Tech Support

How to Block Epson Printer Firmware Updates Through Your Router (Ultimate Guide)

Posted on by Swift Ink

Epson printers are highly respected for their print quality and reliability, but users often face issues when automatic firmware updates disable third-party ink cartridges. If you want to prevent Epson from forcing updates that may disrupt your setup, this guide will show you how to block Epson printer updates at the network level and keep your printer running your way.

Why Block Epson Printer Firmware Updates?

  • Protect Third-Party Cartridges: Updates often target non-Epson cartridges and cause errors.
  • Ensure Printer Stability: Unwanted updates can introduce bugs or performance changes.
  • Retain Control: You choose when and how your printer updates, not Epson.

Step-by-Step: How to Block Epson Printer Updates

Step 1: Turn Off Updates on the Printer

Start by disabling automatic updates from the printer itself:

On Epson Printers (general method):

  1. Tap the Home button.
  2. Select Settings.
  3. Navigate to Firmware Update Settings.
  4. Choose Download Schedule or Update Settings.
  5. Select Never or Off for automatic updates.

Via Epson Web Config (Web Interface):

  1. Find your printer’s IP address (Home > Network Settings).
  2. Enter the IP into your web browser (e.g., http://192.168.1.100).
  3. Look for Administrator Settings > Firmware Update Settings.
  4. Disable Automatic Firmware Updates.

Tip: Some Epson models still check occasionally. That’s why blocking at the network level is key.

Step 2: Block Epson Update Servers at Your Router

To fully prevent updates, block Epson’s update servers.

Block the following domains:

update.epson.com
updateserver.epson.net
firmware.epson.com
fw.epson.com

Optional broader blocks:

epson.com

Blocking epson.com will block Epson’s support and download pages too. Use only if necessary.

How to Block Domains:

  • Basic Home Routers: Use Parental Controls or Firewall Settings.
  • Advanced Routers (pfSense, Ubiquiti, etc.): Apply DNS filtering or Firewall Rules.
  • Pi-hole or AdGuard Home Users: Add the domains to your custom blocklist.
  • NextDNS Users: Add them to your “Denylist” section.

Pre-Made Blocklist (Copy & Paste)

For easy setup, here’s a ready-to-go blocklist:

# Epson Firmware Update Blocklist
update.epson.com
updateserver.epson.net
firmware.epson.com
fw.epson.com

Optional: Add epson.com for maximum blocking.

Bonus Step: Block by IP (Advanced)

Since Epson’s IP addresses can change, domain blocking is more reliable. But if you want:

  • Monitor printer DNS requests.
  • Block specific IP addresses if needed.

Final Thoughts

Blocking Epson printer firmware updates is essential if you want to:

  • Continue using third-party ink cartridges.
  • Avoid update-related performance issues.
  • Maintain control over your own equipment.

In just a few minutes, you can shield your printer from unwanted changes and protect your investment.

Print smarter. Block the updates. Stay free!

Swift Ink