When your HP printer displays the message “You cannot use this function because it has been disabled,” it typically means that a specific feature (such as scanning, copying, or wireless printing) has been turned off either through the printer settings, HP software, or due to account or security restrictions. Here are the steps to fix it.
Check Admin or Security Settings
1. Access the Embedded Web Server (EWS)
- Find the printer’s IP address from the control panel.
- Enter it into a browser to open the Embedded Web Server.
- Log in as Administrator (default credentials may be blank or provided in your manual).
- Go to Settings > Security > Administrator Settings.
- Look for any disabled functions (e.g., USB access, Scan to Email, Web Services) and re-enable them.
2. Check User Permissions
- Some features may be disabled for guest or non-admin users.
- Navigate to Settings > Access Control in EWS or HP Web Jetadmin.
- Assign full permissions to your account or role for the disabled function.
Re-enable the Function on the Printer Panel
3. Use Printer Control Panel
- From the home screen, go to Settings > Preferences or Setup.
- Look for sections like Copy Settings, Scan Settings, Web Services, or Wireless Settings.
- Re-enable the specific function that is greyed out or disabled.
Resolve HP+ or Instant Ink Restrictions
4. Sign in to HP Account
- If the printer is enrolled in HP+, you must be signed in to the linked HP account to use certain functions.
- On the printer display or in the HP Smart app, go to Account > Sign In and use your HP credentials.
5. Re-activate HP Services
- In some cases, HP Instant Ink or other cloud-based services must be active.
- In HP Smart, go to Account > Instant Ink or Services and verify the subscription or trial status.
Check for Firmware or Software Limitations
6. Update Printer Firmware
- Use the HP Smart app, HP Easy Start, or the Embedded Web Server to check for firmware updates.
- Updating can re-enable functions that were previously restricted or disabled due to bugs.
7. Reinstall Printer Software
- Uninstall the printer from your computer.
- Download and reinstall the latest drivers and utilities from support.hp.com.
Check Device-Specific Settings
8. USB and Network Function Lock
- On some HP models, USB printing/scanning or network printing can be disabled:
- Go to Settings > USB Settings or Network Settings.
- Enable access if it’s currently off.
9. Restore Factory Defaults
- If you cannot locate the issue:
- Go to Settings > Printer Maintenance > Restore > Restore Defaults.
- This will reset all settings, including disabled functions (note: you’ll need to reconfigure Wi-Fi and preferences).
If the message still appears after trying the above steps, contact HP Support, especially if the printer is managed or leased and might be restricted by policy.