Microsoft is transitioning Windows to a unified printing protocol, replacing the traditional model that required individual drivers for each device. This change aims to standardize printing, improve security, and simplify maintenance by ensuring certified printers work automatically upon connection.
The shift primarily affects legacy printers that lack support for the Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) or the Mopria standard. While Microsoft began this transition on January 15, 2026, by adopting IPP, it also ceased distributing classic driver updates via Windows Update for Windows 11 and Windows Server 2025.
As of July 2026, Windows no longer automatically installs drivers for printers that support IPP. The final phase of this transition is scheduled for July 1, 2027, when third-party driver updates will be restricted to security patches only, though manual installation will remain an option if manufacturers continue to provide support.
The new policy impacts both standard printers and multifunctional devices. Users are advised to check with manufacturers to confirm if their hardware supports IPP or Mopria. Alternative operating systems, such as macOS and Linux, currently maintain support for older printing hardware.
