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I have an HP OfficeJet Pro 8138e printer that is currently stuck in a firmware update/restart loop.

The issue started after I tried to scan documents to my laptop. The printer prompted me to install HP scanning software so I could scan directly to my computer. I downloaded HP Smart and HP Scan Assistant / HP scanning software on my laptop. After installing the software, I tried to adjust the printer/scanner settings because it was not printing or scanning the way I wanted.

Not long after that, the printer started attempting to download a firmware update. The update fails every time, then the printer restarts itself and automatically tries to download the firmware again. It is now stuck repeating this cycle.

Current symptoms:

  • Printer attempts to download firmware.
  • Firmware update fails.
  • Printer restarts by itself.
  • After restarting, it immediately tries to download the firmware again.
  • The touchscreen/menu becomes unresponsive or freezes.
  • I cannot reliably navigate the printer settings because it restarts before I can make changes.
  • The issue continues even after basic restart/power-cycle attempts.

Troubleshooting steps already attempted:

  • Downloaded and used HP Smart.
  • Downloaded HP Scan Assistant / HP scanning software.
  • Tried to stop or disable automatic firmware updates.
  • Downloaded and tried a universal driver/update installer.
  • Attempted basic restart and power-cycle troubleshooting.
  • Tried navigating the printer menus, but the printer freezes or restarts before changes can be completed.

I would like the printer checked for a failed firmware update, corrupted firmware, network/update loop issue, driver/software conflict, or any related software/firmware problem. If possible, please attempt firmware recovery, factory reset, or reinstallation of the correct firmware.

† The opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the authors, not of HP. By using this site, you accept the <a href="https://www8.hp.com/us/en/terms-of-use.html" class="udrlinesmall">Terms of Use</a> and <a href="/t5/custom/page/page-id/hp.rulespage" class="udrlinesmall"> Rules of Participation</a>.