How to Update HP Printer Firmware?

Keeping your HP printer’s firmware up to date is one of the simplest ways to fix bugs, improve performance, add features, and close security vulnerabilities—without replacing any hardware. Firmware is the printer’s “operating system,” stored inside the device. Just like your phone or computer, your printer’s firmware can be updated to improve reliability, compatibility, and security.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about updating HP printer firmware—from understanding what firmware does, to preparing safely, to multiple update methods (HP Smart app, Windows and macOS utilities, the printer’s Embedded Web Server, USB thumb-drive updates for enterprise models, and fleet tools). You’ll also get troubleshooting steps, rollback guidance, and best practices for home users, small offices, schools, and enterprises.

1) Firmware 101: What It Is and Why It Matters

Firmware is low-level software that lives inside your printer. It controls how the printer initializes, connects to networks, communicates with drivers and apps, manages ink/toner, and processes pages. Updating firmware can:

• Fix bugs that cause crashes, jams, or misprints.

• Improve connectivity with routers, Wi-Fi standards, and authentication methods.

• Add features, such as new security options, language support, or print protocols (e.g., IPP Everywhere enhancements).

• Enhance print quality and color calibration on some models.

• Patch security vulnerabilities to prevent unauthorized access.

Good rule of thumb: If you’re seeing persistent issues (offline errors, Wi-Fi drops, random reboots, color shifts), or if your environment has recently changed (new router, OS upgrade), a firmware update may help.

2) Before You Start: Preparation Checklist

A firmware update is straightforward, but it touches the core of the device. Preparation reduces the risk of interruption or corruption.

1. Identify your exact model.
   Example families include HP DeskJet, ENVY, OfficeJet/OfficeJet Pro, LaserJet/LaserJet Pro, PageWide, and enterprise models running FutureSmart firmware (e.g., LaserJet Enterprise MFP, PageWide Enterprise, Color LaserJet Enterprise).

2. Check current firmware version.

   • On most consumer models: print a Configuration/Self-Test Report from the control panel (Reports/Setup > Reports/Printer Information).

   • On enterprise models: print a Configuration Page or open the Embedded Web Server (EWS) in a browser (enter the printer’s IP).

3. Ensure stable power.

   • Plug the printer into a reliable outlet (avoid power strips with switches).

   • Don’t update during storms or heavy power fluctuation if you can avoid it.

4. Ensure stable network.

   • If updating over Wi-Fi, place the printer near the router.

   • Prefer a wired Ethernet connection for enterprise updates if possible.

5. Pause large print jobs.

   • Finish or cancel active queues. Don’t send jobs during the update.

6. Have your admin rights ready.

   • On Windows/macOS, you may need administrator privileges to install update tools.

7. Back up or note settings (optional).

   • Most updates preserve settings, but for complex fleets, export configs or note IPs, SNMP communities, and security settings.

8. Use official HP sources.

   • Download tools and firmware from HP’s official support pages or app stores. Avoid third-party firmware.

3) How to Update via the HP Smart App (Easiest for Most Home/Office Users)

HP Smart (available on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android) can discover your printer, manage it, and apply updates.

Steps:

1. Install HP Smart from your device’s app store.

2. Open HP Smart and add your printer (ensure both are on the same network, or use Bluetooth for initial discovery on supported models).

3. Select your printer tile → Printer Settings (or Advanced Settings).

4. Look for Printer Updates, Firmware Update, or Advanced > Webpage/EWS.

5. If an update is available, follow the prompts to download and install.

6. Wait until the printer reboots and returns to Ready/Idle.

Tips:

• If HP Smart cannot show updates, it may route you to the Embedded Web Server (EWS) where you can trigger the update.

• Keep the app open until the process completes.

4) Update Using the Printer’s Embedded Web Server (EWS)

Most networked HP printers host an Embedded Web Server. You can update directly from your browser.

Steps:

1. Find the printer’s IP address.

   • Print a network or configuration page from the panel, or check your router’s client list.

2. Open a browser and go to http://<printer-ip> (or https://<printer-ip> if SSL is enabled).

3. Sign in as Administrator if prompted.

4. Navigate to Network/Tools/System (label varies by model) → Firmware Update or Check for Updates.

5. If the printer supports online update, it will fetch and install automatically.

   • If it requires a .bdl/.rfu file upload: download the right firmware package from HP’s support site, then Upload it in the EWS.

6. Wait for the update to complete. The printer may restart multiple times.

Why use EWS?

• Works from any OS with a browser.

• Gives you visibility into logs, status, and sometimes staged updates.

5) Update on Windows (HP Easy Start / Full Feature Software / Firmware Updater)

Windows users have several HP-provided paths:

Method A: HP Easy Start / Full Feature Installer

1. Go to HP’s Software & Driver page for your model.

2. Download HP Easy Start or the Full Feature Software package.

3. Run the installer, add/select your printer.

4. When prompted, opt in to check for updates.

5. If firmware is available, follow the wizard to install it.

Method B: Dedicated HP Firmware Updater (when provided)

1. From your model’s support page, download the Firmware Update Utility.

2. Connect to the printer (USB/Ethernet/Wi-Fi).

3. Launch the utility, select the target printer, and start the update.

4. Do not power off the printer or PC during the process.

Troubleshooting on Windows:

• If the updater can’t find the printer, try temporarily disabling VPN, switching from Wi-Fi to Ethernet, or connecting USB for the update.

• Restart the Print Spooler service if discovery fails (services.msc → Print Spooler → Restart).

6) Update on macOS (HP Easy Start / HP Smart / AirPrint Models)

Method A: HP Smart (Recommended)

1. Install HP Smart from the Mac App Store.

2. Add your printer → Printer Settings → Firmware/Updates if available.

3. Follow the on-screen prompts.

Method B: HP Easy Start or Model-Specific Updater

1. Download HP Easy Start or the Firmware Updater for your model from HP’s support site.

2. Run, select the printer, and apply the update.

Notes for macOS:

• For AirPrint-only setups, HP Smart/EWS is often the easiest way to push firmware.

• If the printer is on a secured network (e.g., 802.1X), update over Ethernet or use EWS from a permitted VLAN.

7) USB Thumb-Drive Update (Enterprise / FutureSmart)

Enterprise-class HP printers and MFPs running FutureSmart firmware often support direct updates from a USB flash drive (FAT32).

Steps (generic FutureSmart workflow; menu names vary):

1. Download the correct .bdl firmware bundle for your exact model and revision.

2. Copy the file to the root of a FAT32 USB stick.

3. Insert the USB stick into the printer’s front USB port (if enabled).

4. On the control panel: Administrator login → Device Maintenance → USB Firmware Upgrade (or Manage Updates).

5. Select the firmware file and confirm.

6. The printer will reboot. Do not remove USB until the process completes.

Why use USB updates?

• Works for isolated networks (air-gapped).

• Reliable for large fleets where network updates might be restricted.

• Helpful when EWS is locked down by policy.

8) HP Web Jetadmin & Fleet Management (IT/Admins)

For organizations with many printers, HP Web Jetadmin (WJA) is the standard:

1. Install HP Web Jetadmin on a server.

2. Discover printers via IP ranges or SNMP.

3. Create a firmware baseline and an update task.

4. Schedule updates during off-hours.

5. Use reports to verify success and remediate failures.

Best practices for fleets:

• Stage updates to a pilot group first (one model per site).

• Document firmware versions, release notes, and rollback plans.

• Coordinate with security and network teams for firewall/SNMP exceptions.

9) Special Considerations & Caveats

9.1 Security & Signed Firmware

• HP firmware is typically digitally signed. Only use official packages.

• Avoid modified or “patched” firmware—this can brick devices or violate policy.

9.2 Cartridge Compatibility Changes

• Some firmware updates adjust cartridge authentication logic. If you rely on third-party supplies, read release notes first.

• For critical operations, keep a known-working firmware copy and test updates with genuine HP supplies.

9.3 Instant Ink & Supplies Reporting

• Firmware can change how ink levels are reported for Instant Ink subscriptions. Updating usually improves accuracy.

9.4 Wi-Fi & Network Profiles

• Major updates can reset or alter network stacks. After updating, verify:

  • Wi-Fi SSID and password

  • 2.4 GHz vs 5 GHz compatibility

  • Static IP / DHCP reservations

  • 802.1X/EAP certificates on enterprise models

9.5 Regional Compliance

• Some features vary by region (fax regulations, language packs). Don’t force another region’s firmware onto your device.

10) Troubleshooting Firmware Updates

If things don’t go as planned, use this decision tree.

Symptom A: Update Utility Can’t Find the Printer

• Ensure same subnet or allow cross-subnet discovery.

• Temporarily disable VPN or captive portals.

• Try USB connection or use EWS for manual upload.

• Check firewall for blocked ports (often 80/443 for EWS, SNMP 161/162, IPP/JetDirect).

Symptom B: Update Starts but Fails Midway

• Verify stable power and network.

• Connect via Ethernet instead of Wi-Fi.

• Re-download the firmware in case the file is corrupted.

• Power cycle printer, wait until Ready, try again.

Symptom C: Printer Reboots Repeatedly After Update

• Perform a cold reset/factory reset (model-specific).

• Reapply the same firmware via USB (if FutureSmart) or EWS.

• If still looping, contact HP support—this could indicate a failed flash or hardware fault.

Symptom D: Lost Settings or Features

• Log into EWS to reapply configurations (TCP/IP, DNS, email, SMB/FTP scan settings).

• For fleets, restore saved configurations via WJA or backup files.

Symptom E: Firmware Shows as “Up to Date,” but Problems Persist

• Confirm you’re checking the engine/controller firmware (some models have multiple components).

• Update drivers on the PC and ensure firmware and driver versions are compatible.

• Try a previous stable firmware if available (see rollback).

11) Rollback: Can You Downgrade HP Firmware?

It depends on the model and policy:

• Consumer models (DeskJet/ENVY/OfficeJet/LaserJet Pro): often block downgrades to protect device integrity and security.

• Enterprise models (FutureSmart): may allow downgrades within a supported range using a .bdl file and admin rights, especially if the signed package policy permits.

If rollback is critical:

1. Check the release notes for downgrade support.

2. Use USB or EWS with the older signed bundle.

3. After rollback, disable automatic updates until you’ve reviewed change control.

12) How Often Should You Update?

• Home/Small Office: Check quarterly or when you notice issues. Enable automatic checks but keep control over install timing.

• Schools/SMBs: Quarterly review; test updates on 1–2 devices before broader rollout.

• Enterprises: Follow change-management cadence (e.g., twice a year). Pilot first, then staged deployment via WJA.

13) Post-Update Validation Checklist

After the update, verify that everyday tasks still work:

• Print a configuration page—confirm the new firmware version and IP/network settings.

• Test print from Windows/macOS and from mobile (AirPrint/Mopria/HP Smart).

• If you scan/fax: test scan-to-email, scan-to-network folder, fax send/receive (where applicable).

• Check security settings (admin password, SSL certs, IPsec/802.1X for enterprise).

• Confirm paper handling and finishing options (duplexers, staplers) still register.

14) Step-by-Step Quick Guides (By Scenario)

14.1 Home Inkjet (HP ENVY/DeskJet/OfficeJet) via HP Smart

1. Connect printer and phone/computer to same Wi-Fi.

2. Open HP Smart → select printer → Printer Settings.

3. Tap Advanced Settings → Printer Updates.

4. Follow prompts; keep devices awake until done.

5. Print a test page.

14.2 Small Office LaserJet Pro via EWS

1. Print Network Config to get the IP.

2. Browser → http://<printer-ip> → login (admin).

3. System/Tools → Firmware Update → Check or Upload file.

4. Start update → wait for reboot → verify on Config page.

14.3 Enterprise FutureSmart via USB

1. Download the .bdl bundle for your exact model.

2. Copy to USB (FAT32).

3. Admin menu → Device Maintenance → USB Firmware Upgrade.

4. Select file → confirm → wait for success prompt.

5. Validate features and security profiles.

14.4 Windows-Only Office Using HP Firmware Utility

1. Download Firmware Update Utility for your model.

2. Connect via Ethernet/USB.

3. Run tool → select printer → Update.

4. Don’t power off; wait for “Complete.”

5. Print a Configuration Page.

15) FAQs

Q1: Will a firmware update erase my settings?
Usually no. Settings are retained. However, major updates can reset certain network or security options. For complex configurations, back up settings or note them.

Q2: Can I update over Wi-Fi, or should I use Ethernet/USB?
Wi-Fi works for most home printers via HP Smart. For mission-critical or enterprise devices, Ethernet or USB is safer to avoid interruptions.

Q3: Do I have to update if my printer is working fine?
It’s recommended for security and compatibility. If you’re in a highly stable environment and rely on specific workflows, test updates on one device first.

Q4: I use third-party cartridges. Will updates block them?
Some updates adjust cartridge authentication. If you rely on non-HP supplies, review release notes and test carefully before updating your entire fleet.

Q5: My update failed and the printer won’t boot. What now?
Power cycle first. If still failing, try USB re-flash (FutureSmart) or contact HP Support—the device may need service or a recovery image.

Q6: How long does a firmware update take?
Typically 5–20 minutes, depending on model and method. Never power off during the process.

Q7: Is it safe to enable automatic updates?
For home and small offices, yes. For enterprises, use controlled, staged rollouts via Web Jetadmin.

Q8: Where do I find the latest firmware for my model?
On HP’s official support site for your exact model, or through HP Smart/EWS if the device supports direct retrieval.

Q9: After updating, my printer shows offline. Why?
Network stack may have reset. Reconfirm Wi-Fi/Ethernet settings, DHCP reservations, and printer ports on PCs. Restart printer and router.

Q10: Can firmware improve print quality?
Yes—on some models firmware includes calibration or color pipeline updates. It can also stabilize duplexing and finishing behavior.

16) Best Practices & Governance (For Admins and Power Users)

• Version control: Maintain a spreadsheet or CMDB with model, serial, old/new firmware versions, update date, and installer used.

• Pilot testing: Always validate on a subset of devices prior to broad deployment.

• Change windows: Schedule off-hours updates to avoid interrupting end-users.

• Network hygiene: Allow printer update traffic (HTTP/HTTPS, DNS, NTP). Time sync matters for TLS and logging.

• Certificates: For enterprise printers, renew device certs (and CA trust) regularly—some features require valid certificates after firmware changes.

• SNMP/Monitoring: Update monitoring tools if OIDs or traps change between firmware revisions.

• Documentation: Store release notes with your change ticket for future reference.

17) Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Updating on a flaky Wi-Fi signal. Use Ethernet or move closer to the router.

• Powering off mid-update. This risks corrupting firmware storage.

• Using the wrong file. Ensure the firmware package matches your exact model and sub-variant.

• Ignoring prompts. If the printer says “Do not power off,” don’t.

• Skipping validation. Always print a configuration page to confirm success.

• Overlooking drivers. Sometimes the fix is a driver update on the PC, not firmware—do both when in doubt.

18) Quick Reference: One-Page Update Plan

1. Identify model and current firmware version.

2. Pick method: HP Smart (home), EWS (most), Windows/macOS utility (either), USB (FutureSmart), or WJA (fleet).

3. Prepare: power/network stable, queues paused, admin rights ready.

4. Update: start the process and wait.

5. Verify: configuration page, test prints, scan/fax if applicable.

6. Document: version, date, any issues.

7. If issues: try EWS or USB re-flash, or contact HP support.

19) Conclusion

Updating your HP printer’s firmware is one of the highest-impact, lowest-cost maintenance tasks you can perform. It boosts reliability, fixes nagging bugs, enhances security, and keeps your printer compatible with evolving networks and operating systems. Whether you’re a home user pressing “Update” in HP Smart, a small office owner using the Embedded Web Server, or an IT admin orchestrating staged rollouts with Web Jetadmin, the steps are straightforward—and the benefits are immediate.

By following the preparation checklist, choosing the right update method for your environment, and validating post-update behavior, you’ll keep your HP printer running smoothly and securely for years to come.