So one of our local clients called us and asked if we could do some printer troubleshooting. They have a HP LaserJet Pro 400 M401dn for a network printer. The problem, it keeps on getting service error 79 lately and the warranty is expired. This error message usually pops up when a print job is corrupted. It can also be caused by miscommunication between the spooler and the printer due to outdated firmware.
It is a very common issue on HP LaserJets so I came by the next day and checked things out. First thing I did was try the troubleshooting guide that HP gave out in forums, but sadly it didn’t resolve the problem. Hence, I attempted to sort out the printer issue based on my years of experience. Here I will be sharing the steps which fixed service error 79.
What you will need:
Internet Access
Admin Account (for the computer/s)
Phase #1:
Switch off the HP LaserJet Pro 400 printer.
Check and Remove print jobs from all the computers that have access to your network printer.
In the domain network, check who owns each print job in “See What’s Printing” box.
Log in to each of those accounts and try to remove them from the domain network.
If you still cancel the print jobs via specified accounts, remove and add the HP LaserJet Pro 400 from the list in “Devices and Printers”.
Note: Phase #1 is sufficient for most cases but if the error still persist, proceed to the next steps.
Phase #2:
Switch on the LaserJet Pro 400.
Make sure the printer is connected to the internet. You should have an Ethernet cable running from the device to your switch or router or modem.
On the M401dn control panel/screen, tap the “Network” icon.
Check the IP address on the printer. If it displays 192.168.XXX.XXX, it means you are connected to your home network. Otherwise, check this guide if you are getting something like 169.XXX.XXX.XX.
Go back to the home screen and tap the “Settings” icon.
Select LaserJet Update and check for firmware updates and make sure to get the latest.
Continue by selecting the update. Then, download and install.
After the firmware installs, you should be able to print again. I do highly recommend rebooting the HP LaserJet Pro 400 first to fully activate the new updates. Also, make sure that HP CF280a toner cartridge is not empty to avoid another printer hassle.
