Need MFP 3301 FDW Firmware downgrade

[AflakDuc]

Couldn't print color when i first got it so I accidentally updated the firmware and now i cant use certain toners.  Just meant to do a fresh install and the rest took over.  Need the old firmware and cant seem to find it anywhere.  Help would be appreciated, Thanks!

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @AflakDuc,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

I understand how frustrating this is, especially when a firmware update changes how your printer works. Here’s the situation and what you can do:

HP Official Guidance

• You can download the latest firmware and drivers for your HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301fdw from HP’s official page:
  👉 HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301fdw | HP® Support
• HP does not host older firmware versions publicly. Downgrading is not recommended because it can make the printer inoperable and void the warranty.

What You Can Do Instead

1. Check Printer Settings
   • On the printer panel:
     Setup > Service > LaserJet Update > Manage Updates 
     • Set Allow Downgrade = Yes
     • Set Check Automatically = Off
     • Set Allow Updates = Yes
       (If these options exist on your model).
        
2. Use Genuine HP Toners
   • After firmware updates, only HP cartridges with original chips will work.
      
3. Prevent Future Auto-Updates
   • Disable automatic updates in the printer menu and the HP app.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!

Regards,

VikramTheGreat

[AflakDuc]

Going through the options there is a section where it says to turn on or off using only genuine HP toners and also toner protection.  Leaving this off can I install an aftermarket and have it work?  I have a mfp m283fdw that I had to put old firmware on to make the toners work.  Downgraded that and it works great.  Maybe the new mfp 3301fdw made it so I can turn it on or off in the options menu?  would they possibly make it... easy?  

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @AflakDuc,

I understand you’d like to know if it’s possible to downgrade the firmware or disable the genuine HP toner protection feature on your HP LaserJet MFP 3301fdw, and whether this would allow the use of non-HP or aftermarket toner cartridges.

We’d like to clarify that HP does not support firmware downgrades on any printer model, including the MFP 3301fdw. Firmware versions are designed to ensure the best performance, security, and reliability. Rolling back or installing unofficial firmware may cause the device to become non-functional and will void warranty coverage.

Regarding toner usage, HP printers are designed to work best with Original HP toner cartridges. While the settings you mentioned (such as “Toner Protection” or “Use Only Genuine HP Toner”) can be viewed in some printer models, disabling them does not guarantee compatibility with non-HP supplies. Many newer printers, including the MFP 3301fdw series, use updated authentication to prevent the use of incompatible or remanufactured cartridges.

If you are having issues with toner recognition or supply errors, let us know.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!

Regards,

VikramTheGreat