hp-plugin

hp-plugin [-i|--interactive] [-g|--gui] [-d|--daemon] [-r|--replace] [-u|--uninstall] [-h|--help] [-v|--version]

-h, --help
    Display command usage help and exit

-v, --version
    Show HPLIP version and exit

-i, --interactive
    Interactive terminal mode (default)

-g, --gui
    Launch graphical user interface (requires Qt)

-d, --daemon
    Run in background daemon mode (minimal output)

-r, --replace
    Force download and replace existing plugin

-u, --uninstall
    Remove installed plugin

The hp-plugin command is part of the HPLIP (HP Linux Imaging and Printing) software suite. It downloads and installs proprietary binary plugins required for full functionality on certain HP printers and multifunction devices. While HPLIP offers open-source drivers for most models, some features like advanced printing, faxing, or scanning demand this closed-source plugin due to patented technologies or hardware specifics.

Running hp-plugin connects to HP servers to fetch the latest plugin, verifies its integrity, prompts for EULA acceptance, and installs it system-wide. This enables complete device support post-installation. It's essential for users of proprietary-dependent HP hardware on Linux.

The tool supports multiple modes: interactive (default, terminal-based prompts), GUI (Qt-based interface), daemon (background, silent), and options for replacement or uninstallation. Installation typically requires root privileges and internet access.

Requires internet access and root privileges (sudo). Accepts HP EULA automatically in non-interactive modes. May fail behind proxies/firewalls; configure via hplip.conf. Plugin is model-specific; not all HP devices need it. Distro package managers may conflict.

Installation requires agreeing to HP's proprietary license; review during interactive install.

Run hp-setup afterward to configure printers fully.

Developed by HP as part of HPLIP (launched 2005). Plugins introduced ~2008 to support proprietary features amid open-source licensing challenges. Maintained in HPLIP 3.x releases; usage peaked with older inkjets, declining with fully open-source newer models.

hp-setup(1), hp(1), hp-probe(1), hplip-install(1)