The 49.XXXX error is a critical firmware-related error commonly seen on HP LaserJet printers and HP All-in-One (AIO) printers.
This error typically causes the printer to freeze, reboot continuously, or stop responding, making it impossible to print until resolved.
This Knowledge Base article explains the technical causes, real-world scenarios, and step-by-step resolution methods to permanently fix the 49.XXXX error.
The 49.XXXX error indicates a firmware execution failure inside the printer.
It usually occurs when the printer processes corrupted print data or encounters a communication fault between firmware modules.
You may see variations such as:
49.38.07 Error
49.FF04 Error
49.4C02 Error
49.XXXX Service Error
All variants follow the same troubleshooting approach.
Internally, HP Laser printers run a firmware interpreter that processes incoming print jobs.
The error occurs when:
A malformed PCL / PostScript command is received
A third-party driver sends incompatible instructions
Firmware memory becomes unstable
Network print jobs contain corrupt packets
When firmware execution fails, the printer enters a protected halt state, resulting in the 49.XXXX error.
Printing PDF files from email attachments
Printing via network / shared printer
After installing new printer drivers
Printing large Excel or graphics-heavy documents
Printing from ERP / accounting software (Tally, Busy, SAP, etc.)
Turn OFF the printer
Disconnect:
Network cable (LAN)
USB cable
Power ON printer without any connection
✔ If printer reaches Ready state, the issue is print-job related
On the connected computer:
Open Devices and Printers
Right-click HP Printer → See what’s printing
Cancel all print jobs
Restart Print Spooler Service
net stop spooler net start spooler
Outdated firmware is the most common root cause.
Download latest firmware from HP Support
Perform firmware update using:
USB method (preferred)
Web Interface (EWS)
⚠ Do not interrupt power during update.
Remove existing printer completely
Download HP Universal Print Driver (UPD) – PCL6 preferred
Avoid:
Old CD drivers
Generic Windows drivers
Printer Properties → Advanced
Uncheck:
Enable advanced printing features
Apply & test print
Assign static IP to printer
Avoid WSD ports
Use Standard TCP/IP Port
Disable bi-directional support (test)
| Issue | Root Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Error reappears after reboot | Corrupt job resent | Clear spooler + reboot PC |
| Error only on one PC | Driver issue | Reinstall driver |
| Error on all systems | Firmware fault | Firmware upgrade |
| Error after PDF print | PDF renderer bug | Print as image |
Corrupt print jobs can originate from infected or compromised systems
Avoid printing from:
Unknown USB devices
Email attachments without scanning
Keep:
OS updated
Printer firmware updated
Disable unused network protocols (FTP, Telnet)
Always use official HP drivers
Keep printer firmware up to date
Avoid printing directly from browsers for large PDFs
Restart printers periodically in high-volume environments
Use print server queues instead of direct printing
The HP 49.XXXX error is a firmware execution fault triggered by corrupted print data or outdated firmware.
By isolating the printer, clearing print queues, updating firmware, and using proper drivers, the issue can be permanently resolved in most environments.
For recurring cases, firmware upgrade and driver standardization are essential.
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