How to Update HP Printer Firmware to Latest Version?

Keeping your HP printer firmware updated is essential for maintaining optimal performance, security, and compatibility with the latest devices and operating systems. Firmware updates often resolve common printer errors, improve printing quality, enhance wireless connectivity, and fix security vulnerabilities.

What Is HP Printer Firmware?

HP printer firmware is built-in software installed directly on the printer’s hardware. It controls how the printer communicates with your computer, mobile devices, and network. Unlike printer drivers installed on your PC, firmware resides inside the printer itself.

Regular firmware updates provide:

Improved print performance
Enhanced wireless stability
Bug fixes and error resolution
Security updates
Compatibility with new operating systems

If your HP printer is not working properly, showing error messages, or failing to connect to Wi-Fi, updating the firmware may resolve the issue.

Why Updating HP Printer Firmware Is Important

Updating the firmware ensures your printer runs efficiently and securely. Here are the main benefits:

Improved Performance

Firmware updates optimize printing speed, reduce paper jams, and improve overall output quality.

Security Enhancements

HP releases firmware updates to protect printers from security vulnerabilities and network threats.

Fixes Printer Not Working Issues

If your HP printer is offline, not responding, or showing error codes, a firmware update can fix system glitches.

Better Compatibility

Firmware updates ensure your printer works smoothly with the latest Windows, macOS, and mobile operating systems.

How to Check Current HP Printer Firmware Version

Before updating, it’s helpful to check the existing firmware version:

Turn on your HP printer.
Go to the printer control panel.
Open Settings or Setup.
Select Printer Information or Reports.
Locate the firmware version listed.

You can compare this version with the latest available update during the download process.

Method 1: Update HP Printer Firmware Using HP Smart App

The easiest way to update firmware is through the HP Smart App.

Steps to Update Using HP Smart:

Install and open the HP Smart application on your computer or mobile device.
Login to your HP account (create signup if you don’t have one).
Select your printer from the dashboard.
Navigate to Printer Settings.
Click Advanced Settings.
Select Tools or Web Services.
Click Printer Updates.
Choose Check for Updates.
If available, click Download and Install.

The printer will automatically install the firmware update. Do not turn off the printer during the update process.

Method 2: Update HP Printer Firmware via Official HP Support Website

If HP Smart does not show updates, you can manually download firmware from the official HP support page.

Steps to Download and Install Firmware:

Open your browser.
Search for your HP printer model firmware update.
Select your printer model.
Download the latest firmware file compatible with your operating system.
Open the downloaded file.
Follow on-screen installation instructions.
Select your connected printer.
Click Update.

Wait until the firmware update completes successfully.

Method 3: Update HP Printer Firmware Through Printer Control Panel

Some HP printers allow direct firmware updates via Wi-Fi.

Steps:

Connect the printer to a stable Wi-Fi network.
On the printer control panel, open Setup.
Select Printer Maintenance or Web Services.
Tap Update Printer.
Select Check Now.
Install available updates.

This method works best for newer HP wireless printer models.

HP Printer Login and Signup for Firmware Updates

To access firmware updates and customer support:

Create an HP account through HP Smart.
Login to manage printer settings.
Register your printer product.
Enable automatic firmware updates.

Having an HP account allows you to:

Track printer warranty
Access customer support
Receive update notifications
Manage multiple printers

Common HP Printer Firmware Update Issues and Fixes

Sometimes users face issues while updating firmware. Here are common problems and solutions:

HP Printer Not Working After Update

Restart the printer and computer.
Reconnect to Wi-Fi.
Reinstall printer drivers.
Perform a factory reset if required.

Firmware Update Failed

Ensure stable internet connection.
Disable firewall temporarily.
Run update as administrator.
Try updating using USB cable connection.

Printer Not Detected During Update

Check USB cable connection.
Restart router and printer.
Reinstall printer drivers.
Ensure correct printer model selection.

HP Printer Troubleshooting After Firmware Update

If your HP printer shows errors after updating:

Run built-in printer diagnostic tool.
Clean printheads.
Align printer cartridges.
Reset network settings.
Reinstall HP Smart app.

Firmware updates sometimes require system restart to apply changes properly.

HP Printer Customer Support and Service Options

If troubleshooting does not resolve your issue, contact HP customer support for assistance.

HP offers:

Online troubleshooting guides
Virtual chat support
Phone customer service
Remote assistance
Authorized service centers

Make sure you have your printer model number and serial number ready when contacting support.

Tips to Prevent Firmware Update Problems

Keep printer connected to power source.
Do not interrupt update process.
Use stable internet connection.
Enable automatic updates.
Regularly check for updates through HP Smart.

When Should You Update HP Printer Firmware?

Update firmware if:

Printer is not responding.
Wi-Fi connection keeps dropping.
Error codes appear frequently.
New operating system installed.
HP releases security patch updates.

Regular updates ensure smooth and secure printing operations.

Conclusion

Updating HP printer firmware to the latest version is essential for maintaining performance, security, and compatibility. Whether you update through HP Smart, the printer control panel, or manual download and install methods, keeping firmware current helps prevent printer not working issues and reduces troubleshooting efforts.