Problems after installing firmware Datacode 20201021

[Jeff-HJ]

After installing firmware update 20201021 on my MFP M281cdw, it now constantly restarts. It will not stay on long enough for me to run a diagnostic before it recycles with a "79 Service Error." Any suggestions??

[Kumar0307]

@Jeff-HJ, Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Perform the steps mentioned in this document to resolve the 79 service error - 79 Errors

If the issue started only after updating the printer firmware, you may have to downgrade it. This needs some additional technical assistance that can be better provided through one-on-one interaction or a remote session with our HP Support team.

Please reach out to the HP Technical Support team in your region for further assistance. 

Keep me posted for any other assistance.

Please click “Accept as 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!

Have a great day! 

[niksdopey]

I have this to.. I tried USB and eventually that stopped working too... how do you downgrade the firmware?

[Kumar0307]

@niksdopey

You will have to contact the HP Support team as mentioned in my previous post in order to check if the downgrade is possible. 

Keep me posted for any other assistance.

[Btoadly]

Update:  HP keeps taking the link to the old firmware off this site.  Go outside this community and google the problem.  Look for the Reddit solution.  One hint that took me awhile to figure out.  I had downloaded the old driver but still had to execute the program to get it to load. 

The downgrade darn well BETTER be possible because HP caused this problem, not the users.  This was purchased as a network printer and if the only way it can be used is hardwired, which is currently the situation, that is HP's fault.

[Btoadly]

HP is refusing to help because my printer is a few months past the warranty date.  This is unethical, because you updated the firmware and caused the problem. I am tech savvy enough to follow the instructions on how to downgrade the firmware, if you provide the instructions.

[BadUpdate]

Same issue AFTER HP automatic firmware update (directly through printer)... Color LaserJet Pro MFP M281 goes into continuous cycle of "Supply Problem", a few seconds later I get "79 Service Error", followed a continuous cycle of shutting down, rebooting with the same lame messages.  Already tried the "pull the power cord while printer is on" and restarting.   CANNOT seem to obtain any tech support from HP.   Also cannot seem to obtain the previous firmware from HP's website.  Virtual Agent is virtually worthless.  Question: Where is the previous firmware and can it be upload via an USB thumb drive?

[BadUpdate]

I do see on the control panel of my printer that has an option to allow downgrade.  Unfortunately, HP website does not have the previous firmware on their site nor can I seem to 'chat' or 'call' a human being.  As mentioned before, the "Virtual Agent" is virtually worthless.... seems to be no support from HP, especially since it was THEIR firmware update that crater our printer!

[Btoadly]

Yes, we need that previous firmware and it isn't anywhere to be found.

[BadUpdate]

That is great!  All I can express is GOOD LUCK GETTING IN TOUCH WITH ANYONE AT HP!  They have no chat with a real person.  "Virtual Agent" is virtually worthless unless you need instructions on how to plug your printer into the wall.  There does not appear to be any way to 'chat' with a person.  If you call 800.494.6836, the automated will ultimately redirect you back to the "Virtually Useless Agent".  Go online, tells me my Color LaserJet Pro MFP M281dw printer is no longer under warranty... WOULDN'T NEED SERVICE IF HP didn't automatically download and install a defective firmware update (directly through printer).  Tried the "unplug while printer is on" which was worthless suggestion.

Anyone up for a class action lawsuit if HP is unable to fix the damage done????