HP Printer Blocked: Printer Blocked when printing from phone or Mac
Also shows as: Printer Error
On OfficeJet Pro 8100e, 9100e and 9700e printers, a 'Printer Blocked' or 'Printer Error' message can appear when printing from Android, or from iOS or Mac with the HP Smart app. HP says a firmware update clears it.
What to try
- On the printer Home screen, touch Menu.
- Touch Tools, then Maintenance.
- Touch Firmware, then Check.
- Touch Yes, then Continue, and let the firmware update finish.
When it needs a technician
If the message continues after the firmware update, contact HP Customer Support.
Which models show Printer Blocked
HP documents this code for models including HP OfficeJet Pro 8100e series, HP OfficeJet Pro 9100e series, HP OfficeJet Pro 9700e series.
First steps for any printer error
- Write down the exact code before you do anything else — similar-looking codes often mean completely different things.
- Power the printer off, unplug it for a couple of minutes, then power it back on. A surprising number of transient errors clear here.
- Open the covers and check for paper scraps, packaging material, or anything blocking the carriage.
- Check the cartridges or tanks are genuine, correctly seated, and not empty.
- Confirm the printer is plugged directly into a wall outlet, not a power strip or extension lead.
- Check your model’s own manual — codes are model-specific, and the manual is the authority for your machine.
Source: HP Customer Support - 'Printer Blocked' or 'Printer Error' on HP OfficeJet Pro 8100e, 9100e, 9700e. Codes are model-specific, so your own model's manual is the final word. Reviewed October 2026.
Still showing Printer Blocked?
Tell our printer technician your model and what you've tried. You'll find out whether it's fixable at home or worth repairing at all.
Ask about my printer — $1Eric Paul Amora · Printer & Hardware Repair Technician