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HP Recommended
HP Color Laser MFP 179fnw
iOS

I would like to update the firmware on my HP Color Laser Printer MFP 179fnw because there is a print issue. During a run of printing via wireless network from a Mac or iOS device the printer prints (and burns through ink and paper) pages of random symbols during the print run. All posts I have read suggest updating the firmware for this printer. Using the HP Smart app on iOS and the Mac there is no option to do this. On the printer it'self it's the same. Having read other posts it would appear the option to update firmware is missing. How the hell do I get this expensive machine to STOP burning through my supplies and print properly? HP Support (via phone) have so far shied away from my constant question of, "how do I update the firmware"? Anyone here help? Many thanks.

4 REPLIES 4
HP Recommended

Hi @buss69,

 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

 

I understand your frustration with the print issue on your HP Color Laser Printer MFP 179fnw. Firmware updates can indeed address such issues. If the HP Smart app and the printer itself do not provide an option to update the firmware, you may need to use a computer and access the printer through a web browser to perform the update. Here are the general steps you can follow:

 

Find the Printer's IP Address:

  • Print a configuration page from your printer to obtain its IP address. This information is usually available in the printer's settings or configuration menu.

Access the Printer's Embedded Web Server (EWS):

  • Open a web browser on your computer.
  • Enter the printer's IP address in the address bar and press Enter.

Log in to the EWS:

  • You might need to enter a username and password. The default credentials are often available in the printer's manual or on the printer itself.

Navigate to the Firmware Update Section:

  • Look for a section related to firmware or software updates within the printer's web interface.

Check for Updates and Apply:

  • Some printers have an option to check for updates directly. If not, you may need to download the latest firmware from the official HP website and upload it through the web interface.

Follow On-Screen Instructions:

  • If the update process starts, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the firmware update.

 

Remember to proceed with caution and ensure that your printer remains connected to a stable power source during the firmware update to avoid any potential issues.

 

I hope this helps.

 

Take care and have a good day.

 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

 

Alden4

HP Support 

I am an HP Employee.
HP Recommended

Hi Alden4,

I've tried your method (and a few others) and every time I do it brings me back to the page that asks me to install the HP Smart app. I have already downloaded this app and tried it on 5 devices (3 iPhones, a Mac book Pro  and a Mac Pro). I have downloaded the HP Smart app on each one and in EVERY case there is NO option in the HP Smart app to update the firmware. I have obviously tried your option to do it via the printer EWS and I get the same result. I would suggest the HP Smart app is considerably less than smart.

I am really tired of printing pages and pages of symbols in print runs. It is both costly in time and money and so far the printer has gone through one £50 black cartridge at my expense and I'm at a loss now. Everything I have read to counter this error says, update the printer firmware... and so the loop continues. Please advise.

HP Recommended

Hi @buss69,

 

Thank you for your response, 

 

Due to limited support, I would request you contact our HP Support and our Support Engineers should be able to sort this out. HP Support can be reached by clicking on the following link.

 

https://www.hp.com/contacthp/

 

Please feel free to contact us here anytime you need any further assistance.

 

Have a great day!

 

Alden4

HP Support 

I am an HP Employee.
HP Recommended

Hi, 

 

HP Color Laser MFP 178nw, 178nwg, 179fnw, 179fwg Firmware File

 

JessikaV
HP Support Community Administrator

I work on behalf of HP
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