latest win11 HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3302fdw embedded web server says latest firmware is 6.17.5.34

[JerryK132]

Embedded web server says latest firmware is 6.17.5.34-202412122146 but online HP support says latest is (July) 6.17.5.40-202503181735. Obviously if HP are not sure which is the real latest version for my device, I'm nervous to install.

Weirdly, entering my printer serno gives an error, so I used the product code. Maybe the country model is different...  This part resolved - I originally entered a U instead of a V in the serno! Corrected and the actual device is now registered.

Any advice welcome regarding the two firmware versions being recommended.

[Max3Aj · Accepted solution]

@JerryK132, Hello and welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for posting your question. I'm here to help you get things back on track.

Here's a clear explanation and guidance for the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3302fdw firmware version confusion:

Firmware Version Clarification

Your Printer's Embedded Web Server (EWS) shows firmware version:
6.17.5.34-202412122146

HP Support Website lists the latest firmware as:
6.17.5.40-202503181735
→ Official HP Driver & Firmware Page

This discrepancy is common when the printer hasn't been manually updated recently or if automatic updates are disabled.

Firmware Comparison

Version 6.17.5.34 Enhancements & Fixes:

• Fixes for scan errors (AirPrint, custom size)
• Fixes for Windows spooler issues (false door open, out-of-paper)
• Security improvements

Version 6.17.5.40 (Latest):

While the full changelog for 6.17.5.40 isn't publicly listed yet, HP typically rolls forward all previous fixes and adds:

• Additional security patches
• Performance optimizations
• Compatibility improvements for newer OS updates (like Windows 11)

Recommended Action

Since 6.17.5.40 is officially listed as the latest, and it includes all prior fixes and enhancements, it's safe and advisable to update.

Steps to Update Firmware:

1. Visit the HP Support Page for your printer.
2. Scroll to Firmware section.
3. Download the latest firmware package (6.17.5.40).
4. Follow the included instructions to update via:
   • USB flash drive
   • HP Smart app
   • Embedded Web Server (EWS)

Additional Notes

• You resolved the serial number issue correctly, great job!
• Firmware updates are region-agnostic for this model, so country-specific differences shouldn't affect compatibility.

I hope the information shared has been useful and resolves your concern.

Wishing you a smooth and hassle-free experience ahead!

If this solution helped, please click “Accepted Solution” so others can benefit too. Don’t forget to hit the “Yes” button if you found this helpful!

Warm regards,

Max3Aj

HP Support

[JerryK132]

@Max3Aj Many thanks for the full and comprehensive reply!

As we are dealing with firmware flashing, can I just make absolutely sure of one point - apologies for not being quite clear.

Using EWS not only displayed the older installed version (6.17.5.34) but it ALSO indicated that this was the latest available for this machine, and that was AFTER I ran a firmware "check for update". Also the update firmware update setting is set to "Alert me when updates are available". I imagine the website version (6.17.5.40) is still the right one for me to install, but please would you just confirm this (or not!).

Many thanks again.

[Repairatrooper]

From a technicians view: It is very common for the library that the automatic updates acquires firmware revisions from are not completely current. In 99% of cases I have dealt with, the firmware listed on support.hp.com will be the most current revision. Not sure why it happens, but it happens. 

[JerryK132]

Many thanks @Max3Aj. I've updated the printer and all is well!

Thanks too to @REPAIRATROOPER for clarifying the last point.

J