HP LaserJet Pro MFP 4101fdn reboots each time phone rings

[DougB88]

I have noticed that when the fax phone line rings, my HP LaserJet Pro MFP 4101fdn will reboot, then once back up and running, will answer the call and receive the fax.  Firmware is updated to latest, Firmware Version LOCHSAXXXN002.2527B.00
Built Date 2025-07-05.  Not sure where to go from here.  Thanks for any help.

[IamRCJ]

I have pretty much the exact same issue. Same model running the current and same firmware as you are. The fax line rings once or twice and then the unit reboots. Only difference with ours is when it comes back up and the line rings again, it will reboot again.  Printer becomes unusable for users when trying to print or scan because once the line rings, it reboots.

We ended up unplugging the phone cable and had the phone company forward our faxes to another machine while we troubleshoot this. My guess is it has something to do with the current firmware. We had the machine set to automatically update the firmware. I'll be disabling that on our other machines now. I don't see a way to downgrade the firmware which is what I would try first.

Anybody from HP reading these posts?

[zeuscho]

I have exact the same issues with my MPF 3102fdw using 2025-07-05 version of the firmware. Anyway to rollback the firmware or firmware update?

[Hawks_Eye · Accepted solution]

Hi @zeuscho 

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

Thanks for explaining the issue so clearly. It’s genuinely disruptive when your HP MFP 3102fdw reboots every time a fax call comes in—especially when you're relying on it for consistent communication. 

Based on the firmware version you’re using (2025-07-05), this behavior may stem from a low-level fault in how the device handles incoming fax signals.

While there’s no supported option to roll back firmware on HP LaserJet devices, there are steps you can take to stabilize fax performance and prevent reboots.

 

Step-by-Step Recovery

1. Check Fax Activity Log

• On the printer control panel:
  • Go to Menu > Tools > Reports > Fax Reports > Fax Activity Log
  • Print the log and look for any error codes or patterns tied to the reboot events

This can help isolate whether the issue is triggered by specific numbers, signal types, or timing.

 

2. Reset Fax Settings

• Navigate to Setup > Fax Setup > Advanced Setup
• Select Fax Defaults > Restore Fax Settings
• This clears any corrupted configurations that may be triggering the reboot

 

3. Isolate the Phone Line

• Disconnect any other devices (phones, splitters, surge protectors) from the fax line
• Plug the printer directly into a wall jack using a new phone cord
• Avoid using VoIP or DSL filters unless absolutely necessary

Signal interference or line noise can cause the fax module to crash and reboot.

 

4. Disable Auto Fax Reception Temporarily

• Go to Fax Setup > Receive Settings
• Set Auto Answer to Off
• This prevents the printer from reacting to incoming rings while you test stability

You can manually receive faxes during this period using the Start Fax button when needed.

 

5. Reinstall the Latest Firmware

Even if you're already on the 2025-07-05 version, reinstalling can help:

• Visit the HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3102fdw support page
• Download the latest firmware utility
• Connect via USB and run the update manually

This ensures the firmware is fully applied and not corrupted during a previous install.

Let me know how the printer responds—I’ll guide you further if needed. You're not alone in this, and we’ll get it sorted.

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

[zeuscho]

Hi @Hawks_Eye ,

Applied your solution #2 and seems to work. Will keep observation for the fax calls. Thanks for your help.

[Hawks_Eye]

@zeuscho You are very Welcome!

Thanks for the update—and I’m really glad to hear that solution #2 seems to be working for now.

You’ve already done the right thing by applying the workaround and keeping an eye on it.

You're awesome, and I'm honored to have been your go-to guide today! 😊

Stay fantastic, and have an amazing day ahead! 

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye