"79 service error" due to DHCP

[Tim_1]

Hi, I bought a LaserJet M254dw. After installing it in my network I got a "79 service error", which keeps restarting the printer. HP support told me that this was a typical case of DOA. So I bought another M254dw, which after installing it in my network also gave the same error!!!

Meanwhile, having 2 printers to test, and having done the installation often enough to see all the involved steps, I have found the cause and solution!

I like to use static IP adresses in my network. HP delivers this printer with DHCP on. So as soon as I set a static IP address in my router, the "79 service error" will start (after turning the printer off/on once). The solution is to set the IPv4 config method (in Network installation menu) from "DHCP" to "automatic" .

Too bad this error is so obscure that even HP doens't know what to do with it. The whole procedure took several hours, calls, and return cost. I hope this bug will be solved in a future firmware update. Maybe I can get some compensation for my debugging of this obviously new product....

[John_Getzke]

Neat, thanks for sharing!

I believe you are correct.  Something like this would have to get fixed with a firmware update. 

Still, its strange the printer is reacting this way in the first place.  DHCP should fail on any network connection that is configured or restricted to a static IP.  This normally results in a 0.0.0.0 IP address istead of a service error.  Its also a little strange that you are configuring the static IP address on the network side instead of directly on the printer.  Whenever I configure static IPs I always switch IPv4 to Manual from Automatic or DHCP.  Then I type in the new IP and the printer works as expected.  Then again our network environments are likely different and not a fair comparison.  Perhaps you have DHCP completly disabled on your network which is breaking the default functionality of the printer.

I'll give this thread a nod to the Expert Circle and see if we can get it any additional attention from HP.  If so they may have some follow up questions for you.

[Tim_1]

It is possible for the printer to get its IP by DHCP in my network, which it did before I coupled a static IP to its MAC-addresses. As soon as I did, I got the 79 service error

[John_Getzke]

Thats kind of what I assumed was happening.  Its a feature similar to DHCP (meaning an automatic IP is provided, or the client doesnt need to have a static preconfigur) except there is only one option to pull from the network instead of a range of possible IPs.

Can you confirm the specific network device and the feature name to control this feature in your scenario?  That would be valuable info for HP reproduce the problem.  If so then HP can work with that manufacturer to determine if the fix should be on the HP or network vendors side.  Maybe we can take a quick read through the user guide for more info and limitations on that feature too.

[Tim_1]

Hi,

It's a Linksys Router WRT54GL, with Tomato 1.27 firmware.