My good ol mother is having some printer problems, and well I don't know what to do So i thought I would ask yall.

Well basically what is happening is when you plug it in Via USB it pops up in the bottom right to install it or whatever, but after you do that it still doesn't work.. anyone know what could be wrong, sorry I can't be more specific thats all i really knows :|

thanks in advance.

Do you have a option to plug it in via parallel cable?
Try uninstall/reinstall.....

It would help to know the OS and the make/model of the printer.
You have to have the printer software loaded before the USB is connected in many cases.
Security software like NIS or McAfee suite may block printers.

you did't mention the make of the printer, every printer would be supplied with its driver try instlling the s/w, if its an HP Printer try adding the generic driver ie; DJ550c and see if it works