Microsoft is moving away from legacy printer drivers in favor of Windows Protected Print Mode, or WPP. This mode uses the Windows modern print stack, which offers multiple benefits, including better security, a more consistent printing experience across architectures, and no need to manage print drivers. WPP works with Mopria-certified printers, and Microsoft now wants all IT admins to use WPP instead of legacy drivers. To make it easier for everyone to understand their printer architecture, Microsoft is adding a new compatibility indicator to Windows 11.
The latest non-security update for Windows 11 introduced a new icon in the Printers & Scanners section in the Settings app. Now, if your computer is connected to a compatible printer, Windows Settings will show an icon with a shield and a green check mark, indicating that the printer supports Windows Protected Print mode and IPP capabilities.
Microsoft is phasing out third-party printer drivers from Windows Update. The company no longer accepts new drivers for distribution via Windows Update, although it is still possible to update existing drivers on a case-by-case basis, such as when a printer cannot be Mopria-certified or when it targets Windows 10 or older.
This created confusion among customers, leading many to believe that old printers would soon stop working on Windows 11. Microsoft had to step in and clarify the misunderstanding. The company reassured that all Windows 11-compatible printers would continue operating without issues, requiring no action from the end user.
Switching to Windows Protected Print Mode could be a major change for IT Admins, so Microsoft has documentation describing all the details about moving to a modern printing stack, including info on printing to OneNote, XPS, legacy drivers, and more.
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