HP Printer Error Code 99 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

HP error 99 means the printer experienced a failure while downloading or installing a firmware update. The update was either interrupted, corrupted, or could not be applied correctly. The printer may be partially updated and require recovery before normal printing can resume.

Affected Models

HP LaserJet Enterprise M600 Series
HP LaserJet Enterprise M700 Series
HP LaserJet Enterprise M800 Series
HP Color LaserJet Enterprise M553
HP LaserJet Pro M400 Series

Common Causes

The firmware download was interrupted by a loss of network connection partway through
The printer received a firmware file that was corrupted or is for the wrong printer model
The printer's storage ran out of space before the firmware file could be saved completely
The firmware file was sent via USB drive but the drive was removed before the process completed
A compatibility issue exists between the new firmware and specific hardware components in this unit

How to Fix It

Turn off the printer, wait 60 seconds, and turn it back on. On some models, a failed firmware update leaves the printer in a recovery state that a restart can clear.

Watch the startup screen carefully — the printer may show a recovery or diagnostic message that guides next steps.
Download the correct firmware for your specific printer model from hp.com/support. Search your exact model number and download the firmware file.

Make absolutely sure the firmware file is for your exact printer model. Installing the wrong model's firmware will trigger error 99.
Apply the firmware via USB. Copy the firmware .bdl file to a FAT32 formatted USB drive, insert it into the printer's USB port, and follow the printer's firmware update menu.

A USB firmware update bypasses network issues and delivers the file directly to the printer.
If the printer is completely frozen and unresponsive, try the Cold Reset procedure for your model. This is typically done by holding specific buttons during power-on. Check HP's support site for your model's exact key sequence.

A cold reset restores factory defaults and often allows firmware to be reinstalled from scratch.
After successful firmware installation, run a configuration page from the printer's menu to confirm the correct firmware version is installed.

The configuration page lists the firmware version currently running. Compare it to the version shown on HP's download page.

When to Call a Professional

Error 99 is a firmware issue that can often be resolved with a manual firmware recovery. If the printer is completely unresponsive after a failed update, contact HP Support at 1-800-474-6836. HP's technical support team has specific recovery tools for printers that are stuck after a failed firmware update.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do HP printers update their firmware automatically?

Modern HP printers connected to a network can receive and install firmware updates automatically. This is controlled by the HP Web Jetadmin software or the printer's built-in update settings. Automatic updates are generally safe, but a network interruption during the update can trigger error 99. For critical printers, some IT administrators disable automatic updates to control timing.

Can a firmware update improve my printer's performance?

Yes. HP releases firmware updates to fix bugs, improve print quality, patch security vulnerabilities, and add features. Installing the latest firmware is always a good idea for any printer connected to a network. HP's security advisories often address vulnerabilities in older firmware versions that could be exploited on business networks.

How do I check what firmware version my HP printer is running?

Print a configuration page from the printer's control panel. On most HP LaserJets, go to Reports > Configuration Page. The firmware version, also called the firmware datecode, appears in the Device Information section. You can compare this to the latest available version on HP's support website for your model.