🖨️ HP Dynamic Security Update – Why Your Third-Party Ink Cartridges No Longer Work
The HP dynamic security update is once again causing frustration for printer owners around the world. If your HP printer suddenly refuses to accept third-party ink cartridges, you’re not alone. This issue has re-emerged due to a printer firmware update that blocks cartridges using a non-HP chip.
In this article, we’ll explain how HP’s cartridge authentication system works, why it keeps blocking third-party ink, and what you can do to regain control over your printer and your budget.
🚫 What Is HP’s Dynamic Security?
HP dynamic security is a firmware-based feature introduced by HP in 2016. Its main function is to allow HP printers to detect and reject ink cartridges that do not contain HP’s proprietary chip. This means that even if a cartridge physically fits and contains compatible ink, the printer will block it from being used if it lacks HP’s digital signature.
Originally marketed as a security measure to “protect printer functionality,” dynamic security has raised concerns among consumers who see it as a way to force them into buying more expensive HP-branded ink.
🔄 Why Is HP Blocking Third-Party Ink Cartridges Again?
Many users thought they were safe after installing third-party cartridges successfully in the past. But HP has quietly reintroduced dynamic security through recent printer firmware updates. These updates automatically download and install on network-connected printers, even if you’re unaware of it.
Once the update is installed:
Cartridges using a non-HP chip will trigger an error.
Your printer may display a message like:
“Cartridge cannot be used. It appears to be non-HP.”
The printer will refuse to print until you replace the cartridge with an original HP product.
This has impacted both remanufactured and compatible third-party cartridges across several HP printer models.
🔐 How Cartridge Authentication Works
When a cartridge is inserted, the printer performs chip authentication:
It reads data from the cartridge’s chip.
If the chip is missing, invalid, or unrecognized, printing is blocked.
This applies even if the cartridge is full of ink and physically undamaged.
The authentication system is designed to:
Identify counterfeit or reused chips.
Enforce HP’s digital rights management (DRM) policies.
Restrict the use of recycled cartridges with third-party chips.
⚠️ Impact on Consumers
For many consumers and small businesses, this change has serious consequences:
🔴 Higher ink costs: HP-branded ink is often 2–3x more expensive than third-party alternatives.
🔴 Waste: Compatible cartridges already purchased are now useless.
🔴 Inconvenience: Printer downtime while users search for a workaround.
HP’s updates have disrupted classrooms, home offices, and print shops alike—often without warning.
🛠️ What You Can Do About It
Fortunately, you still have options. Here’s how to deal with the HP dynamic security update and continue using your printer affordably:
✅ 1. Disable Automatic Firmware Updates
To prevent future surprises, disable auto-updates in your printer settings:
On the Printer Panel:
Go to Settings > Printer Maintenance > Update Printer.
Choose “Do Not Check” or “Manual Updates.”
On HP Smart App:
Navigate to “Advanced Settings.”
Turn off “Automatic Updates.”
Note: Disabling updates will not remove existing firmware, but it prevents future blocks.
✅ 2. Roll Back the Firmware (If Possible)
Some printer models allow you to roll back to a previous firmware version where third-party cartridges still work.
Steps:
Visit HP’s official support site.
Search your printer model and select an older firmware version.
Download and install it manually via USB.
Turn off future automatic updates.
⚠️ HP sometimes removes older firmware, so act quickly.
✅ 3. Buy Compatible Cartridges with HP Chips
Some third-party suppliers now sell compatible cartridges with cloned or recycled HP chips. These usually bypass dynamic security and function normally.
Search for “HP-compatible cartridge with original chip.”
Read reviews carefully before purchase.
Avoid suspiciously low-priced listings.
✅ 4. Switch to a Printer Brand with Open Ink Policies
If you’re tired of dealing with HP’s restrictions, consider switching to:
Brother: known for fewer ink restrictions.
Canon (some models): often accept third-party cartridges.
Epson EcoTank: uses refillable ink tanks with no chips.
While this involves upfront cost, it can save money in the long run.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🔸 What is the HP dynamic security update?
It’s a firmware update that blocks third-party ink cartridges without HP chips, even if they are fully compatible.
🔸 Can I disable dynamic security permanently?
No official setting allows this, but you can prevent future updates and use older firmware.
🔸 Are third-party cartridges safe to use?
Yes, as long as they come from reputable brands and are chip-compatible.
🔸 Will using non-HP ink void my warranty?
No, using compatible cartridges does not void your printer warranty under U.S. and EU law.