This isn't a new practice. In September 2016, reports began circulating that an HP firmware update prevented the use of third-party cartridges for many OfficeJet Pro models, including the 8610, 8620, and 8630. This tactic has been repeated over the years, most notably in 2023, when another update bricked non-HP cartridges and left many printers unusable.
Before attempting a risky manual rollback, consider HP's official "fix" for this specific model: Update the firmware on an HP printer | HP® Support
This is a community-sourced workaround, not an official HP solution. But when the official path keeps breaking your printer, sometimes the older road is the better one.
Ensure the printer is on and connected directly to your computer via USB. hp officejet pro 8620 firmware downgrade better
Downgrading the HP OfficeJet Pro 8620’s firmware to version 1718A is a powerful but imperfect act of resistance. It successfully restores the printer’s ability to use affordable, third-party ink, saving users hundreds of dollars annually. It returns control from the manufacturer’s cloud to the owner’s desktop. Yet, it is a technically risky procedure that HP actively tries to prevent, and it becomes impossible once a printer crosses an internal update threshold.
Instead of a risky firmware downgrade—which can "brick" the device—you can often achieve better results by adjusting current settings: Update the firmware on an HP printer | HP® Support
Connect your printer directly to your computer using a USB cable. Disable the "Automatically Update Check" function in your printer settings to prevent it from automatically updating again. Step 2: Running the Downgrade This isn't a new practice
The HP Support Community explicitly states that HP does not officially support or provide files for rolling back printer firmware.
Why Downgrading HP OfficeJet Pro 8620 Firmware is the Best Fix for "Supply" Errors HP OfficeJet Pro 8620 Go to product viewer dialog for this item.
Downgrading the firmware is highly recommended to restore full compatibility with third-party, third-party, and refilled ink cartridges . When HP rolled out mandatory firmware updates (such as version FDP1CN2022AR ), they triggered embedded HP Dynamic Security protocols. This automated system locks out third-party chips, causing sudden "Supply Problem" or "Cartridge Altered" errors on previously perfect printers. Before attempting a risky manual rollback, consider HP's
Rolling back removes newer security patches designed to defend your network against niche network vulnerabilities. How to Prepare for a Downgrade
Many users find that their OfficeJet Pro 8620 works significantly better on older firmware versions. The primary drivers for downgrading usually fall into three categories:
The most immediate benefit of a firmware rollback is financial. Genuine HP 950 and 951 ink cartridges are expensive. Third-party alternatives often cost 50% to 70% less. Downgrading restores your freedom to choose your own ink supplier, drastically lowering your total cost of ownership. 2. Elimination of Fake Error Messages
If you have decided that the financial benefits outweigh the risks, follow these steps to roll back your printer's firmware. Step 1: Prep the Printer Settings