-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
- HP Community
- Printers
- Printing Errors or Lights & Stuck Print Jobs
- Persistent 49 Service Error

Create an account on the HP Community to personalize your profile and ask a question
02-11-2023 03:48 PM
Color LaserJet Pro MFP M281cdw has a persistent "49 Service Error" apparently tied to the latest automatic firmware update. It was working one day and the next day it wouldn't do anything. Can't even get past the initialization. HP seems unconcerned as the printer isn't a current printer. Even HP Smart only recognizes it as "offline." Can't get it to be recognized via USB, Ethernet, or Wi-Fi even when I tell it to search both the IP addresses for either the ethernet or wi-fi addresses. Can't get it out of the persistent error even when nothing but the power cord is connected. Can't even use the printer as a copier. It is just an expensive paper weight.
02-14-2023 11:40 AM
Hi @Slomo470915,
Welcome to the HP Support Community.
I'd like to help!
The printer has experienced an internal embedded software error. Under most conditions, the printer automatically restarts.
Reset the printer:
Turn the printer off using the power switch, and then wait at least 30 seconds.
Turn the printer on and wait for it to initialize.
If you are using a surge protector:
Turn the printer off.
Remove the surge protector.
Plug the printer directly into the wall socket, and then turn the printer on.
If the error persists, turn the printer off and disconnect any network or USB cables.
Reconnect the cables and turn the printer on.
If the printer returns to Ready, print a Configuration Report and check the firmware version. Update the firmware if a newer version is available.
For more information, go to HP LaserJet Pro - Update the printer firmware.
Attempt to isolate the error to a specific connection type (wireless, USB, LAN), or file.
From the printer's control panel, disable wireless printing (if equipped).
Connect the printer to a computer with a USB cable and try printing a test file.
Connect the printer to the network (if available) and send the same test file.
If the error occurs with all connection types, contact customer support at www.hp.com/go/contactHP, or contact an HP-authorized service or support provider.
In cases where it is likely a specific file causing the error, try the following.
Try using a different print driver. For example, if you are using the universal print driver (UPD), try printing the file with the PCL 5 or PCL 6 driver. Visit HP Drivers & Downloads for print drivers.
Change the file format when saving. For example, save the file as a PDF or other file format before printing.
If the error occurs when scanning, try a different resolution or saving in a different file format.
If the error persists, contact customer support at www.hp.com/go/contactHP, or contact an HP-authorized service or support provider.
Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance.
Please click “Accepted 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!
Nal_NR-Moderator
I am an HP Employee