As organisations continue to strengthen their cybersecurity strategies, Microsoft is introducing Windows Protected Print (WPP) as part of its Modern Print Platform.

This new approach is designed to improve print security, simplify print management, and reduce the risks associated with traditional printer drivers. While the transition brings many benefits, it also means businesses should begin reviewing their existing print environments to ensure they’re prepared.

What is Windows Protected Print?

Windows Protected Print is Microsoft’s new secure printing architecture that replaces traditional manufacturer-specific printer drivers with the Microsoft Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) Class Driver.

Instead of relying on individual printer drivers from manufacturers, Windows communicates with compatible printers using a standardised IPP-based protocol. This reduces the attack surface created by third-party drivers while creating a more consistent printing experience across Windows devices.

As Microsoft continues to evolve its Modern Print Platform, WPP will become an increasingly important part of future Windows environments.

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Why is Microsoft introducing WPP?

Printer drivers have historically been a common source of security vulnerabilities and compatibility issues within enterprise environments.

Windows Protected Print aims to:

• Improve security by reducing reliance on third-party print drivers.
• Simplify printer deployment and management.
• Support Microsoft’s cloud-first printing strategy.
• Improve compatibility across Windows devices.
• Reduce ongoing driver maintenance.

For many organisations, this represents a significant step towards a more secure and streamlined print infrastructure.

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How could this impact your business?

While Windows Protected Print offers many advantages, organisations should understand the impact before enabling it across their environment.

When WPP is enabled:

• Traditional manufacturer print drivers can no longer be installed.
• Existing print queues may require review or reconfiguration.
• Some advanced finishing options, such as stapling, hole punching or booklet creation, may not behave as they do today.
• Businesses using older print workflows or specialised print drivers should assess compatibility before deployment.

Planning ahead can help avoid unexpected disruptions during future Windows updates.

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HP and Microsoft Universal Print

HP Enterprise printers running supported FutureSmart firmware are designed to work with Microsoft Universal Print, Microsoft’s cloud-based print service.

HP FutureSmart firmware version 5.8.1.1 or later supports Microsoft Universal Print, allowing compatible devices to be registered directly with Microsoft Universal Print and managed through Microsoft Entra ID.

This provides organisations with a modern print solution that aligns with Microsoft’s evolving print platform while maintaining enterprise-grade security and management capabilities.

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Is your print environment ready?

Every organisation’s print environment is different.

Before enabling Windows Protected Print, it’s important to review:

• Printer fleet compatibility
• Current firmware versions
• Existing print queues
• Finishing requirements
• Print management software
• Microsoft Universal Print readiness

Taking a proactive approach now can minimise disruption later.

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How EPS can help?

Our technical specialists are already assisting organisations in preparing for Microsoft’s Modern Print Platform.

We can help with:

• Windows Protected Print readiness assessments
• HP firmware reviews and upgrades
• Microsoft Universal Print configuration
• Compatibility testing
• Print infrastructure planning
• Deployment support

Whether you’re managing a single office or a national fleet of devices, our team can help ensure a smooth transition.

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Learn more

For additional information about Windows Protected Print and Microsoft’s Modern Print Platform, you can explore the following resources:

• Microsoft Universal Print & Windows Protected Print Overview
• Windows Protected Print (WPP) Overview Video
• Microsoft Universal Print documentation
• HP FutureSmart firmware documentation

Or contact the Elite Print Solutions team to discuss how these changes may impact your organisation.