).
Q6: Does this driver include scanning software?
No. The Xerox Phaser 3117 is a printer-only device. It does not have a scanner. Therefore, the driver only provides printing functionality. If you need scanning, you would need a separate multifunction printer (MFP) and its corresponding drivers.
Q7: Can I use this driver on a 64-bit version of Windows?
Yes, but with limitations. The driver works on Windows 10 64-bit without issues. However, for older operating systems like Windows XP 64-bit, support is limited. Microsoft’s 64-bit driver model for XP was different, and some users report installation failures. For best results, use the driver on 32-bit Windows versions (except for Windows 10, where 64-bit is fine).
Q8: Is there a newer driver version than 1.30?
Version 1.30 is the latest driver released by Xerox for the Phaser 3117 as of this writing. Since the printer is a legacy model (discontinued), Xerox no longer actively develops new drivers. However, version 1.30 is stable and works across the supported Windows versions. You do not need a newer version.
Q9: The download from CNET is safe, but what about other websites?
Always download drivers from trusted sources. CNET Download is reputable because it scans files for malware. The official Xerox support website is also safe. Avoid generic “driver download” websites that appear in search ads. These sites often bundle adware, toolbars, or even viruses with the driver. If a site asks you to run a “driver updater” .exe before downloading, close the tab immediately.
Q10: How do I uninstall the driver if I no longer need it?
To completely remove the driver:
- Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
- Find “Xerox Phaser 3117” or similar. Click Uninstall.
- Then go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
- Right-click the Xerox Phaser 3117 icon and select Remove device.
- Finally, go to Print Server Properties (right-click in the Devices window, select this). Click the Drivers tab, find the Xerox driver, select it, and click Remove.
This cleans all traces of the driver from your system.
Conclusion
The Xerox Phaser 3117 driver is a perfect example of why legacy hardware can still be valuable. While printer manufacturers want you to buy new models every few years, the Phaser 3117 keeps chugging along, producing sharp black-and-white prints year after year. And thanks to this free, official driver, you do not need to retire it just because you upgraded your computer.
This driver is not fancy. It has no flashy interface, no cloud features, and no mobile printing. But it is stable, reliable, and trustworthy. It does exactly what a printer driver should do: it takes the data from your computer and sends it to the printer in a language the printer understands.
For home users, this driver saves money. For small businesses, it saves time. For schools and nonprofits, it saves budget. And for anyone who hates throwing away perfectly good hardware, it saves the environment from another piece of e-waste.
If you have a Xerox Phaser 3117 gathering dust because you thought it was obsolete, think again. Download the driver today. Connect the cable. Print a test page. Hear that familiar whir of the laser and the thump of the paper exiting the tray. Your old friend still has life left. And now, so does your printing.
