Microsoft is moving forward with a major overhaul of its printing architecture, with January 2026 marking the beginning of a phased transition that will gradually eliminate support for legacy printer drivers in Windows 11.
The change is part of the company’s broader effort to modernise printing through the Internet Printing Protocol (IPP), built-in universal drivers and app-based support delivered via the Microsoft Store.
Key changes begin in 2026
Under the new roadmap, older V3 and V4 printer drivers will no longer be distributed through Windows Update. Starting January 15, 2026, Windows 11 and Windows Server 2025 will stop accepting new third-party printer driver releases via Windows Update, with only exceptional cases handled individually.
Further changes are scheduled for the following years:
- July 1, 2026: Windows will prioritise the built-in IPP class driver when selecting printer drivers.
- July 1, 2027: Third-party driver updates will be restricted entirely, except for critical security fixes.
Microsoft has warned that in some scenarios, printers that rely exclusively on legacy drivers may fail to install or could lose functionality after system updates.
Shift toward a modern printing model
The new approach centres on three components: IPP connectivity, the built-in IPP class driver included with Windows, and Print Support Apps, which manufacturers can distribute through the Microsoft Store instead of traditional driver packages.
By standardising the printing stack, Microsoft aims to simplify system maintenance, improve reliability and reduce long-standing security risks associated with the Windows printing subsystem.
Security and stability concerns behind the move
Printing has historically been a weak point in Windows security, most notably due to vulnerabilities in the Print Spooler service. Reducing dependence on complex, vendor-specific drivers is intended to create a more predictable environment and limit potential attack surfaces.
The transition also reduces the operational burden of maintaining thousands of hardware-specific drivers across Windows updates.
Who may be affected
The impact is expected to be most significant for organisations and users relying on older or specialised hardware, including:
- Small and medium businesses and educational institutions using long-life enterprise printers
- Users of discontinued printer models that require proprietary drivers
- IT administrators managing environments that enforce manual driver installations rather than universal standards
Large office devices from manufacturers such as HP, Lexmark or Kyocera may continue operating mechanically for years, but software compatibility could become a concern if modern support is not available.
Microsoft has advised users and organisations to contact their printer manufacturers to confirm whether IPP support or updated solutions are available. Where support is limited, migrating to newer printing hardware or modern driver models before the deadlines may help avoid disruptions.
With the first phase already underway, the company’s message is clear: legacy printing support is entering its final years, and the shift to a standardised, service-based model is no longer optional.
