I can't update network settings because my screen is stuck on an update

[rafarmer13]

The screen is stuck on an update, so I can't update the network to my new wifi network. I tried plugging the printer into the router with an Ethernet cable, but because the screen is still stuck on an update loading screen, I can't access settings. I have tried all the steps above and the screen is still trying to update with a wifi network that doesn't exist anymore

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @rafarmer13,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

I can imagine how frustrating it must feel to be stuck on an update screen when all you want is to reconnect your printer to your new Wi-Fi. You're not alone. This issue can feel like your printer is frozen in time, waiting for a network that no longer exists. Let's gently guide it back to life.

Here's What You Can Do to Fix Your HP OfficeJet Pro 8138e Stuck on Update Screen

Step 1: Perform a Power Reset

This helps clear temporary glitches:

1. Turn off the printer by pressing the power button. 
   • If it doesn’t respond, unplug the power cord from the back of the printer and the wall.
2. Wait 60 seconds.
3. Plug it back in directly to a wall outlet (not a surge protector).
4. Turn the printer back on.

Step 2: Try a Firmware Recovery

If the screen is still stuck:

• Press and hold the Power button + Cancel + Wireless buttons together for 10–15 seconds.
• This may trigger a firmware recovery mode and allow the printer to bypass the stuck update.

Step 3: Use the HP App to Reconnect

If the screen becomes responsive:

1. Download the HP App – For HP Printers, Laptops, and Tech Accessories | HP® Official Site.
2. Open the app and add your printer.
3. Follow the guided steps to connect to your new Wi-Fi.

Step 4: Restore Network Settings (if screen becomes usable)

• Go to Settings > Network Setup > Restore Network Settings.
• This will clear the old Wi-Fi and allow you to set up the new one.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

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Regards,

VikramTheGreat

[rafarmer13]

Hi There - I appreciate all the effort you’ve put into listing these solutions out! However, I don’t think any of these will work for me. I have tried the power down option several times, which only results in the update starting over and getting stuck in the same spot. The firmware update won’t work because my printer doesn’t have all the buttons mentioned, it only has the one power button. Using the HP app doesn’t seem to help either, because the printer appears “offline” in the available devices menu.

Let me know if you have any other ideas, I’m all ears!!

[VikramTheGreat · Accepted solution]

Hi @rafarmer13,

Thank you for getting back and letting me know that you still have trouble.

To get you further assistance, we need to take this conversation to a private chat. We're inviting you to a private message to protect your privacy and ensure that any sensitive information remains confidential. 

To access your private message, just click the little blue envelope icon on the upper right corner of your HP Community profile, next to your profile name.  

We're looking forward to helping you resolve this issue! 

Stay tuned, and thanks for your patience! 

VikramTheGreat

HP Support