While a successful downgrade restores the ability to use third-party ink, it introduces significant attack vectors. The HP 8620 is a sophisticated network node running a Linux-based kernel (HP’s Chai platform).
4.1 Known Vulnerabilities (CVEs) Older firmware versions are susceptible to known exploits. Specifically, the 8620 was affected by vulnerabilities cataloged as:
Downgrading the printer removes patches applied for these CVEs, turning the printer into a potential pivot point for attackers to access the wider network.
4.2 Network Exposure A compromised printer can be used to exfiltrate data, launch Denial of Service (DoS) attacks, or serve as a "watchdog" on the network traffic passing through it. In a corporate environment, using a downgraded printer violates standard patch management policies and compliance frameworks (such as ISO 27001 or NIST guidelines).
Pro tip: Before attempting, search for “HP OfficeJet Pro 8620 downgrade firmware 1719AR” in printer forums. Back up settings, and after success, disable Printer Updates in the Embedded Web Server (EWS) and block *.hp.com on your network if possible.
Would you like step-by-step instructions for the downgrade process as well?
Downgrading the firmware on an HP OfficeJet Pro 8620 to bypass "cartridge error" messages requires finding an older firmware version (like FDP1CN1910AR or similar) and flashing it via USB, as HP officially discourages downgrades. Important Pre-requisites: hp officejet pro 8620 firmware downgrade
Use a Windows PC: This process is generally more reliable on Windows.
USB Connection: You must connect the printer via USB cable to the computer, not Wi-Fi.
Disable Updates: Before beginning, go to Setup > Printer Maintenance > Update the Printer > Automatic Updates and turn them off to prevent it from re-updating. Steps to Downgrade (General Method)
Locate Old Firmware: Find an older firmware file (e.g., OJP8620_1910A.exe or OJP8620_1834A.exe). These are often found on third-party ink seller sites (like CompAndSave) or specialized forums (like r/printers) rather than the official HP site.
Remove New Cartridges: Some users report that 3rd party cartridges must be removed and replaced with empty or original HP cartridges to allow the firmware to flash without showing a "cartridge error" during the process. Run the Firmware: Double-click the downloaded .exe file.
Select Printer: The tool will search for your 8620. When it lists the printer, check the box and click Update. While a successful downgrade restores the ability to
Wait: The process takes about 2 minutes. The printer should restart. Do not turn off the printer during this time.
Verify: After it restarts, check the Printer Status Report to confirm the version has changed. Alternative Method: USB Drive (Flash Drive) If the .exe file doesn't work: Obtain the .ful firmware file.
Place the .ful file on a USB flash drive formatted to FAT32. Insert the USB stick into the front port of the printer.
The printer should detect the "upgrade" (actually a downgrade in this case) and prompt you to install it.
Note: While many users have successfully restored functionality to use third-party ink, some reports indicate that recent firmware FDP1CN2022AR and later are very difficult or impossible to roll back, resulting in error 83C00006. To help narrow down the best approach for you:
What is the current firmware version installed? (Found in Printer Status Report) Downgrading the printer removes patches applied for these
Are you currently getting a specific error code (like 83C00006)? Are you using third-party cartridges? Officejet Pro 8620 Downgrade firmware blocked by hp ?
You will need the following:
Before we dive into the technical steps, understanding the why is crucial. HP uses a security feature called Dynamic Security. This feature prevents printers from using cartridges that contain a non-HP chip.
Add these domains to your router’s blacklist:
5.1 Cartridge Bricking A critical hardware risk exists when downgrading. If a user installed a third-party cartridge while on new firmware, the printer may have written data to the cartridge chip identifying it as "used in a locked printer." Downgrading the printer firmware might not unlock these cartridges, as the lock status is stored on the cartridge's own IC. The printer may continue to reject them, rendering the downgrade futile for that specific set of consumables.
5.2 Web Services Incompatibility HP frequently updates the protocols used for cloud printing (HP ePrint, Google Cloud Print - now defunct, or HP Smart). Downgrading to firmware from, for example, 2015, renders the printer incompatible with modern cloud services and mobile app integrations, limiting functionality to local network printing only.
The HP Smart app on your phone or PC will try to re-enable auto-updates. Uninstall HP Smart and use the legacy HP Printer Assistant instead.