How To Install HPLIP on Debian 13

Installing HP Linux Imaging and Printing (HPLIP) on Debian 13 enables comprehensive support for HP printers, scanners, and multifunction devices. HPLIP provides essential drivers, utilities, and plugins required for full functionality of HP hardware on Linux systems. This comprehensive guide covers multiple installation methods, configuration procedures, troubleshooting techniques, and maintenance practices to ensure optimal performance of your HP devices.

Whether you’re setting up a new HP printer or upgrading your existing installation, this tutorial provides step-by-step instructions for both novice and experienced Linux users. The guide addresses repository-based installations, manual compilation methods, plugin configurations, and advanced setup procedures necessary for complete HP device integration with Debian 13.

What is HPLIP and Why Do You Need It?

Understanding HPLIP’s Core Functions

HPLIP serves as HP’s official Linux solution, supporting over 3,000 HP printer models across various product lines. This sophisticated software suite integrates seamlessly with CUPS (Common UNIX Printing System) for printing operations and SANE for scanning functionality. The architecture consists of open-source drivers complemented by proprietary binary plugins required for advanced features.

The distinction between open-source and proprietary components becomes crucial when dealing with specific HP models. Basic printing functionality operates through open-source drivers, while advanced features like color laser printing, duplex operations, and high-resolution output require proprietary plugins. These plugins contain manufacturer-specific algorithms and color management profiles essential for optimal device performance.

Key Features and Benefits

HPLIP delivers comprehensive functionality including advanced printing options with duplex support, color management systems, and borderless printing capabilities when supported by hardware. Scanning support through SANE integration provides high-resolution scanning with format flexibility and advanced scan options. Multifunction devices benefit from integrated fax functionality, allowing complete communication solutions through single software installation.

Network and Wi-Fi setup capabilities streamline device discovery and automated driver installation processes. GUI tools like hp-toolbox provide intuitive device management, while CLI utilities such as hp-setup and hp-plugin offer scriptable configuration options. Model-specific features include photo tray management, cartridge status monitoring, and enhanced media handling for specialized printing requirements.

System Requirements and Prerequisites

Hardware Requirements

Debian 13 systems require minimum hardware specifications including 512MB RAM for basic HPLIP functionality, with 1GB recommended for GUI applications and scanning operations. Storage requirements include 200MB for basic installation, expanding to 500MB when including all optional components and language packs. Processor requirements remain minimal, with any modern x86_64 architecture supporting full functionality.

Supported HP printer models span inkjet, laser, and multifunction categories manufactured from 2000 onwards. Legacy device support varies, with some older models requiring specific plugin versions or alternative driver solutions. Network-enabled devices require standard Ethernet or Wi-Fi connectivity with protocol support for HP’s discovery mechanisms.

Software Dependencies

Essential packages include CUPS printing system, Python runtime environment, development tools for compilation, and network utilities for device discovery. Repository configuration must include ‘main’ and ‘contrib’ sections, avoiding CD/DVD repositories that may contain outdated packages. Build dependencies encompass GCC compiler suite, development headers for system libraries, and various utility packages required during compilation.

Database dependencies include CUPS development libraries, JPEG libraries for image processing, USB libraries for device communication, and SANE development packages for scanning integration. Network-related dependencies cover Avahi service discovery, DBUS communication framework, and SSL libraries for secure communication protocols.

User Permissions

Installation requires sudo privileges for system-wide package installation and configuration file modifications. Runtime operation necessitates membership in ‘lp’ group for printing access and ‘sys’ group for device communication permissions. Scanner functionality requires additional ‘scanner’ group membership and proper udev rules configuration.

File permission considerations include write access to CUPS configuration directories, temporary file creation permissions, and log file access rights. Network printer setup may require additional firewall configuration and network service permissions depending on security policies.

Pre-Installation Preparation

Updating Your Debian 13 System

Begin system preparation by refreshing package repositories and installing available updates to ensure compatibility with current HPLIP releases:

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade -y
sudo apt autoremove
sudo apt autoclean

Verify system architecture and kernel version compatibility with HPLIP requirements. Check available disk space and ensure adequate storage for installation and temporary files during compilation processes.

Checking Existing HPLIP Installation

Determine current HPLIP installation status and version information using diagnostic commands:

hp-check -t
dpkg -l | grep hplip
systemctl status cups

Document existing configuration settings and printer queues to facilitate restoration if needed. Remove conflicting printer drivers and clear any corrupted configuration files that might interfere with fresh installation.

Removing Conflicting Software

Safely remove existing HPLIP installations and conflicting printer software:

sudo apt remove --purge hplip hplip-data hplip-doc
sudo apt remove --purge printer-driver-foo2zjs
sudo rm -rf /usr/share/hplip/
sudo rm -rf /etc/hp/

Clear CUPS printer queues and restart the printing service to ensure clean configuration state. Verify removal completion and address any remaining configuration fragments.

Method 1: Installing HPLIP from Debian Repository

Using APT Package Manager

Repository installation provides the simplest approach for standard HPLIP deployment on Debian 13 systems. Execute the following commands to install core HPLIP packages and graphical interface components:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install hplip hplip-gui
sudo apt install hplip-data cups-bsd
sudo apt install python3-dbus python3-distutils-extra

Monitor installation progress and address any dependency conflicts that emerge during package resolution. The repository method automatically handles most dependency requirements and integrates properly with system package management.

Additional optional packages enhance functionality for specific use cases:

sudo apt install hplip-doc
sudo apt install sane-utils xsane
sudo apt install system-config-printer

Using Synaptic Package Manager

Graphical installation through Synaptic provides visual package management for users preferring GUI-based approaches. Launch Synaptic Package Manager from applications menu or command line using sudo synaptic. Navigate to package search functionality and enter “hplip” to locate relevant packages.

Select hplip, hplip-gui, and hplip-data packages for installation by marking them in the interface. Review dependency requirements and approve additional package installations as needed. Apply changes to begin installation process and monitor progress through Synaptic’s status indicators.

Verify successful installation using Synaptic’s installed packages view and confirm proper integration with system services through status indicators.

Verifying Repository Installation

Confirm successful HPLIP installation using built-in diagnostic utilities:

hp-check -v
hp-info
sudo hp-setup -i

Test basic functionality by attempting device discovery and configuration verification. Check CUPS integration status and ensure printing system recognizes HPLIP drivers properly.

Generate system information report for troubleshooting purposes:

hp-check -t > hplip_system_report.txt
cat hplip_system_report.txt

Limitations of Repository Version

Repository versions typically lag behind official HP releases by several months, potentially missing support for newest HP printer models. Feature limitations may affect advanced functionality or model-specific optimizations available in current releases. Security updates and bug fixes follow Debian’s release schedule rather than HP’s immediate availability.

Compatibility considerations include plugin version matching requirements and dependency constraints imposed by repository packaging policies. Users requiring cutting-edge features or newest device support should consider manual installation methods for access to latest capabilities.

Method 2: Manual Installation from HP Official Source

Downloading HPLIP from Official Website

Access HP’s official HPLIP download portal to obtain the latest software release. Navigate to developer resources section and locate appropriate installer for Debian-based distributions. Download the .run installer file to a accessible directory:

cd /tmp
wget https://sourceforge.net/projects/hplip/files/hplip/3.24.4/hplip-3.24.4.run
chmod +x hplip-3.24.4.run

Verify download integrity using provided checksums and digital signatures when available. Ensure adequate disk space for installation process and temporary file creation during compilation.

Preparing for Manual Installation

Install essential development tools and dependencies required for HPLIP compilation:

sudo apt install build-essential
sudo apt install libcups2-dev cups-bsd cups-client
sudo apt install libavahi-client-dev libavahi-core-dev
sudo apt install libdbus-1-dev libusb-1.0-0-dev
sudo apt install python3-dev python3-distutils-extra
sudo apt install libjpeg-dev libsnmp-dev

Configure repository access to ‘main’ and ‘contrib’ sections ensuring all required packages remain available during installation process. Disable CD/DVD repositories that might interfere with dependency resolution.

Running the Automatic Installer

Execute the HPLIP installer using appropriate syntax and installation options:

sudo sh hplip-3.24.4.run

Select automatic installation mode when prompted to streamline the process:

• Choose ‘a’ for automatic installation
• Confirm distribution detection as Debian 13
• Accept installation notes and proceed
• Monitor dependency installation progress
• Allow compilation and installation completion

Installation process includes dependency verification, missing package installation, source code compilation, and system integration configuration. Monitor output messages for errors or warnings requiring attention.

Installation Process Walkthrough

The automatic installer performs several distinct phases during HPLIP deployment. Initial phase involves system detection and compatibility verification, ensuring proper platform identification and dependency assessment. Dependency resolution phase downloads and installs required packages from configured repositories.

Compilation phase builds HPLIP components from source code, utilizing system development tools and libraries. This process may require significant time depending on system performance and component selection. Monitor compilation output for errors indicating missing dependencies or configuration problems.

Installation phase integrates compiled components with system directories and services. Configuration file generation ensures proper CUPS integration and device detection capabilities. Final verification confirms successful installation and basic functionality.

Post-Installation Verification

Confirm successful manual installation using comprehensive diagnostic procedures:

hp-check -v
hp-info -d
sudo systemctl restart cups
hp-setup --help

Verify plugin compatibility and installation requirements:

hp-plugin -i
hp-check-plugin

Test device detection and basic configuration capabilities to ensure proper integration with system services and hardware communication protocols.

Installing HPLIP Plugin for Advanced Features

Understanding Plugin Necessity

Certain HP printer models require proprietary plugins to enable full functionality, particularly color laser printers and advanced multifunction devices. These plugins contain manufacturer-specific algorithms, color profiles, and firmware components unavailable in open-source implementations. Plugin requirements vary by model, with inkjet printers typically requiring fewer proprietary components than laser devices.

Plugin functionality enables advanced printing modes including duplex operations, high-resolution output, borderless printing, and specialized media handling. Color management systems within plugins provide accurate color reproduction and professional printing quality essential for graphics and photography applications.

Plugin Installation Methods

Install plugins using hp-plugin utility with interactive or automated approaches:

sudo hp-plugin

Select installation options including automatic download, manual installation, or offline installation for air-gapped systems. Interactive mode provides step-by-step guidance through plugin selection and verification processes.

Alternative installation methods include GUI-based setup through hp-setup utility:

sudo hp-setup

Choose device configuration option and follow plugin installation prompts when detected as required for specific printer model functionality.

Version Compatibility Importance

HPLIP and plugin versions must match exactly to ensure proper functionality and avoid compatibility issues. Version mismatches result in printing errors, reduced functionality, or complete device communication failure. Verify version compatibility before installation:

hp-info | grep -i version
hp-plugin -v

Maintain version synchronization during updates by upgrading both HPLIP software and associated plugins simultaneously. Document version information for troubleshooting and maintenance purposes.

Security Considerations

Plugin installation involves proprietary binary components requiring careful security evaluation. Verify plugin authenticity through digital signature checking and official source validation. HP provides cryptographic signatures for plugin verification ensuring component integrity and authenticity.

Avoid unofficial plugin sources or modified components that may contain malware or compromise system security. Implement network security measures when downloading plugins, including secure connection protocols and source verification procedures.

Configuring Your HP Printer

Using hp-setup Command

The hp-setup utility provides comprehensive printer configuration capabilities through both interactive and automated modes. Launch configuration process using command-line interface:

sudo hp-setup

Interactive mode guides users through device discovery, connection method selection, and driver configuration procedures. Automatic mode streamlines configuration for standard setups with minimal user intervention required.

Command-line options enable scripted configuration and batch printer setup:

sudo hp-setup -i  # Interactive mode
sudo hp-setup -a  # Automatic mode
sudo hp-setup -g  # GUI mode

Network Printer Configuration

Network-connected HP printers require specific configuration procedures for proper integration with Debian 13 systems. Begin network printer setup by ensuring device connectivity and network accessibility:

ping [printer_ip_address]
nmap -p 9100,631 [printer_ip_address]

Configure network printer using hp-setup with network discovery options:

sudo hp-setup -n

Select appropriate connection protocol (IPP, Socket, LPD) based on printer capabilities and network configuration. Configure printer queue settings including duplex options, paper sizes, and quality preferences.

Wireless printer setup requires additional network security configuration including WPA/WPA2 credentials and network profile management. Utilize hp-wificonfig utility for wireless-specific configuration requirements.

USB Printer Configuration

USB-connected HP printers provide simpler configuration procedures with automatic device detection capabilities. Ensure proper USB connection and device recognition:

lsusb | grep -i hewlett
dmesg | tail -n 20

Configure USB printer using hp-setup with automatic device detection:

sudo hp-setup -u

Address USB permission issues by configuring udev rules and user group membership:

sudo usermod -a -G lp $USER
sudo udevadm control --reload-rules

CUPS Integration

CUPS integration enables printer management through web-based interface and command-line utilities. Access CUPS administration interface through web browser:

http://localhost:631

Configure printer queues, manage print jobs, and adjust printing preferences through CUPS interface. Command-line printer management utilizes standard CUPS utilities:

lpstat -p  # List configured printers
lpadmin -p [printer_name] -E  # Enable printer queue
lpq  # View print queue status

Testing Print Functionality

Verify printer configuration and functionality using comprehensive testing procedures:

hp-testpage -p [printer_name]
lp /etc/passwd  # Test basic printing
hp-print -p [printer_name] testfile.pdf

Test advanced features including duplex printing, color output, and various paper sizes to ensure complete functionality. Generate test reports documenting printer capabilities and performance characteristics.

Configuring Scanning Capabilities

SANE Integration Setup

HPLIP integrates with SANE (Scanner Access Now Easy) framework to provide comprehensive scanning functionality for HP multifunction devices. Configure SANE backend for HP scanner support:

sudo sane-find-scanner
scanimage -L

Verify HP scanner detection and driver loading through SANE diagnostic utilities. Address permission issues by configuring scanner group membership:

sudo usermod -a -G scanner $USER

Configure SANE daemon for network scanner access when required:

sudo systemctl enable saned
sudo systemctl start saned

Using HP Scanning Tools

HPLIP provides specialized scanning utilities optimized for HP devices and integration with system scanning frameworks. Utilize hp-scan command-line utility for basic scanning operations:

hp-scan -d [device_uri]
hp-scan --output=scan.pdf --format=pdf
hp-scan --resolution=300 --mode=color

GUI scanning applications provide user-friendly interfaces for interactive scanning operations. Launch HP scanning interface through applications menu or command line:

hp-toolbox

Configure scanning preferences including resolution settings, color modes, file formats, and output destinations through scanning interface options.

Network Scanner Configuration

Network-attached HP multifunction devices require specific configuration for scanning functionality across network connections. Configure network scanner access using device URI and authentication credentials:

hp-makeuri [ip_address]
hp-scan -d "hp:/net/[model]?ip=[ip_address]"

Address firewall configuration requirements for scanner communication protocols. Configure SANE network scanning daemon for multi-user scanner access:

sudo nano /etc/sane.d/saned.conf

Add authorized network addresses and configure service startup for automatic scanner availability.

Advanced Configuration Options

Fax Setup for Multifunction Devices

HP multifunction devices with fax capabilities require specialized configuration for telephone line integration and fax queue management. Configure fax functionality using hp-setup with fax-specific options:

sudo hp-setup -f

Configure telephone line settings including dialing prefixes, call waiting disabling, and transmission parameters. Set up fax queue management through CUPS interface with fax-specific print queue configuration.

Test fax functionality using built-in utilities:

hp-sendfax -d [fax_number] document.pdf
hp-fab  # Fax address book management

Custom PPD File Selection

PostScript Printer Description (PPD) files define printer capabilities and configuration options available to applications and print systems. Select optimal PPD files for specific printer models to maximize functionality and performance:

hp-makeppd [printer_model]
sudo lpadmin -p [printer_name] -P /usr/share/ppd/HP/[model].ppd

Custom PPD selection enables access to manufacturer-specific features unavailable in generic printer drivers. Configure advanced printing options including specialty paper handling, finishing options, and quality settings through PPD-defined parameters.

Performance Optimization

Optimize HPLIP performance through configuration adjustments and system tuning procedures. Configure memory allocation for improved printing performance with large documents:

sudo nano /etc/cups/cupsd.conf

Adjust MaxJobs, MaxJobsPerPrinter, and other performance-related parameters based on system capabilities and usage patterns. Configure print queue priorities and job scheduling to optimize throughput in multi-user environments.

Monitor system resource utilization during printing operations and adjust configuration parameters to prevent resource exhaustion and maintain system responsiveness.

Firewall and Network Security

Network printer configurations require careful firewall management to balance security requirements with functionality needs. Configure firewall rules for HPLIP network services:

sudo ufw allow 631/tcp  # CUPS
sudo ufw allow 9100/tcp  # HP JetDirect
sudo ufw allow 8080/tcp  # HP Web Services

Implement network segmentation strategies to isolate printer traffic and reduce security exposure. Configure encrypted communication protocols when supported by hardware and network infrastructure.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Plugin Installation Problems

Plugin installation failures commonly result from network connectivity issues, version mismatches, or dependency problems. Diagnose plugin installation issues using comprehensive error analysis:

hp-plugin -d  # Debug mode installation
hp-check-plugin -v
tail -f /var/log/hp/hplip.log

Address network connectivity issues by configuring proxy settings and verifying internet access during plugin download processes. Resolve version compatibility problems by updating HPLIP software before plugin installation attempts.

Manual plugin installation provides alternative approaches when automatic installation fails:

hp-plugin --path=/path/to/plugin.run

Printer Detection Issues

Printer detection problems affect both USB and network-connected devices, requiring systematic diagnostic approaches. USB printer detection issues often involve permission problems or driver conflicts:

lsusb -v | grep -A 5 -B 5 Hewlett
sudo dmesg | grep usb
sudo hp-setup -g --debug

Network printer detection requires network connectivity verification and service discovery troubleshooting:

ping [printer_ip]
telnet [printer_ip] 9100
avahi-browse -a

Address permission issues through group membership configuration and udev rule management. Resolve driver conflicts by removing conflicting software and clearing configuration caches.

Print Quality Problems

Print quality issues encompass various problems including color accuracy, resolution defects, and media handling errors. Diagnose print quality problems using built-in diagnostic tools:

hp-clean -d [device_uri]
hp-align -d [device_uri]
hp-colorcal -d [device_uri]

PPD file selection significantly impacts print quality and available features. Verify optimal PPD file selection for specific printer models:

hp-makeppd [printer_model]
lpstat -p -d

Address color management issues through proper profile installation and calibration procedures specific to printer model and intended usage.

Permission and Access Errors

User permission problems prevent proper device access and functionality utilization. Configure appropriate group memberships for printing and scanning operations:

sudo usermod -a -G lp,dialout,scanner $USER
groups $USER  # Verify group membership

CUPS access restrictions may prevent printer configuration and job management. Configure CUPS access control through administrative interface:

sudo cupsctl --remote-admin --remote-any --share-printers

Address file permission issues affecting configuration files and log access:

sudo chmod 644 /etc/hp/hplip.conf
sudo chown root:lp /var/log/hp/

Network Connectivity Problems

Network printer connectivity issues require systematic network troubleshooting and configuration verification. Diagnose network connectivity using standard networking tools:

ping -c 4 [printer_ip]
traceroute [printer_ip]
nmap -p 9100,631,8080 [printer_ip]

Firewall configuration may block required printer communication ports. Configure firewall rules for HP printer protocols:

sudo iptables -A INPUT -p tcp --dport 631 -j ACCEPT
sudo iptables -A OUTPUT -p tcp --dport 9100 -j ACCEPT

DHCP lease issues may cause IP address changes affecting printer connectivity. Configure static IP addresses or DHCP reservations for consistent printer accessibility.

Log Analysis and Debugging

HPLIP maintains comprehensive logging for troubleshooting and diagnostic purposes. Enable debug logging for detailed error analysis:

sudo hp-logcapture
tail -f /var/log/hp/hplip.log
journalctl -u cups.service -f

Log file analysis reveals communication errors, driver problems, and configuration issues affecting printer functionality. Configure log rotation to prevent excessive disk space consumption:

sudo nano /etc/logrotate.d/hplip

System log integration provides additional diagnostic information for complex troubleshooting scenarios:

sudo dmesg | grep -i hp
sudo journalctl -xe | grep -i print

Maintaining Your HPLIP Installation

Regular Updates

HPLIP maintenance requires regular updates for security patches, bug fixes, and new device support. Repository installations utilize standard package management for updates:

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade hplip hplip-gui hplip-data

Manual installations require periodic checking for new releases and manual update procedures. Monitor HP’s official channels for security advisories and critical updates affecting installation security or functionality.

Plugin updates must accompany HPLIP software updates to maintain version compatibility:

hp-plugin --check-update
sudo hp-plugin --update

Backup and Restore Configuration

Configuration backup prevents data loss during system upgrades or hardware changes. Create comprehensive backups of HPLIP configuration:

sudo tar -czf hplip-backup.tar.gz /etc/hp/ /etc/cups/printers.conf
sudo cp -r /var/lib/hp/ ~/hplip-config-backup/

Document printer queue configurations and custom settings for restoration procedures:

lpstat -p > printer-queues-backup.txt
hp-info > hplip-devices-backup.txt

Restore procedures involve configuration file replacement and service restart:

sudo tar -xzf hplip-backup.tar.gz -C /
sudo systemctl restart cups
sudo hp-setup -r  # Reconfigure devices

Performance Monitoring

Monitor HPLIP performance through system resource utilization and service status checking. Configure monitoring scripts for automated performance tracking:

#!/bin/bash
echo "HPLIP Service Status:"
systemctl status hplip-printer@.service
echo "CUPS Status:"
systemctl status cups
echo "Print Queue Status:"
lpstat -p

Implement log monitoring for error detection and performance degradation identification:

sudo logwatch --service hplip --range yesterday

Security Best Practices

Plugin Verification

Plugin authenticity verification prevents malware installation and ensures component integrity. Verify plugin digital signatures during installation:

hp-plugin --verify
gpg --verify plugin.run.asc plugin.run

Download plugins exclusively from official HP sources and avoid third-party repositories or unofficial modifications. Implement checksum verification for additional security assurance:

sha256sum plugin.run

Network Security

Network printer security requires proper authentication configuration and communication encryption. Configure printer access controls through device management interfaces and implement user authentication when supported.

Network segmentation isolates printer traffic from critical network resources and reduces security exposure. Configure VLANs or separate network segments for printer communications:

sudo ip route add [printer_network]/24 via [gateway_ip]

Monitor network traffic for unusual printer communication patterns indicating potential security issues:

sudo tcpdump -i eth0 host [printer_ip]

Regular Security Updates

Security update management prevents exploitation of known vulnerabilities in HPLIP software and related components. Subscribe to HP security advisories and Debian security announcements for timely update notification.

Implement automated security updates for critical components while maintaining compatibility with existing configurations:

sudo unattended-upgrade --dry-run
sudo apt-mark hold hplip  # Prevent unwanted updates when needed

Conduct periodic security assessments of printer network exposure and access controls to maintain security posture effectiveness.

Alternative Solutions and Considerations

Generic Printer Drivers

Alternative driver solutions may provide adequate functionality for specific HP printer models without requiring proprietary components. Foomatic and foo2zjs drivers support various HP LaserJet models through open-source implementations:

sudo apt install printer-driver-foo2zjs
sudo apt install foomatic-db foomatic-filters

Generic PostScript drivers enable basic printing functionality for PostScript-compatible HP printers without specialized software requirements. Evaluate alternative solutions based on specific functionality requirements and security policies.

Printer-Specific Considerations

Different HP printer series exhibit varying compatibility and functionality requirements with HPLIP software. Inkjet printer series typically require fewer proprietary components compared to laser printer models with advanced finishing capabilities.

Multifunction devices demand comprehensive software support for printing, scanning, and fax functionality integration. Research specific model requirements and community feedback before selecting installation approaches for optimal compatibility and performance.

Legacy printer models may require specific HPLIP versions or alternative driver solutions for continued functionality with modern Linux distributions. Document compatibility requirements and maintain appropriate software versions for legacy device support.

Congratulations! You have successfully installed HPLIP. Thanks for using this tutorial for installing the HPLIP (HP Linux Imaging and Printing) on the Debian 13 “Trixie” system. For additional help or useful information, we recommend you check the official HPLIP website.