Firmware is the printer's built-in software, and updates fix bugs, add features and close security gaps. When an update fails, the printer may show an error and carry on with its old version, restart in a loop, or stop at a recovery screen. Most printers are designed to survive a failed update, and many can simply try again. This guide covers what to do in the first few minutes, how to retry safely through official channels only, and how recovery mode works if the printer won't start normally.
What you might be seeing
- The printer reports that the update failed
- The progress bar stalls for a long time
- The printer restarts repeatedly after an update
- The screen shows a recovery, download or update mode message
Common causes
- Dropped connection
- A Wi-Fi interruption, or a computer going to sleep during a USB update, cuts off the transfer.
- Power interruption
- Switching off, or a brief power cut, during installation leaves the update incomplete.
- Printer busy
- Print jobs or scans arriving mid-update can make it fail.
- Wrong or damaged file
- Firmware meant for another model, or from an unofficial source, is rejected or can cause harm.
- Clock or server problems
- A wrong date and time can block the secure download, and update servers are occasionally busy.
How to fix it, step by step
Work through these in order and test a print after each one. Most people are done within the first few steps.
Never install modified firmware or files from unofficial sources, and don't remove power while an update is actively installing.
Don't switch off too soon
If a progress bar or update message is still showing, leave the printer alone even if it seems stuck. Firmware installs can pause for long stretches while data is written to memory. Wait at least 30 minutes before deciding the update has truly stalled, and keep the printer plugged in without opening doors or pressing buttons in the meantime.
Restart and check the version
If the printer shows an error, or nothing has changed for well over 30 minutes, turn it off with the power button, or unplug it if the button doesn't respond. Wait a minute and switch it on. Many printers keep the previous firmware as a backup and start normally. Check the firmware version in the settings menu or on a printed configuration page to see whether the update applied.
Prepare a stable connection
Before retrying, make the connection as reliable as you can. Use an Ethernet cable if the printer has a port, or move it closer to the router. Confirm the printer's date and time are correct. Cancel pending print jobs, close scan software, and make sure nobody will use the printer during the update. Plug it into a wall outlet or surge protector rather than a shared strip.
Retry from the printer's built-in updater
Open the printer's settings menu and find an option such as firmware update, check for updates or printer update, or use the update section of the printer's built-in web page or the manufacturer's app. Start the update and leave the printer undisturbed until it restarts and returns to the home screen on its own. Never use firmware files from forums or third-party download sites.
Use the official computer-based tool
If the built-in updater keeps failing, download the firmware update utility for your exact model from the manufacturer's official website, and connect by USB if its instructions recommend that. Stop the computer from sleeping first: in Windows 11 use Settings › System › Power & battery, and on a Mac adjust the sleep options under Battery or Energy in System Settings. Keep a laptop plugged in and follow the utility exactly.
Work with recovery mode
A printer that can't start normally may show a recovery, download or update mode screen, or a specific light pattern, while it waits for firmware from a computer. This is a safety feature, not a dead printer. Look up the recovery procedure for your model on the manufacturer's official support pages; it usually involves a USB connection and the official update utility. Follow it exactly without interrupting power.
Check everything after a successful update
Once the update completes, print a configuration page to confirm the new version. Check that Wi-Fi, scan destinations and default settings survived, since some updates reset options. Print and scan a test page. If a computer can no longer find the printer, remove it from Printers & scanners and add it again so the driver picks up any changes.
How to keep it from happening again
- Update over a stable connection, ideally wired
- Keep the printer idle and on a reliable outlet during updates
- Schedule updates for a quiet time when nobody needs the printer
- Note the firmware version before you start
Common questions
Can a failed update permanently break a printer?
It's uncommon, because most printers keep a recovery mode or a backup copy of the old firmware. If an update fails completely and recovery can't restore it, the main board may need reprogramming or replacement through the manufacturer's service. Taking the precautions above before retrying makes that outcome much less likely.
Should I install firmware updates at all?
Generally, yes. Updates fix bugs and security holes and keep the printer compatible with newer operating systems and network standards. Read the release notes on the manufacturer's official website first so you know what will change, and start updates only when you can leave the printer alone until they finish.
Can I go back to the previous firmware?
Usually not. Most printers block older firmware once an update completes. If a new version causes problems, check the manufacturer's official support pages for a newer release that fixes it, and keep a note of the problem's details in case you need warranty service later.
This guide is general information written for common home and office printers. Menus and button names vary between models, so check your printer’s manual where a step differs. Printer Problems Solved is independent and not affiliated with any printer manufacturer. See our disclaimer.