Since official channels provide no real solution, the community has stepped up. The most well-known alternative method is a called “OfficejetPro86xx-Downgrade.” Created in response to HP’s controversial September 2016 firmware update — a release that abruptly blocked remanufactured cartridges without warning — this script was designed to upload “timebomb-less” firmware to affected printers.
A1: No. HP representatives have stated directly that downgrading the firmware on the HP OfficeJet Pro 8620 is not possible through official channels. Support will instead recommend using genuine HP cartridges and performing basic troubleshooting steps.
Connect both your computer (especially if it is a laptop) and the printer to a reliable power source. Avoid areas prone to rolling blackouts.
On the printer’s control panel, swipe down the top status bar and tap the . Scroll down and select Printer Maintenance . Tap Update the Printer . Select Printer Update Options and choose Do Not Check .
Older firmware lacks the latest network security updates patched by HP in recent months. Essential Pre-Downgrade Checklist hp officejet pro 8620 firmware downgrade
| Error Message | Cause | Solution | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | "Firmware downgrade not allowed" | HP locked the bootloader in newer versions | Force Recovery Mode (Step 3 above) or try an older intermediate firmware first (e.g., FDP1CN2083AR) | | "CRC Check Failed" | Corrupted firmware file | Re-download the file from a different source | | "Communication Timeout" | USB cable issue or printer sleep mode | Disable sleep mode. Use a shorter USB cable. Restart both devices | | Printer is stuck at 0% | Power-saving feature interrupted | Hard reset: unplug printer for 60 seconds, restart PC, try again |
The HP Officejet Pro 8620 is a popular all-in-one printer designed for small businesses and home offices. Like any other printer, it requires periodic firmware updates to ensure optimal performance, security, and compatibility with various devices. However, sometimes a firmware update can cause issues, such as compatibility problems, printing errors, or even render the printer unusable. In such cases, downgrading the firmware to a previous version may be the only solution. In this article, we will explore the process of downgrading the HP Officejet Pro 8620 firmware, the reasons why you might need to do it, and the precautions to take.
: You will need an older version of the firmware (e.g., version FDP1CN1416AR
Follow these steps precisely. The entire process takes about 10–15 minutes. Since official channels provide no real solution, the
HP does not provide older firmware versions on their official HP Support website . You will need to find a trusted third-party site or use a saved backup from a previous installation.
If you do not disable internet updates immediately after a downgrade, your printer will automatically download the latest restrictive firmware again within days. Method A: Disable via the Printer Touchscreen
Follow these chronological steps carefully to successfully downgrade your printer software. Step 1: Prepare Your Computer and Printer Turn on your HP OfficeJet Pro 8620.
A4: Installing unofficial firmware or performing unsupported downgrades almost certainly voids any remaining warranty. HP representatives have stated directly that downgrading the
A compromised printer can be used to exfiltrate data, launch Denial of Service (DoS) attacks, or serve as a "watchdog" on the network traffic passing through it. In a corporate environment, using a downgraded printer violates standard patch management policies and compliance frameworks (such as ISO 27001 or NIST guidelines).
In some instances, firmware updates caused "Cartridge Locked" errors where the printer permanently refused to recognize cartridges that were installed before the update. Downgrading became a troubleshooting step for technicians attempting to unlock the hardware from this software-level bricking.
Disconnect any Ethernet or Wi-Fi connections on the printer control panel.
: Ensure the printer is in a "Ready" state. If it is stuck on a cartridge error, you may need to temporarily install at least one genuine HP cartridge to access the menus. Firmware File