You cannot. Once a Samsung ML 2160 firmware update has been applied—especially one that enforces genuine toner—there is no official way to downgrade. HP signs the firmware cryptographically. Attempting to flash an older version will result in a “Signature Mismatch” error.
Your only options if you are locked out of third-party toner:
Common issues resolved by past ML-2160 firmware updates include:
Often, what users think requires a firmware update is actually a driver or software issue. Before you update firmware, try: samsung ml 2160 firmware update
HP has removed many independent firmware tools, consolidating them into the HP Smart ecosystem. However, for legacy Samsung devices like the ML 2160, you may still find the stand-alone Samsung Printer Diagnostics tool or a direct .hif file.
Method 1: Using the Samsung Printer Diagnostics Tool (Recommended for USB)
Method 2: Manual Update via USB Direct (No Tool) You cannot
If the diagnostics tool fails, you can use a direct USB command method (more technical).
Samsung (and now HP, which acquired Samsung’s printer business in 2017) doesn’t release firmware updates frequently for legacy devices like the ML 2160. However, when they do, the updates typically address one of three critical areas:
| Problem | Likely fix | |--------|-------------| | “Printer not found” | Reinstall driver first, then try firmware. | | Update stuck at 0% | Try a different USB cable (under 3 ft). | | Error after reboot | Power cycle printer (unplug 30 sec). | | No firmware file for my OS | Use Windows 7/8 compatibility mode. | Method 2: Manual Update via USB Direct (No
Before proceeding with the firmware update:
Would you like help finding the exact latest firmware version number for the ML-2160, or troubleshooting a specific error during the update?