Abstract:
Microsoft is currently gradually phasing out traditional third-party printer drivers in the Windows 11 operating system and instead adopting a unified basic printing architecture built into the system. This underlying change will directly affect the compatibility of some old office printing equipment in future system environments.
Microsoft’s adjustment is mainly aimed at traditional v3 and v4 version printer drivers. For a long time, users have needed to install separate drivers provided by the hardware manufacturer when connecting to a printer.
Microsoft hopes to make Windows' printing services more standardized, secure and easy to maintain through the integration of the system's underlying architecture.
The vision for the future is to achieve true plug-and-play, where certified printing devices can work directly without manual intervention.
Since July 1 this year, Windows has adjusted the driver sorting rules. Compatible devices will give priority to Microsoft's built-in Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) driver. Existing drivers can continue to receive updates on a case-by-case basis.
According to the plan, the final phase will arrive on July 1, 2027. At that time, third-party driver updates will be limited to security fixes. Users can still manually install driver packages provided by the manufacturer, provided that the manufacturer is willing to continue to support the old driver mode.
At the same time, Microsoft is introducing Windows Protected Print Mode. When this mode is turned on, Windows will block third-party printer drivers and remove printers that rely on these drivers.
Compatible Mopria printers can be reinstalled through Windows Ready Print, while unsupported models cannot be used until the user turns off the mode.
Microsoft says this feature will eventually become the default, but has not yet announced a date.
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