How to Turn Off Automatic Firmware Updates on HP Printers

How to Turn Off Automatic Firmware Updates on HP Printers

If you have an HP printer and use compatible ink or toner cartridges, you may run into an issue where your printer stops recognising third-party cartridges. That’s because some automatic firmware updates from HP include changes that may block or reduce compatibility with non-HP branded consumables.

It's a cunning ploy by HP designed to make it hard for HP printer owners to use significantly lower cost third-party cartridges instead of the highly-priced genuine ones HP makes a lot of money from selling.  

Turning off automatic firmware updates doesn’t guarantee everything will work perfectly forever (HP may still force updates in some cases), but it gives you more control.

Below you’ll find step-by-step instructions for how to turn off automatic firmware updates on many current HP printers - including OfficeJet, ENVY, LaserJet, and DeskJet models.

Watch: How to Turn Off HP Printer Firmware Updates

Prefer to see how it’s done? This short video shows how to disable firmware updates on HP printers. Watch it first, then follow the step-by-step guide below.

Step-by-Step Guide

Here are the main methods you can use: via the printer’s control panel, the HP Smart app, or the printer’s embedded web server (EWS) or HP software on your computer. Choose the one that suits your setup.

Method 1: Using the Printer Control Panel

1. Make sure your printer is switched on and connected (wired or wireless) to your network.
2. On the printer’s display, go to Setup, Settings, or the gear icon (exact wording depends on model).
3. Navigate to Printer Maintenance → Update the Printer → Printer Update Options.
4. Select Do Not Check, Off, or Disable Automatic Updates.
5. If prompted “Do you want to turn on Printer Updates?”, select No.
6. Exit settings, then restart your printer to make sure the change takes effect.

Method 2: Using the HP Smart App (Mobile or Desktop)

1. Open the HP Smart app and sign in if required.
2. Select your printer from the list of connected devices.
3. Go to Settings or Advanced Settings (gear icon).
4. Look for Firmware Updates, Printer Update, or Printer Maintenance.
5. Select Disable, Do not check for updates, or Off.
6. Restart your printer to ensure the setting applies.

Method 3: Using the Embedded Web Server (EWS) or HP Software

1. Print a network configuration page or check your printer’s display to find its IP address (e.g. 192.168.x.x).
2. Enter that IP address into your web browser to open the printer’s Embedded Web Server (EWS).
3. Navigate to Security → Printer Firmware Update (path may differ by model).
4. Select Disable Automatic Updates or tick the checkbox for Disable.
5. Click Apply or Save, then restart the printer.

Cautions & Tips

• Security & reliability trade-off: Firmware updates often include patches or performance improvements. If you disable them, you’ll need to check manually on HP’s support site for important updates.
• Not all HP printers allow disabling: Some models (especially HP+ printers) may prevent turning off updates or lock the setting.
• If a compatible cartridge stops working: Turning off updates prevents future blocks but won’t fix a cartridge already affected by an update.
• Disable HP Web Services: On some printers, Web Services can re-enable automatic updates in the background — consider turning them off too.
• Manual checks recommended: Check for trusted HP updates manually every few months.
• Firmware vs cartridge compatibility: Compatible cartridges depend on firmware staying at a certain version. A forced update may change that.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What happens if I disable HP printer firmware updates?

Your printer will stop automatically downloading and installing HP-pushed firmware. You’ll have fewer surprises with compatible cartridges but will need to monitor for critical updates manually.

Why won’t my HP printer recognise a compatible cartridge after an update?

HP firmware updates can change cartridge chip validation or security checks. If your printer recently updated, your compatible cartridge may no longer be recognised. Turning off future updates helps prevent repeat issues.

I turned off updates but my HP printer still updated — why?

Some HP+ or Web Services-enabled printers may override the setting. You might need to disable Web Services or block HP update servers via your router if updates continue.

Can I revert a firmware update?

Sometimes — but it’s risky and not officially supported by HP. Rolling back can cause instability. Only attempt if you’re confident and have model-specific instructions.

Does disabling updates affect warranty?

Generally no, but if an issue arises due to outdated firmware, HP may deny free repairs. Always check your warranty conditions.

Conclusion

If you’re buying compatible HP cartridges from Good Egg, controlling firmware updates can help keep your printing reliable and affordable. Follow the steps above to turn off HP printer firmware updates and avoid unwanted cartridge errors.

Happy printing!