It's a long install not a workaround. While installing it says it is actually installing software for the HP 4800 series but somehow they tweak it to recognize individual HP products. It installs a new version of HP Director, HP Photosmart Premier, HP Document Viewer & HP Solution Center.
After complete installation, when one clicks on HP Director it says HP Solution Center and then a control panel appear upgraded from the old director with your make and model of HP device.
So yes, it is a real fix. I'm using an HP All-In-One and IE7 and I tested it and it works fine. To tell the truth, I think HP is using this to download the latest versions of their stuff to users, because my original equipment did not come with Document viewer, or HP Photosmart Premier. That's why its such a bloated "fix" - it's actually more of a full software suite "replacement".
Geek Speak » in reply to is this a real fix?
Yes.