Keeping your HP printer’s firmware up to date is important for performance, security, and compatibility—but recent updates have also sparked controversy by disabling third-party ink and toner cartridges. In 2025, it’s more important than ever to know exactly how to update firmware, when to avoid it, and how to prevent automatic updates if you’re using non-HP supplies.
Here’s everything you need to know, including recent firmware news, step-by-step instructions, and compatibility warnings.
📰 Latest Firmware News (June 2025)
HP has rolled out two major firmware updates that impact a wide range of printers:
- Firmware 2514A (released May 6, 2025): For OfficeJet Pro models like the 7720, 7730, 7740, 8210, and 8710–8740.
- Firmware 2513A (released April 30, 2025): For LaserJet Pro models in the 4001, 4002, 4101, and 4102 series.
These updates include minor performance and security enhancements—but also restrict third-party cartridges. Many users report error messages like “Non-HP cartridge detected” or printers refusing to print altogether when non-HP chips are used.
If you’re using refilled or remanufactured cartridges, these firmware changes can effectively lock you out of printing.
🔧 How to Update HP Firmware – Step-by-Step
1. Using the HP Smart App or Printer Touchscreen
The easiest way to update your printer’s firmware:
- Open the HP Smart app or access your printer’s touchscreen menu.
- Navigate to:
Settings → Printer Maintenance → Update Printer - If an update is available, follow the on-screen prompts to install it.
2. Manual Update via USB (For Advanced Users)
Some printers support USB-based firmware updates:
- Visit HP’s official support page for your printer model.
- Download the
.binor.fulfirmware file. - Copy it to a blank USB drive (formatted as FAT32).
- Insert the USB into the printer.
- The printer will detect the update—just follow the prompts.
Note: USB firmware updates are only supported on select models. Check the documentation on your model’s support page.
3. Direct Download From HP’s Website
- Go to support.hp.com and enter your printer model.
- Under Software & Drivers, locate the latest firmware version.
- Download and run the firmware update utility—HP will try to detect your printer automatically.
This method is ideal if your printer is connected to Wi-Fi but not responding via the Smart app.
⚠️ Compatibility and Update Caution Tips
❌ Third-Party Cartridge Warning
If you use compatible cartridges from non-HP brands, beware:
- Firmware 2513A and 2514A may permanently block these supplies.
- Even if your printer previously accepted them, the update could trigger error messages or a hard lock.
🛑 How To Turn Off Automatic Firmware Updates
To avoid surprise firmware installs:
- On the printer touchscreen, go to:
Settings → Printer Maintenance → Update Printer - Toggle off both:
- “Check for Updates Automatically”
- “Allow Updates”
This disables background updates and puts you in control.
Some models may label these as “Manage Updates” or “Printer Updates” under the Setup menu.
✅ Some Brands Still Work
According to reports, THI and a few other suppliers have released compatible chips that work even after the 2025 firmware updates. However, results may vary—always check compatibility before updating.
✅ Summary Table
| Task | Steps |
|---|---|
| Run Automatic Update | HP Smart app or Printer Panel → Settings → Printer Maintenance → Update Printer |
| Manual USB Update | Download firmware → copy to USB → insert into printer → follow prompts |
| Disable Auto-Updates | Settings → Setup/Maintenance → Manage Updates → Turn off auto-checks and installs |
TL;DR
- HP’s latest firmware updates (2513A & 2514A) block many third-party cartridges.
- Update only if you’re using genuine HP ink or compatible third-party chips.
- Use the HP Smart app, printer touchscreen, or USB to install updates.
- Disable auto-updates to avoid losing compatibility with non-HP supplies.
Latest About ASUS RT-AX86U
The ASUS RT-AX86U continues to be a standout performer in the Wi-Fi 6 router market. This powerful networking device offers impressive speeds up to 5700 Mbps, making it ideal for gaming and homes with multiple connected devices. Its unique design features three streams on the 2.4 GHz band and four streams on the 5 GHz band, powered by Broadcom technology.
The RT-AX86U currently ranks as the #1 Wi-Fi 6 router according to SmallNetBuilder, demonstrating its exceptional performance in real-world scenarios. The router includes special features for gamers, such as a dedicated Mobile Game Mode designed to minimize lag during gameplay. For households with expanding connectivity needs, the router is also compatible with ASUS AI Mesh systems for extended coverage.
While the standard RT-AX86U remains popular, it’s worth noting that its Merlin firmware support may be limited in the future. For those interested in the latest enhancements, ASUS now offers an RT-AX86U Pro version with additional improvements while maintaining the core features that made the original model successful.
The ASUS RT-AX86U (and its Pro variant) continues to be a popular and well-regarded Wi-Fi 6 gaming router, even with newer Wi-Fi 7 models emerging. Here’s a summary of the latest information:
Key Features and Performance (Still Relevant):
- Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax): It offers ultrafast speeds up to 5700 Mbps with Wi-Fi 6 and 160MHz channels, providing lower latency, faster speeds, and better efficiency for compatible devices.
- Mobile Game Mode: A prominent feature that minimizes lag and latency for mobile gaming with a single tap in the ASUS Router app.
- True 2 Gbps Wired and Wireless Speeds: The router supports aggregated 2 Gbps WAN connections and has a wired 2.5 Gbps port, allowing it to handle high-speed internet plans.
- Commercial-grade Security (AiProtection Pro): It includes lifetime free AiProtection Pro, powered by Trend Micro, offering robust network security, malicious site blocking, and advanced parental controls.
- AiMesh Compatible: The RT-AX86U can be easily integrated into an AiMesh system to create a seamless whole-home mesh network, extending coverage and eliminating dead zones.
- VPN Support: It features comprehensive VPN options including VPN Fusion, Instant Guard (for a one-click secure VPN when away from home), and support for various VPN client and server protocols (OpenVPN, WireGuard, IPSec, PPTP, L2TP).
- Gaming-focused features: Dedicated gaming port that prioritizes wired devices, and Gear Accelerator for wireless device prioritization.
- Strong Performance: Reviews consistently highlight its excellent throughput, range, and particularly its low latency, making it a strong choice for gamers.
Recent Updates and Developments:
- Firmware Updates: ASUS regularly releases firmware updates for the RT-AX86U series. Recent updates (as of early 2025) have focused on:
- Security Fixes: Addressing various vulnerabilities (e.g., UI issues, client binding, input parameter handling, AiCloud, XSS, code execution, OpenSSL, curl, FFmpeg, SSH brute force, null pointer dereference, token authentication). ASUS recommends updating to the latest firmware to protect against these.
- System Stability and Improvements: Optimizing memory management, improving web rendering, enhancing system access control, and fixing various bugs related to VPN fusion, AiMesh, network map, and USB HDD compatibility.
- Feature Enhancements: Allowing WireGuard Server clients to access Samba server, enabling failback function for iOS/Android USB backup WAN, updating timezone lists, and supporting ECDSA certificates for Let’s Encrypt.
- RT-AX86U Pro: ASUS released the “Pro” version of the RT-AX86U, which features a slightly faster 2.0 GHz quad-core processor (compared to the original’s 1.8 GHz quad-core), more RAM (1GB vs 512MB), and support for VLANs, which can be beneficial for some advanced users or small businesses.
Current Market Position:
- The ASUS RT-AX86U and RT-AX86U Pro remain highly recommended Wi-Fi 6 routers, especially for gamers, due to their performance, features, and continuous firmware support.
- While Wi-Fi 7 routers are now available, the RT-AX86U still offers excellent value and performance for most users, particularly those with Wi-Fi 6 compatible devices.
- It’s generally priced in the range of $220 – $290 USD, making it a competitive option for its feature set.
Key Takeaways
- The RT-AX86U delivers exceptional Wi-Fi 6 performance with speeds up to 5700 Mbps and specialized gaming features.
- ASUS offers both standard and Pro versions of the router, with the Pro model providing enhanced capabilities for more demanding users.
- The router supports AI Mesh technology for expanded home coverage and includes multiple security features for network protection.
Design and Performance Features
The ASUS RT-AX86U combines striking aesthetics with powerful capabilities. This router delivers exceptional performance through its advanced hardware and innovative connectivity options.
Hardware Specifications
The RT-AX86U features the impressive AX5700 dual-band Wi-Fi 6 technology, delivering speeds up to 5700 Mbps. It’s powered by a 1.8GHz quad-core processor that efficiently handles multiple connected devices without performance drops.
The router supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands with 1024-QAM technology for enhanced data transmission. Its hardware setup includes one 2.5Gbps WAN port, four Gigabit LAN ports, and two USB ports for additional connectivity options.
The RT-AX86U’s somewhat bulky design houses powerful internal components with external antennas for maximum signal strength. Despite its size, the router features gaming-oriented aesthetics with red accents that blend well in most home environments.
Advanced Connectivity
Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) capabilities enable the RT-AX86U to leverage 160MHz channels for ultrafast connections. This router implements crucial networking technologies including MU-MIMO, OFDMA, and beamforming to optimize performance across multiple devices.
The dedicated Mobile Game Mode minimizes lag and latency for smartphone gaming. For wired connections, the router supports link aggregation, allowing users to combine two Ethernet ports for improved throughput.
WPA3 encryption ensures heightened security for all connected devices. The router’s Smart Connect feature automatically assigns devices to appropriate bands, though some users report this can occasionally impact overall speeds.
AI Mesh System and Modes
The RT-AX86U fully integrates with ASUS AiMesh, allowing it to function as part of a whole-home mesh network. Users can combine multiple ASUS routers to eliminate dead zones and expand coverage without sacrificing speed.
The router offers flexibility through multiple operation modes. Wireless Router Mode serves as the default configuration, while Access Point Mode converts wired internet to wireless. Repeater Mode extends existing Wi-Fi coverage, and Media Bridge Mode connects wired devices to wireless networks.
The AI-driven system automatically optimizes connections and manages traffic prioritization. Network settings adjust in real-time based on usage patterns, ensuring critical applications receive bandwidth priority.
Network Management and Security
The ASUS RT-AX86U router delivers exceptional network management and security features that protect users while providing flexible control options. The router combines advanced threat protection with user-friendly management tools to create a secure home network environment.
Comprehensive Security Features
The RT-AX86U comes with lifetime free AiProtection Pro powered by Trend Micro, providing robust security against various online threats. This comprehensive security suite actively monitors network traffic and blocks malicious websites before they can harm connected devices.
The router supports the latest WPA3 security protocol, which offers stronger encryption and better protection against password cracking attempts compared to older standards. This ensures wireless connections remain secure from unauthorized access.
Built-in firewall protection helps filter unwanted traffic, while the router also supports encrypted VPN tunneling through IPSec protocols. Users can configure secure VPN clients or set up the router as a VPN server.
For additional security on the go, ASUS Instant Guard allows users to create secure connections to their home network when away from home. This feature is particularly useful when using public Wi-Fi networks.
Innovative Network Management
The RT-AX86U offers extensive network management capabilities through its intuitive dashboard. Users can easily monitor bandwidth usage, set up traffic prioritization, and configure advanced settings.
The Traffic Analyzer provides detailed insights into network usage, showing which devices are consuming bandwidth and what applications they’re using. This helps identify potential network bottlenecks or unusual activity.
Port forwarding and DMZ settings are easily accessible, allowing for customized network configurations. The built-in DHCP server simplifies IP address management for all connected devices.
Configuration backup features protect network settings, letting users quickly restore their preferred setup if needed. The router also supports IPTV configurations for those using television streaming services.
Guest Network functionality creates separate access points for visitors, keeping the main network secure while still providing internet connectivity to guests.
Enhanced Gaming Experience
The RT-AX86U’s Gaming Port automatically prioritizes the device connected to it, ensuring the lowest possible latency for gaming devices. This dedicated connection helps minimize lag during competitive online gaming sessions.
Mobile Game Mode optimizes connections for smartphone gaming, reducing ping times and packet loss. This feature can be easily toggled through the ASUS Router app, providing flexibility for mobile gamers.
Adaptive QoS (Quality of Service) intelligently manages bandwidth allocation, prioritizing gaming traffic during gaming sessions while balancing other network needs like video streaming or web browsing.
Traffic Control settings allow users to manually assign bandwidth limits to specific devices, ensuring critical applications receive the necessary resources. This prevents any single device from monopolizing network capacity.
The router’s advanced hardware architecture efficiently handles multiple gaming sessions simultaneously, perfect for households with several gamers.
Frequently Asked Questions
The ASUS RT-AX86U series offers advanced networking capabilities with several models designed for different user needs. Users commonly ask about specifications, performance, and comparisons between different ASUS router models.
What are the specifications of the ASUS RT-AX86U router?
The ASUS RT-AX86U is a dual-band WiFi 6 (802.11ax) router that delivers speeds up to 5700 Mbps. It features a 1.8 GHz quad-core processor and includes both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.
The router comes with one 2.5G port and four gigabit LAN ports for wired connections. It also includes one USB 3.2 Gen 1 port and one USB 2.0 port for storage or printer sharing.
The RT-AX86U supports AiMesh technology, allowing users to create a whole-home mesh network when paired with other compatible ASUS routers.
How does the ASUS RT-AX86U perform in recent reviews?
Recent reviews praise the RT-AX86U for its excellent performance and stability in real-world conditions. Many tech sites highlight its impressive range and consistent speeds even in congested environments.
Reviewers particularly note its gaming features, including the dedicated gaming port that automatically prioritizes the connected device. The router’s ability to handle multiple connected devices without performance degradation has been widely appreciated.
Security features like AiProtection Pro powered by Trend Micro receive positive mentions for providing comprehensive network protection without subscription fees.
What are the user opinions on the ASUS RT-AX86U as seen on Reddit?
Reddit users generally report positive experiences with the RT-AX86U, though some mention connectivity issues. According to search results, some users experience problems with devices connecting to either the 2.4GHz or 5GHz bands.
Many Reddit users recommend using the default WiFi settings with Dual Band Smart Connect enabled. Setting the 2.4GHz band to 20MHz is often suggested for better compatibility with older devices.
Users appreciate the router’s customization options but note there can be a learning curve for those unfamiliar with advanced networking settings.
What are the differences between the ASUS RT-AX86U and the RT-AX86S models?
The main difference between the RT-AX86U and RT-AX86S is the processor. The RT-AX86U features a more powerful 1.8GHz quad-core processor, while the RT-AX86S uses a slightly less powerful CPU.
The RT-AX86U includes a 2.5G port, which the RT-AX86S lacks. This port is particularly valuable for users with multi-gig internet connections or for creating high-speed connections between network devices.
Both models support WiFi 6 technology and AiMesh, but the RT-AX86U generally delivers better performance for demanding applications like gaming or households with many connected devices.
How does the ASUS RT-AX86U compare to the ASUS RT-AX88U?
The RT-AX88U offers more LAN ports than the RT-AX86U, with eight gigabit ports compared to four. This makes the RT-AX88U better suited for users needing many wired connections.
The RT-AX86U features a 2.5G port, which the RT-AX88U lacks. However, the RT-AX88U compensates with more gigabit LAN ports and link aggregation support.
Both routers deliver similar wireless performance with WiFi 6 support, but the RT-AX86U is often preferred by gamers due to its gaming-oriented features and dedicated gaming port.
What are the advanced features offered by the ASUS RT-AX86U Pro?
The RT-AX86U Pro includes enhanced WiFi capabilities with support for the latest WiFi 6 standards. According to the search results, users can optimize performance by using DFS channels for reduced interference.
The Pro model maintains the gaming features of the standard version while adding improved performance and stability. The router includes Dual Band Smart Connect, which automatically assigns devices to the optimal frequency band.
ASUS provides warranty management and technical support through device registration. This allows users to easily track repair status and access support resources for the RT-AX86U Pro.
