Error 676 is not a hardware failure. It is a deliberate software lock introduced in firmware versions after 2018. When you install a refilled, remanufactured, or compatible toner cartridge, the printer checks the chip’s signature against a blacklist. If the chip is rejected, the printer triggers:
Even genuine Samsung cartridges can trigger this if their chip is old or has been reset. The only permanent solutions are:
The "676 link" error on Samsung ML-2165 and ML-2168 printers is a fixable software lock, not a death sentence for your device. By downgrading your firmware or using a chip reset utility, you can bypass Samsung’s toner restrictions and save hundreds of dollars on third-party cartridges.
Remember: Once fixed, never update your firmware again. Your printer will work for years using $10 refill toner instead of $70 genuine cartridges.
Need more help? Leave a comment below with your exact firmware version and the error message you see. The community can provide specific file links (subject to forum rules).
If you're dealing with "Toner Empty" or "Replace Toner" errors on your Samsung ML-2165
, a firmware fix (often called "resoftare") is a popular way to bypass the restrictive toner chip. By applying a custom firmware reset, you can use refilled cartridges without needing a new chip every time, essentially turning your printer into a "chipless" machine. Prerequisites: What You’ll Need Before Starting
To create a custom firmware fix for your specific printer, you must first gather three unique identifiers from your device:
Serial Number (SN): The 15-digit alphanumeric code unique to your machine.
Firmware Version: The specific software version currently running on the printer (e.g., V3.00.01.05).
CRUM Number: The unique 11-digit serial number of the chip currently in your toner cartridge. How to Print the Required Reports Error 676 is not a hardware failure
You can get this information directly from your printer by holding the PRINT SCREEN / WPS button (located above the power button):
Configuration Report: Hold the button for about 10 seconds until the LED flashes once, then release. This report contains the Serial Number and Firmware Version.
Supplies Information Report: Hold the button again for about 15 seconds until the LED stays solid green, then release. This report displays the CRUM series number. The Firmware Reset Process (Step-by-Step)
Once you have obtained the fix file (typically an .hd or .exe file generated for your specific SN and CRUM), follow these steps to apply it: Connect the Printer: Connect your Samsung ML-2165
to your computer via a stable USB cable and ensure it is powered on.
Enter Download Mode (Forced Mode): If the standard update doesn't work, turn the printer OFF, then press and hold the Print Screen and Power buttons simultaneously for a few seconds before releasing both.
Run the Fix: Drag and drop the .hd firmware file onto the usbprns2.exe application (often provided with the fix).
Wait for Reboot: The printer's LEDs will flash during the update. Do not turn off the printer or unplug the cable until it automatically reboots (usually takes 1–2 minutes).
Remove or Tape the Chip: After the reboot, you must remove the toner chip from the cartridge or cover it with non-conductive tape. This prevents the printer from reading the old "empty" chip data again. Alternative: Manual Hardware Reset
If you're not ready to modify the firmware, you can try a simpler hardware reset to clear minor errors: Even genuine Samsung cartridges can trigger this if
Simple Reset: With the printer on, hold the Stop/Cancel button for 10–15 seconds until the LEDs flash, then restart the device.
Factory Reset: Some users report success by turning the printer off, unplugging it for 10 minutes, and then restarting it with the toner re-seated.
Note: Applying unofficial firmware usually voids your manufacturer's warranty. Always ensure you are using a fix file generated specifically for your machine's Serial and CRUM numbers to avoid "bricking" the printer.
Search using exact strings:
If your printer has not been updated recently, you may simply need to reset the chip on your toner cartridge.
There is a third-party utility known colloquially as the "Samsung 676 Link Reset Tool" or "ML-2165 Chip Reset Utility." This software bypasses the need for a full firmware downgrade.
The fix firmware ml2165 ml2168 chip reset printer samsung 676 link process is not just a myth. Thousands of Samsung printer owners have successfully downgraded their firmware, reset their toner chips, and restored full printing functionality without buying expensive new cartridges.
Final checklist:
If you are still searching for the working download link, focus on tech forums from 2018–2020 (before HP scrubbed them). Use the exact keywords above, and avoid “firmware update tools” that are actually viruses. Stick to community-verified sources.
Save this guide – and save your printer from the e-waste pile. The "676 link" error on Samsung ML-2165 and
Disclaimer: Modifying printer firmware may void warranties. This guide is for educational purposes. Use at your own risk.
To fix the toner chip restriction on a Samsung ML-2165 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. or
, users often apply a "fix firmware" that allows the printer to operate without a working chip. This is particularly common for those who want to refill their existing cartridges. Fix Firmware Procedure Applying a fix firmware typically involves these steps:
Identify Your Version: To ensure compatibility, you must know your printer's Serial Number, CRUM Number, and current firmware version. You can find these by holding the Print Screen/WPS button for about 10 seconds to print a configuration report.
Download the Fix: Use a specialized tool or service to generate a chipless firmware file tailored to your specific printer data. Install the Firmware: Connect the printer via USB.
Drag the firmware file (often an .hd file) onto the provided executable program (usbprns2.exe or similar). Wait for the printer to program (1-2 minutes) and reboot.
Final Step: Once updated, you must remove or cover the toner chip with tape so the printer ignores it entirely. Hardware Chip Resets
If you prefer not to modify the firmware, you can use hardware methods:
Chip Resetter Tool: A handheld device that physically touches the chip contacts to reset the page counter to 100%.
Replacement Chips: Inexpensive third-party chips can be purchased and installed on the cartridge to trick the printer into seeing it as new.
Do you want a short (300–400 words) punchy review, a detailed long-form review (~900–1,200 words) with sections and pros/cons table, or a mid-length (600–800 words) review?
If you just want to print, buy a replacement chip (Method 1). It is safer and requires no technical skills. If you plan to use this printer for years and want to save money on chips, use the Firmware Fix (Method 2).