Microsoft is changing how it supports printers on Windows, and this shift could affect millions of users and organisations around the world. Starting January 15, 2026, Microsoft stopped distributing new legacy printer drivers through Windows Update for Windows 11 and Windows Server 2025 and later, pushing users and manufacturers toward modern printing standards and more secure driver models. This change marks a major shift in how printing will work on Windows machines in the future and signals a long‑term strategy to simplify printing and improve device security.
The new approach may seem technical, but its effects will ripple across home offices, businesses, schools and government networks that depend on older printers. Experts say this move could improve system stability while also forcing users to rethink how they manage printing hardware.
What Microsoft Changed and Why It Matters
Microsoft’s latest change means new legacy drivers using the old V3 and V4 models will no longer be published through Windows Update. These legacy drivers have been the backbone of printer support for years, enabling hardware from dozens of manufacturers to work seamlessly on Windows systems.
The decision is part of a broader plan first announced in 2023, aimed at steering the Windows printing ecosystem toward modern standards that rely on the Microsoft Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) Class Driver and Mopria‑certified compatibility. This IPP class driver has been part of Windows since version 10 21H2, allowing printers and multifunction devices to work without needing separate manufacturer‑specific drivers.
Microsoft says that this transition will help improve security, reduce the complexity of driver management, and deliver more reliable system updates. Legacy drivers have long been a source of issues, including past vulnerabilities such as the infamous PrintNightmare exploit that affected the Windows print spooler. By reducing reliance on third‑party kernel drivers, Microsoft hopes to lower the risk of such security problems in the future.
Key Dates in the Printer Driver Transition
Microsoft’s transition plan has clear milestones that IT administrators, users and organisations need to understand:
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January 15, 2026: Microsoft stopped publishing new legacy V3 and V4 printer drivers on Windows Update for Windows 11 and Windows Server 2025 and later.
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July 1, 2026: Windows will start preferring the Microsoft IPP Class Driver when multiple driver options are available.
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July 1, 2027: Legacy third‑party drivers will be restricted on Windows Update to security‑only updates; feature updates and new driver packages will generally be blocked.
These dates are significant because they define how and when Microsoft will reduce its reliance on legacy drivers and raise the profile of built‑in printing standards.
What This Means for Ordinary Users
For regular Windows users, this change will not immediately break printer functionality. Most modern printers that support IPP and newer printing standards will continue to work out of the box, using the built‑in Microsoft Class Driver.
However, if you rely on older or specialised printers that need vendor‑specific drivers, you may notice a difference:
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Some printers may not automatically install through Windows Update because their drivers are no longer distributed through that channel.
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Users may need to manually download and install drivers directly from manufacturer websites to ensure full functionality.
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In a few cases, very old printers that never received modern driver updates may face compatibility issues over time, especially if manufacturers no longer support them.
Experts advise that if you have older printers, you should check with the manufacturer for the latest available updates or consider upgrading to hardware that fully supports the IPP Class Driver and modern standards.
Impact on Businesses and IT Administrators
The changes introduced by Microsoft are particularly relevant for organisations and IT teams that manage large fleets of printers across offices or campuses. Traditionally, Windows Update has been a convenient way to deliver drivers and ensure compatibility. With the new policy, IT departments will need to take a more hands‑on approach.
IT professionals are being encouraged to:
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Audit existing printing fleets to identify which devices rely on legacy drivers.
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Verify IPP/Mopria support or compatible modern drivers available from manufacturers.
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Standardise on newer printing hardware when possible to avoid problematic legacy installations.
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Use management and deployment tools such as Universal Print and Print Support Apps distributed through the Microsoft Store for advanced printer features.
Switching to modern printing infrastructure can reduce help‑desk tickets and enhance security, but it also means organisations may need to plan for hardware refreshes and change management.
Printer Experience and User Features
While many users will still be able to print basic documents, the transition may reduce access to advanced features that were tied to vendor‑specific drivers. Functions like detailed print quality settings, scanning utilities, and finishing options on multifunction printers might not be fully supported through generic drivers alone.
This has sparked debate in tech communities, with some users complaining that the Microsoft IPP Class Driver does not provide the same level of control and detailed options as traditional drivers. Others argue that the trade‑off for improved security and reliability is worthwhile.
The Road Ahead: A Modern Windows Printing Ecosystem
Microsoft’s printer driver policy shift reflects a broader industry trend toward standardisation and simplified device management. By embracing protocols like IPP and reducing dependency on bespoke driver packages, Windows can offer a more consistent printing experience across devices.
The transition to modern printing standards paired with Print Support Apps and cloud‑based Universal Print services may also reduce friction for remote workplaces and hybrid environments. These services can centralise print tasks and reduce the need for local driver installations in many cases.
That said, the change needs careful planning from users and organisations alike. Legacy devices and bespoke workflows may not migrate instantly, and IT teams should monitor deadlines and plan ahead to ensure continuity in printing operations.
As the world moves toward more secure and standardised computing environments, Microsoft’s printer driver updates strategy is a clear sign that even longstanding technologies like printing are not immune to rapid change.
