The most immediate reason to downgrade is to fix a printer that has been broken by a recent update. Countless users on HP's own support forums have reported critical issues after updating.
: Allows the use of significantly cheaper third-party alternatives to genuine HP ink.
Even with perfect steps, issues occur. Here is how to fix them.
If you successfully downgrade your firmware—or if your printer is currently working fine with third-party ink—you must take steps to keep it that way.
If the update stalls, restart both the computer and the printer, then try a different USB port. hp officejet pro 8620 firmware downgrade better
: Recent firmware versions actively block non-HP cartridges. Reverting to an older version allows the printer to recognize and use affordable, third-party, or remanufactured ink again. Cost Savings
Downgrading your HP OfficeJet Pro 8620 firmware makes your printer objectively better by restoring functionality, lowering operating costs, and eliminating frustrating cartridge errors. By rolling back the software and permanently blocking automatic updates, you regain complete ownership over your printing hardware. To help you find the exact files or steps, let me know:
That’s why many users (including me) have found that is a better solution. Here’s why.
Before attempting a risky manual rollback, consider HP's official "fix" for this specific model: Update the firmware on an HP printer | HP® Support The most immediate reason to downgrade is to
So, can downgrading your OfficeJet Pro 8620's firmware really solve the problems caused by a recent update? The answer is, it depends. If you're experiencing issues with your printer after a firmware update, a downgrade may be a viable solution. However, it's essential to approach this process with caution.
If your HP OfficeJet Pro 8620 has started misbehaving, rejecting your go-to ink cartridges, or throwing up cryptic error messages, you're likely at the end of your tether. The culprit may very well be a recent firmware update. For many users of this once-reliable workhorse, the answer to "Should I downgrade my firmware?" is a resounding "yes." Downgrading the firmware can genuinely be better for restoring lost functionality, cutting printing costs, and giving you back control over your own machine. This guide explores why a downgrade might be the right move for you and how to approach it safely.
Turn off automatic updates and disable HP Web Services entirely if you do not use ePrint. Risks and Troubleshooting
HP warns that non-genuine ink can lead to earlier printhead failure. Additionally, third-party firmware files carry a small risk of "bricking" the printer if the installation is interrupted. HP Support Community Downgrade Methods Even with perfect steps, issues occur
Because HP intentionally blocks standard downgrades through the official HP Smart app, users must bypass these restrictions manually. Step 1: Prep Your Connection
While downgrading is better for ink freedom, it is not without risks:
: Firmware updates can sometimes trigger false "damaged" or "problem" cartridge messages on perfectly functional third-party units. How to Downgrade (General Steps)
Forcing a firmware change carries a small risk of "bricking" the machine (making it permanently unresponsive) if the data transfer is interrupted or if the wrong file is used. How to Protect Your Printer Moving Forward
Many users have reported that later HP firmware updates inadvertently degraded the printer's Wi-Fi connectivity. Older firmware builds often provide a more stable network connection, ensuring your printer stays connected to your local network without requiring constant reboots. 4. Reduced Environmental Waste
Despite this, reports as recent as 2023 and 2025 continue to surface, with users being "blindsided" by updates that brick their working cartridges without notice. This history of anti-consumer behavior is what fuels the desire to downgrade.