Microsoft Phased Out Third-Party Printer Drivers

The company shifted toward standardized IPP drivers to improve security and block potential driver-based malware.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Remote Work

Isometric editorial illustration featuring stacked minimalist paper trays and a cylindrical ink component, representing standardized digital printing security protocols. — Microsoft initiated a transition on July 1, 2026, to replace third-party printer drivers with standardized Internet Printing Protocol drivers to improve system security. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Microsoft began a transition on July 1, 2026, to prioritize built-in Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) drivers over third-party alternatives. This change aligns with the broader implementation of Windows Protected Print Mode, which restricts the use of third-party software.

Why it matters

By standardizing printer driver support through Windows Ready Print, Microsoft aims to strengthen Windows against printer driver malware. This infrastructure update mandates that hardware must be compliant with new communication standards to function under the company's emerging security protocols.

Microsoft halted the publication of new printer drivers through Windows Update beginning January 15, 2026. The company currently allows security fixes for existing drivers despite the ongoing transition to built-in IPP solutions.

The players

Microsoft

Microsoft is a multinational technology corporation that develops the Windows operating system and its associated hardware support infrastructure.

The details

Windows Protected Print Mode blocks third-party drivers by default, rendering non-compliant printers non-functional unless a user manually overrides the setting. Organizations have the capability to enforce this security mode across their systems to ensure standardized hardware communication.

January 15, 2026: New printer drivers were blocked from Windows Update.
July 1, 2026: Windows began prioritizing built-in IPP drivers.
July 1, 2027: Further restrictions on third-party driver updates will be enforced.
2027: Windows Protected Print Mode is expected to become the default setting.

Market Landscape

The adoption of Windows Ready Print marks a fundamental shift in how the operating system handles peripheral communication by prioritizing standardized protocols over proprietary third-party software. This move effectively consolidates control over printer interactions, forcing hardware manufacturers to align with Microsoft's internal security frameworks.

Users may encounter compatibility issues with older printers if those devices do not support standardized IPP protocols when Windows Protected Print Mode is enabled. Home and business users should verify printer compliance before relying on custom third-party drivers for daily operations.

The takeaway

Users can manually disable Windows Protected Print Mode if their current printing hardware loses functionality under the new system. It is recommended that organizations transition to compliant hardware to maintain security standards as Microsoft prepares to make this mode the default setting.