Downgrading the HP OfficeJet Pro 8620 firmware is a common method to bypass "Dynamic Security" locks that prevent the use of third-party ink cartridges. Because HP often removes older firmware from its official site, you will typically need to source the downgrade file from community archives or third-party providers. HP Support Community Step 1: Disable Automatic Updates
Before starting, you must stop the printer from immediately re-updating once the downgrade is complete. On the Printer Panel (gear icon) > Printer Maintenance Update the Printer Printer Update Options : "Do Not Check" or "Off".
: When asked "Do you want to turn on Printer Updates?", select Via Web Browser : Enter your printer's IP address
into a browser to access the Embedded Web Server (EWS). Go to Printer Updates and disable them there.
Downgrading the HP OfficeJet Pro 8620 Go to product viewer dialog for this item.
firmware is a common method for bypassing "Dynamic Security" or "Non-HP Chip Detected" errors that block third-party ink cartridges. Quick Summary
Current Status (April 2026): HP does not officially support downgrading. Newer firmware (like FDP1CN2022AR ) is often locked to prevent reverting.
Primary Risk: Interrupting a firmware flash can permanently "brick" (disable) the printer. Prerequisite: You must find an older version (e.g., version or
) from a third-party source or backup, as HP has removed these from their official support pages. 🛠️ Step-by-Step Downgrade Process
If you have an older firmware file (typically a .exe for Windows or a .ful / .rfu file), follow these steps:
Prepare the Connection: Connect your printer to your computer via a USB cable for stability; avoid Wi-Fi for firmware tasks. Enable "Allow Downgrade": hp officejet pro 8620 firmware downgrade new
On the printer screen, go to Settings > Printer Maintenance > Update Printer. Select Manage Updates and set Allow Downgrade to Yes. Run the Older Firmware:
Windows: Double-click the downloaded firmware .exe and select your printer from the dropdown menu. Click Update.
Mac/Terminal: If you have an .rfu file, you can send it via Terminal using the command: nc -w 100 [Printer_IP] 9100 < firmware_file.rfu.
Wait for the Reboot: The printer screen may turn green or display a progress bar. Do not turn it off. It will print a status report once complete. 🔒 Disabling Future Updates
To prevent the printer from automatically re-installing the problematic firmware:
On the Printer: Go to Settings > Printer Maintenance > Update Printer > Printer Update Options and select Do Not Check.
On your PC: When installing HP software, choose Customize and uncheck HP Update.
HP OfficeJet 8620 previous firmware update... - HP Community
Most practical advice: If you need cheap ink, sell your updated 8620 and buy an older printer (e.g., Brother) that never uses dynamic security.
The HP Officejet Pro 8620 is a powerhouse printer, but many users have found themselves locked out of using affordable third-party ink cartridges due to "Dynamic Security" features included in recent firmware updates. If your printer suddenly rejects non-HP cartridges with a "Supply Problem" or "Cartridge Error," a firmware downgrade is often the only solution. Downgrading the HP OfficeJet Pro 8620 firmware is
This guide provides the most current methods to downgrade your HP Officejet Pro 8620 firmware to restore compatibility with third-party ink. Why Downgrade Your HP 8620 Firmware?
HP regularly pushes firmware updates to "improve performance," but these updates often include code designed to recognize and block non-HP chips. By downgrading to an older version (typically versions from 2014 or 2015), you bypass these restrictions.
Cost Savings: Use remanufactured or compatible cartridges at a fraction of the cost.
Reduced Waste: Keep perfectly good cartridges out of landfills.
Printer Autonomy: Take back control over what supplies you put in your hardware. Prerequisites Before You Begin
Before attempting a downgrade, ensure you have the following ready:
A USB Cable: Do not attempt a firmware downgrade over Wi-Fi; a dropped signal can "brick" (permanently disable) your printer.
The Correct Firmware File: You specifically need the HP Officejet Pro 8620 N911n firmware, usually version FDP1CN1416AR or earlier.
Windows or Mac PC: Most downgrade tools are executable (.exe) or disk image (.dmg) files. Step-by-Step Downgrade Process 1. Disable Automatic Updates
Before downgrading, prevent the printer from immediately re-updating itself. On the printer control panel, swipe down the dashboard. Go to Setup (Gear Icon) > Printer Maintenance. Select Update the Printer > Printer Update Options. Select Do Not Check. 2. Enter "Refurbish" or "MFG" Mode Verdict
Some newer firmware versions block standard downgrades. You may need to put the printer into a special state: Turn the printer off.
While holding the Power button, press the Back (curved arrow) button 4 times. The printer should boot into a "Support Menu."
Navigate to Enable/Disable Menu and ensure "Firmware Update" is enabled.
Before attempting the downgrade, understand the risks:
| Risk | Consequence | |------|--------------| | Bricking | If power is lost during the 12-minute flash, the printer becomes a paperweight. | | Voided Warranty | HP will refuse support. (But the 8620 is out of warranty for most users anyway.) | | Security Vulnerabilities | Older firmware lacks patched exploits. Do not connect the printer directly to the internet after downgrade. | | HP Apps Failure | HP Smart and ePrint will break. You must print via USB or LAN only. |
If you accept the risks, proceed.
Perform a Hard Reset:
Visual: Screen recording showing USB preparation.
Host: "HP just killed your cheap cartridges, but here is the new exploit. Forget the menu—it’s locked. Look at the bootloader. If you hold
# + 3while plugging in, you get a raw recovery mode that HP forgot to disable. This bypasses the web server security completely."
Yes. The process is identical for the standard 8620 and the 8620 e-AiO.
In the US, HP’s Dynamic Security has faced class-action lawsuits. While not illegal per se, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protects your right to use third-party parts. The downgrade is a technical workaround, not a hack.
