hp-unload

hp-unload

The hp-unload command is a utility designed to remove (unload) HP peripheral drivers from the currently running Linux kernel. This is useful when you need to free up system resources, troubleshoot driver-related issues, or temporarily disable HP device support. The command specifically targets drivers associated with HP printers, scanners, and related peripherals. It aims to provide a clean and controlled way to detach these drivers without requiring a full system reboot.

Typically, hp-unload is used in conjunction with the hp-load command (which loads the drivers initially) for managing HP device support. However, you can use `rmmod` to unload the same modules with fine grain control. When run, hp-unload identifies the relevant HP drivers currently loaded in the kernel and unloads them using standard module management tools. It is vital to exercise caution when using this command, as unloading necessary drivers can result in the malfunctioning of your HP devices.

Unloading essential HP drivers may cause HP devices to stop functioning. Always ensure you understand the consequences before executing this command.

In modern Linux distributions, driver management is largely automated. It may not always be necessary to manually load or unload drivers. Modern `udev` rules manage much of this automatically.

hp-unload is most useful in situations where you need to isolate a potential software problem involving HP drivers, or in very specific embedded environments.

The hp-unload command was developed as part of the HP Linux Imaging and Printing (HPLIP) project. Its purpose is to provide a user-friendly method for managing HP device drivers, specifically their loading and unloading. It often accompanies hp-load, which is used to load the same drivers.

hp-load(8), rmmod(8), modprobe(8)