How to Update Printer Firmware – 2 Common Methods to Update
How to Update Printer Firmware?
Having multiple layers of security is a recommended best practice for proactively protecting your printer fleet and minimizing the risk of cyberattacks. Printer firmware is one of these key layers. However, if you don’t update the firmware for your printer (or multi-function device), you could be leaving your business open to potential cyberattacks.
A 2023 survey of over 500 IT decision-makers revealed that 61 percent of the surveyed organizations had experienced a data loss related to unsecured printing, and 38 percent of these decision-makers agreed that it is becoming harder to keep up with print security demands.
Don’t let your printers become a backdoor for cyber attackers to enter your network. Keeping your printer firmware updated is an important part of your IT security strategy.
Updating printer firmware regularly helps fix vulnerabilities and keep your IT environment secure. Don’t delay—update the firmware on your printer today.
What is Printer Firmware?
Printer firmware is the software that your printer uses to communicate with your computer and your business’s network. It contains code that instructs the printer on what and how to print. Whether you have a single-function printer or a multi-function printing device, they all require the use of printer firmware to function properly.
To ensure optimal performance and security, it’s essential to regularly update firmware to the latest firmware version. Once the update is complete, your printer will be better equipped to handle tasks efficiently and securely. If your printer is connected to a server, ensure the firmware update is applied across all networked devices to maintain consistent functionality.
Why is Updating Printer Firmware Important?
Firmware updates are issued by printer equipment manufacturers to add new functionality or fix/patch known issues. For instance, HP regularly releases updates to enhance performance and security.
Occasionally, these updates are designed to close loopholes in the software that might be exploitable. If the loophole isn’t closed, a cyber attacker could exploit it to electronically enter your printer and possibly creep farther into your business’s computer network.
If this breach is not detected and shut down quickly, you risk the possibility of the cyber attacker spying on your network activity, mining your data, stealing your identity, and/or taking control of your devices.
Even small companies can fall victim to a cyberattack, and the effects can be devastating. In fact, 60 percent of small companies go out of business within six months of experiencing a data breach.
Don’t put your company at risk of having your data stolen and/or held for ransom. Stay on top of your printer’s firmware updates. Here’s how to do it:
- Download the latest firmware file from the manufacturer’s website, such as HP support.
- Ensure your printer is connected to the internet or connect your printer to the computer using a USB cable.
- Use the printer’s control panel to navigate to the firmware update option. Some printers allow you to update the firmware directly from the printer.
- Download the firmware file and start the update process. Follow the instructions to complete the upgrade.
- If an update is available, ensure you have the latest firmware version installed.
- After the update is complete, restart your printer to apply the changes.
- Never turn off the printer during the update process to avoid corrupting the firmware file.
By following these firmware update methods, you can ensure your printer’s firmware is always up-to-date, reducing the risk of cyberattacks and keeping your business secure.
Common Methods for Updating Printer Firmware
When creating your printer firmware update plan, you have several options to consider, particularly whether you’ll manage the updates yourself or work with a Managed Print Services (MPS) provider.
Managing Your Own Printer Fleet
If you own and manage your own printer fleet, you’ll need to schedule regular checks with the manufacturers to ensure your printer models have the most current firmware updates.
Working With a Managed Print Services Provider
If you enlist the services of an MPS provider, you’ll have multiple methods to choose from for your printer firmware update plans. Here’s a list of the most common methods, but we suggest you contact your MPS provider to fully understand and verify which methods are available to you:
- Manual Updates – Regularly check the manufacturer websites of your printers for firmware updates or security bulletins. IT Administrators at larger companies often choose this route as it allows a business to weigh the benefits of the updates against the potential disruptions they might cause.
- Automatic Updates – Upon request, your MPS provider may configure your printers to accept automatic firmware downloads as soon as they are available or schedule them to download during non-business hours for user convenience. Smaller companies often choose this route.
- Updates During a Service Call – MPS service providers often include a printer firmware update check as part of their standard service call procedures.
Additionally, some MPS providers offer optional print security updates and information by email for extra peace of mind.
Whether managing your own printer fleet or working with an MPS provider, keeping your printer firmware updated is crucial for maintaining security and efficiency.
Which Printer Firmware Update Method Should I Choose?
Having a plan to address printer firmware updates is important. The method and cadence should align with your business’s overall security procedures and IT initiatives.
Not sure where to start? Consult with a skilled MPS provider. They can guide you through the decision-making process and help you choose the best update method for your organization.
Can you update printer firmware?
Yes, you can update printer firmware. Updating printer firmware involves downloading the latest firmware version from the manufacturer’s website and installing it on your printer. You can do this manually by connecting the printer to your computer via USB or through a network connection.
Some printers allow you to update firmware directly from the printer’s control panel if they are connected to the internet. Automatic updates can also be configured through Managed Print Services (MPS) providers, ensuring that your printers receive the latest updates without manual intervention. Regular firmware updates are crucial for maintaining security and enhancing the performance of your printer fleet.
How do I update firmware on my HP computer?
To update firmware on your HP computer, use HP Support Assistant. This tool helps find and install updates, including BIOS updates. Follow these steps:
- In Windows, search for and open HP Support Assistant, or click the app icon in the taskbar.
- On the My Dashboard tab, locate your computer.
- Click on Updates to check for available updates.
HP Support Assistant will automatically detect and install the necessary updates, ensuring your system stays current and secure. Regularly checking for updates helps maintain your computer’s performance and security.
Conclusion
In conclusion, keeping your HP computer’s firmware updated is essential for optimal performance and security. Using HP Support Assistant simplifies this process by automatically detecting and installing necessary updates, including BIOS updates.
Regularly checking for and applying these updates helps protect your system against vulnerabilities and ensures it operates efficiently. Whether managed manually or through an automated system, staying current with firmware updates is a crucial aspect of maintaining your computer’s health and safeguarding your data. Make it a routine part of your IT maintenance to keep your technology running smoothly and securely.
