Many Wi-Fi printers periodically check for firmware updates and install them automatically. That can be convenient, but some users prefer manual control, especially when an update might change cartridge behavior or interrupt printing.
Does this affect you?
Use this if your HP, Epson, Canon, Brother, or similar network printer updates itself without asking, or if you want to review updates before installing them.
Turn off automatic updates on an HP printer
HP models usually expose this through the printer display or HP Smart.
- On the printer touchscreen, open Settings, Preferences, or Printer Maintenance.
- Find Printer Update or Firmware Update Settings.
- Choose Install Updates Automatically: Off, or choose Notify me without automatic installation if available.
- In HP Smart, open the printer settings and check Printer Update or Advanced Settings for the same control.
Turn off automatic updates on Epson or Canon
The wording differs, but the idea is the same.
- On Epson, open Setup or Maintenance and find Firmware Update. Turn Auto Update or update notifications off if the model allows it.
- On Canon, check Setup > Device Settings or Wireless LAN Settings for Firmware Update Settings.
- Disable Auto Update and save the setting.
- Use manual check-for-updates later when you decide an update is needed.
Confirm it stayed off
Some resets and major updates can restore defaults.
- After a few days, open the same menu again.
- Confirm Auto Update still shows off.
- If it reverted after a factory reset or firmware change, switch it off again.
More control
You also delay fixes
With automatic updates disabled, security fixes, bug fixes, and compatibility updates wait until you install them manually. If a feature stops working, check whether a firmware update is available.
USB and app prompts may be separate
Turning off network auto-update may not stop a computer utility or mobile app from offering a firmware update. Decline those prompts too if you want to avoid updates.
Drivers are different
Firmware runs inside the printer. Computer printer drivers update separately through Windows Update, macOS, or manufacturer apps.
Sources
- HP Support – Manage Automatic Firmware Updates (2025)
- Epson Support – Firmware Update Notification Settings (2025)
- Canon Support – Automatic Firmware Update Settings (2025)