Bypasses software-induced, artificial obsolescence of perfectly fine cartridges. ⚠️ Important Precautions Before You Begin
The printer sat in the corner of the home office like a dormant volcano. It was an HP OfficeJet Pro 8620, a machine built for a small business but pressed into servitude for a single freelance writer named Elias. For three years, it had been a faithful soldier. It scanned contracts, printed invoices, and whirred with a satisfying, mechanical competence.
For the technically proficient, a more direct approach exists. A script known as was designed specifically for this series of printers. The script is designed to directly upload "timebomb-less" or older firmware to the printer via the network. However, note that the original maintainer noted that the script itself does not provide the firmware file. Users were expected to source the specific file needed (e.g., ojpro_8620_1416A_04152014_1.ful.rfu ) for the script to work.
HP's official stance is that downgrading firmware on the OfficeJet Pro 8620 is not possible. In many official support forum responses, HP employees state: . This is because newer firmware often includes protections designed to prevent reverting to older, less restrictive versions. hp officejet pro 8620 firmware downgrade new
Because standard executable installers from HP will block older firmware installation if they detect a newer version already installed, you must bypass the graphic user interface (GUI) installer. Follow this direct, manual method using an .rfu (Remote Firmware Update) file.
Interestingly, some users have reported success using HP's own professional-grade device management software, HP Web Jetadmin. This tool is designed for IT administrators to manage multiple printers but can be used to downgrade firmware on a single device.
Some newer firmware versions block standard downgrades. You may need to put the printer into a special state: Turn the printer off. For three years, it had been a faithful soldier
If the software downgrade fails, the "new" solution the repair shops are using is . On eBay, you can buy "pre-downgraded" logic boards for the 8620 for about $40. Swapping the mainboard resets the firmware to the factory version that shipped with the board (usually a 2018 version). This is a 30-minute screwdriver job. It is the only 100% guaranteed method left.
Confirm the printer has a stable connection to your computer via a or a shared Wi-Fi Network . Step 2: Unblock Downgrades in the Printer Menu
Once the downgrade is finished, you must immediately disable updates to prevent the printer from automatically re-installing the version that blocks your ink. A script known as was designed specifically for
Given that the firmware files are often removed from official sources, the most "new" developments in the downgrade game come from third-party ink retailers. Following a wave of updates in 2024 and early 2025, many of these vendors aggregated the necessary .rfu (Remote Firmware Update) files into publicly accessible cloud storage.
Search for "HP Update" in the Start menu > Open the HP Update Settings > Select to disable the background checker.
"Sir, the printer is working as intended."
The remains a legendary workhorse, celebrated for its high-speed printing, low running costs, and durability. However, recent firmware updates (such as version FDP1CN2022AR and newer builds) enforce aggressive "Dynamic Security" measures. This code locks out non-HP microchips, instantly rendering your third-party or refilled ink cartridges unusable overnight.
Once (or if) you manage to get the older firmware installed, you must immediately disable the feature that caused the problem in the first place: .