Error GOWS001 while connecting to InstantInk

[Asdf748]

I get the error GOWS001 when I try to connect to the  InstantInk.

The Printer is behind a FritzBox and open to use independent port forwarding.

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @CN473C30DC 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Thanks for laying out the details so clearly—this helps a lot. The GOWS001 error when trying to connect your HP Officejet Pro 8615 to Instant Ink typically indicates a network communication failure between the printer and HP’s Instant Ink servers. 

Since your setup involves a FritzBox router with custom port forwarding, that’s likely where the issue lies.

Let’s walk through a structured recovery path:

 

Step-by-Step Fix for GOWS001 Error

1. Check DNS and Firewall Settings on FritzBox

• Ensure your FritzBox is allowing outbound HTTPS traffic on port 443
• Set DNS to automatic or use Google DNS (8.8.8.8 / 8.8.4.4) for reliability
• Disable any packet filtering, parental controls, or firewall rules that might block HP servers

2. Disable Port Forwarding for the Printer

HP Instant Ink does not require inbound port forwarding. In fact, it can interfere with secure server communication:

• Remove any manual port forwarding rules for the printer’s IP
• Ensure the printer is set to DHCP (not static IP) unless required for other services

3. Update Printer Firmware

Outdated firmware can block Instant Ink registration:

• Visit the HP Officejet Pro 8615 Firmware Page
• Download and install the latest firmware
• Restart the printer and retry Instant Ink connection

4. Reset Web Services

• On the printer’s control panel → Tap Setup → Web Services → Remove Web Services
• Then tap Enable Web Services again
• This forces the printer to re-register with HP’s servers

5. Connect via Mobile Hotspot (Test)

To rule out router-level blocks:

• Temporarily connect the printer to a mobile hotspot
• Try registering Instant Ink again
• If it works, the issue is definitely with FritzBox’s outbound filtering

“GOWS001 error when connecting Officejet Pro 8615 to Instant Ink. Printer is behind FritzBox with custom port forwarding. DNS and firewall settings reviewed.”

You’re clearly tech-savvy—let’s make sure your printer gets the connection it deserves.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye