No longer able to use HP LaserJet Pro P1606dn

[jasonhavens]

I have the same issues as those who posted in a prior thread (https://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/LaserJet-Printing/factory-reset-p1606dn/td-p/5741698), which was not "solved" as far as I am concerned. My LaserJet Pro 1606dn model has been working well for years. After its firmware was updated, it now refuses to obtain an IP address from my router, even if I manually assign the correct (reserved) IP address to the printer. I have tried the hard/factory reset multiple times, along with the suggestions in the prior thread above. This printer still works well, but apparently the only way that it now will function is via a USB connection.

I realize that HP must continue to update the settings of these printers, including for security purposes. It certainly is frustrating, though, to have a reliable printer effectively disabled by firmware and/or software updates. Please help if anyone has a good suggestion to resolve these issues. Incidentally, I tried to use HP's "Smart" app as well, which works with my newer HP printer and multifunction machines but not with this older laser printer. Thank you in advance.

[Kumar0307]

@jasonhavens, Welcome to the HP Support Community! I’m here to help.

I see that you are facing wireless issues with the printer. Due to the age of the printer, I'm afraid there will no longer be any updates available.

Follow the steps mentioned in this document to connect the printer to the network - Connecting an HP Printer Using Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS)

Print a configuration page to check the printer details and the IP address.

Refer to this document.

Alternatively, you may refer to - Changing from a USB to a Wireless Connection

Click here to download the HP Full-feature driver.

Once downloaded, make sure to run the file to start the installation and follow the on-screen instructions.

Hope this helps! Let me know how it goes. 

Please click “Accept as Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution.

Click on the YES button to reply that the response was helpful and/or to say “Thank You”.

Have a great day! 

[jasonhavens]

Please note that this model is NOT a wireless printer. It only functions as a hard-wired printer. Therefore, it obviously still should be connecting to my local network.

After I posted my problem to this HP community, I searched and discovered that there are scores of HP printers that now have these or closely related issues, i.e., refuses to accept DHCP assignment of IP address, continues to assign zeroes as manual IP address and will not function via automatic IP assignment by router (DHCP), etc. As I mentioned in my original post, I realize that HP must take precautions. Contrary to your response, HP is continuing to update the firmware for this and probably numerous other "aged" printers. As a result, that firmware should function properly at a basic level, especially where IP assignment is concerned. Otherwise, HP has rendered scores of networked printers almost useless, with the only option being USB connection --- not an acceptable solution, as I want to continue to use this printer to work from home and also for other family members to use via personal devices.

Thank you for the standard response, but it does not help me and presumably does not help most others with these types of issues. I suggest that you or someone escalate this because this is the kind of thing that alienates loyal customers. I look forward to a follow-up response. 

Kind regards,

Jason

Jason E. Havens | Holland & Knight

Partner | Chair, Nonprofit & Tax-Exempt Organizations Team

Regional Team Co-Leader, Private Wealth Services Group

Holland & Knight LLP

50 North Laura Street, Suite 3900 | Jacksonville, Florida 32202

Phone 904.798.5489 | Fax 904.358.1872

jason.havens@hklaw.com | www.hklaw.com

[Kumar0307]

@jasonhavens

I understand your concern. No new firmware update is available for this model printer from Nov 2020.

We can reset the printer to its factory settings and check if that helps.

1. Turn the product off.

2. Turn the product on, and while it is initializing press and hold both control-panel buttons at the same time until all the lights blink in unison.

Now, connect the ethernet cable to the printer and check the IP address.

To know how to print a configuration page, click here.

Let me know how it goes.