hp-plugin

hp-plugin [-i | --interactive] [-u | --unattended] [-p | --plugin=] [-d | --download-url=] [-v | --version=] [-t | --target=] [-h | --help] [-g | --gui] [-s | --silent] [-l | --log-file=] [--usage] [--check] [--clean=] [--hpux] [--use-dns-resolv] [--confirm-install] [--install-as-user]

-i, --interactive
    Run in interactive mode, prompting the user for input.

-u, --unattended
    Run in unattended mode, without user interaction. Assumes default answers.

-p, --plugin=
    Specify the URL of the plugin to download and install.

-d, --download-url=
    Specify the download URL for the plugin.

-v, --version=
    Specify the version of the plugin to install.

-t, --target=
    Specify the target directory for plugin installation.
Defaults to /usr/share/hplip/data/plugins.

-h, --help
    Display help message and exit.

-g, --gui
    Run in graphical mode.

-s, --silent
    Run in silent mode.

-l, --log-file=
    Specify the log file.

--usage
    Display basic usage information.

--check
    Check if the plugin is already installed.

--clean=
    Remove existing plugin files from the specified directory.

--hpux
    Force HPUX mode (used for HPUX systems).

--use-dns-resolv
    Force the use of DNS for host name resolution.

--confirm-install
    Confirm installation of the plugin.

--install-as-user
    Installs plugin in User account and not in system account.

The `hp-plugin` command is a tool used in the HP Linux Imaging and Printing (HPLIP) system to manage printer driver plugins. Many HP printers, especially those with advanced features, require proprietary plugins to be downloaded and installed to fully function within the Linux environment. `hp-plugin` automates this process, handling the download, installation, and management of these plugins. It typically interfaces with HP's servers to check for required plugins based on the connected printer model.

The command addresses situations where open-source drivers alone are insufficient. It simplifies the user experience by handling complex dependencies. The user may be prompted for a password during plugin installation, as root privileges are often needed to install the files into the system directories. Proper functioning of the printer is often entirely dependent on these plugins, making `hp-plugin` a crucial utility for HP printer users on Linux.

Plugin installation often requires root privileges. Incorrect plugin versions can lead to printer malfunction. Ensure the plugin is compatible with the specific printer model and HPLIP version.

If plugin installation fails, check the HPLIP troubleshooting guide. Ensure that dependencies are met, and the correct plugin version is used. Examine the log file specified with `-l` for detailed error messages. Problems accessing HP servers can occur if firewall rules are too restrictive.

The `hp-plugin` command is part of the HPLIP project, which aims to provide a comprehensive printing and imaging solution for HP devices on Linux. It evolved as a solution to the problem of proprietary printer functionalities that could not be fully supported by open-source drivers alone. The command has been improved and updated over time to support a wider range of HP printers and to streamline the plugin installation process.

hp-setup(1), hp-toolbox(1), hplip(7)