How to Disable HP+ Activation on HP+ Printer?

Posted by Chloe Harter , 08 Jul, 2025
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HP+ is a subscription-based printing service designed to improve convenience through features such as automatic ink replenishment, mobile printing, and advanced security. However, it has some strict requirements, including mandatory use of HP Original Ink, a constant Internet connection, and an HP account. Many users find these restrictions frustrating and prefer a traditional setup without HP+. If you have recently purchased an HP+ printer and would like to avoid these restrictions, this blog will show you how to bypass HP+ activation during the setup process.

What Is HP+?

HP+(HP plus) is a firmware-based service that turns your printer into a smart, connected device.

It offers benefits such as automatic ink supply (subscription-based), enhanced security updates, and remote printing via the HP Smart app. But there are some limitations: such as the use of HP-branded ink (third-party cartridges will be blocked), the need for a constant internet connection, and the mandatory registration of an HP account.

HP+ printers usually end with “e”, such as HP DeskJet 2742e, HP DeskJet 2752e, HP ENVY 6052e, HP OfficeJet Pro 8035e, HP OfficeJet Pro 8138e, HP OfficeJet Pro 9730e, and so on.

For users who value flexibility, it is essential to avoid activating HP+.

Can You Fully Disable HP+?

Unfortunately, once HP+ is activated, it cannot be completely disabled. The service is embedded in the printer firmware, and HP does not provide an official method for removing it. However, if you have not yet activated HP+, you can skip this step during setup.

If your printer is already registered with HP+, your options are limited. You must continue to use original HP ink. Some compatible cartridges can be used for a short period of time but will be disabled at any time, indicating a “Cartridges Rejected” error. Also, downgrading the firmware or restoring factory settings will not remove HP+.

Some users have reported that replacing the printer’s logic board may solve the problem, but it is costly and not guaranteed. The best approach is to prevent HP+ activation during the initial setup process.

How to Avoid Activating HP+ During Setup

If your HP+ printer is new and has not yet been configured, follow the steps below to skip HP+ activation. Please note that this method is only applicable to HP+ printers with screens.

1. Initial Setup

Turn on your HP+ printer and follow the on-screen prompts. Select your language and country of residence. When you are prompted to visit the HP’s setup website, skip this step (do not install the HP software).

2. Install Ink Cartridges

Then, open the front or top cover of your printer and insert the HP ink cartridge. Remove any protective seals and insert it into the correct slot and close the printer cover.

3. Load Paper & Align Print Head

Next, place A4 or Letter-sized paper in the input tray. On the printer display, select “Alignment Required” and “Align.”

Print an alignment page, then place it on the scanner glass and press the “Scan” button. Confirm that the alignment was successful, choose “OK”.

4. Skip HP Software & Set Preferences

The printer will then redirect to the setup website page, prompting “Return to Setup Website”. Please click the “question mark” in the upper right corner and select “Exit.” Then, continue to select “Exit” to skip the HP software.

Then, configure the date and time.

When on the “Update Preferences” page, select “Notify” instead of “Auto Update”.

At this point you have completed the setup of your HP+ printer. You have avoided the HP+ activation.

5. Connect to Wi-Fi (Optional)

Next, we can use the HP Smart app to connect your printer.

Open the app, tap “+” (Add Printer), and select your HP printer model. Enter your Wi-Fi password to connect to the printer. Refer to the blog How to Connect Epson Printer to WiFi for more details.

6. Decline HP+ & Optional Services

After the connection is successful, you will be prompted again to activate HP+, select the font at the bottom “Do Not Activate HP+”, then select “Decline HP+”, select “Continue.”

Then, continue to reject HP Instant Ink: select “Do Not Enable Ink Delivery,” “Skip Offer,” select “Continue Setup.”

On the “Printer updates” page, select “Notify,” and “Apply,” and finally you can print!

7. Setup Complete

Your printer should now appear in the HP Smart app and display the ink levels. It is now ready to use without activating HP+.

Check out this video for detailed instructions

Also, this method works on most HP printers, but the steps may vary depending on the model. This video provides a different way to disable it.

What If HP+ Is Already Activated?

If you have HP+ enabled, you cannot disable it completely.

HP+ printers block third-party ink cartridges, so you must use HP original ink. Alternatively, return your HP+ printer and switch to a non-HP+ printer (i.e. a standard HP printer).

Conclusion

HP+ offers smart features, but it also comes with some limitations that many users find inconvenient. If you haven’t activated HP+ yet, you can skip the activation step during setup by following our guide. However, once activated, HP+ cannot be completely disabled without extreme measures such as replacing hardware.

Before purchasing an HP printer, check to see if it’s an HP+ model and decide if the subscription features are worth the cost. If you want more control over your printing experience, consider non-HP+ alternatives.