Microsoft is making major changes to the ways printing works in Windows, and by 2027, those changes will affect every Windows user and every print manufacturer. The centrepiece of this shift is Windows Protected Print (WPP), a new security-focused printing mode designed to simplify printing, boost data protection and reduce reliance on traditional printer drivers.
Below, we break down what WPP is, when it begins to roll out how it impacts the users and the IT Administrators, and what you can do now to prepare
What Is Windows Protected Print Mode? (WPP)
Windows Protected Print is a new, secure printing standard built into Windows. Its goal is simple:
- Protect sensitive documents
- Remove risky third-party drivers
- Support modern, driverless printing based on open standards
WPP encrypts print jobs, ensuring only authorised users can print or view documents. It also replaces manufacturer-specific printer drivers with Microsofts own IPP Class Driver, which works only with Mopria-certified printers. When enabled, WPP changes how printing works: When enabled, WPP changes how printing works in Windows:
- Existing and older printer drivers (also known as V3 or V4 drivers) will stop working
- Printing is only possible with Mopria-certified printers, using the Microsoft IPP (Internet Printing Protocol) Class driver
- Printer setup becomes more consistent and driverless across brands and devices
WPP is currently turned off by default, but it can easily be manually activated by doing the following:
Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Printers & Scanners > Set Up Windows Protected Print
Please Note: Turning Windows Protected Print on will remove the old, third-party drivers and won’t allow them to be reinstalled, essentially braking them.
Also, users would need a Local Administrator to enable it, to prevent accidental disruptions.
For now, it’s recommended that organisations disable WPP at server level via a group policy, until they confirm their printers work with the Microsoft IPP Class driver. Only once printers are fully compatible should organisations plan a rollout.
What Is Mopria?
The Mopria Alliance was formed in 2013 by HP, Canon, Samsung and Xerox to make printing and scanning work smoothly across all devices. Over time, more popular manufacturers joined the alliance, including Brother, Epson, Konica Minolta and Kyocera.
Mopria is the Android equivalent of Apple AirPrint, a universal standard that lets you print without needing extra drivers.
Mopria sets the standards that helps printers and scanners “Just work”, most printers are Mopria-certified. With Windows Protected Print (WPP), Microsoft has confirmed that only Mopria-certified printers can be installed. Check if your printer is Mopria-certified for guaranteed support.
Benefits Of Windows Protected Print
Compatibility
Windows Protected Print uses the modern IPP Class Driver, which works with all Mopria-certified printers regardless of manufacturer. This ensures a unified and secure printing foundation across brands such as HP, Canon, Kyocera, Brother, Lexmark and Xerox. As Mopria certification becomes essential, organisations can rely on predictable compatibility when purchasing new devices
Improved Data Protection
WPP encrypts every print job end-to-end, reducing the risk of document interception or unauthorised access. This makes printing safer in environments where sensitive information is handled, such as offices, schools, healthcare and home networks.
A Consistent, Driverless Printing Experience
Because Windows Protected Print removes reliance on the V3/V4 manufacturer drivers, every Windows device provides the same unboxing, setup and printing experience. You no longer need to manage different drivers for different brands, making unboxing and connecting new printers much faster and more predictable.
Simplified Printing & Lower Maintenance
Without manufacturer specific drivers, installing a printer becomes as simple as “Add device” and “Print”. This drastically reduces troubleshooting time, prevents drivers conflicts, and eliminates outdated or vulnerable software from your system
When Is Windows Protected Print Coming Into Force?
Microsoft is phasing WPP in over the next few years, with hard deadlines approaching:
Key Dates:
- January 15th, 2026: New third-party printer drivers for Windows 11 and later will only be approved on a case-by-case basis
- July 1st, 2026: Windows will prioritise the built-in IPP Class Driver over manufacturer drivers
- July 2027: No more windows Updates will be released for traditional drivers (Except for security fixes) This marks the full transition towards Windows Protected Print and Mopria-based driverless printing.
Current Status:
Currently, Windows Protected Print is disabled by default until 2027. In 2027, Microsoft will enable it by default on all supported Windows versions. We’ll keep this post updated when any developments happen.
What Will Be The Impact Of Windows Protected Print?
WPP brings advantages, but also important compatibility considerations
Benefits For Users & IT Teams
- Stronger document security: Print jobs are encrypted end-to-end
- No more driver issues: WPP eliminates old, unstable, or risky print drivers
- Consistent experience across brands: If it’s Mopria-certified, it works – simple.
- Less maintenance: Fewer drivers mean fewer conflicts, crashes and updates
Impact & Changes to Expect
- Non-Mopria printers won’t print under WPP: Enabling WPP blocks traditional drivers
- Local Admin rights are required: A user with Local Admin rights needs to activate WPP
- Older or specialist printers may need manual drivers: These are supplied directly by the manufacturers
- Multifunction printers (MFP’s) will still work: Printing, scanning, copying and faxing remain fully supported via standard protocols.
- ARM64 devices are supported: Devices running ARM64 are still supported, with restrictions for certain legacy drivers
Key Points
- If your printer is Mopria-certified, WPP should just work
- If your printer relies on traditional drivers, test it before WPP comes into force in 2027
What You Need To Be Ready
By preparing for the Windows Protected Print (WPP) change now, you will prevent printing disruption later
Step 1 – Check If Your Printer Is Mopria-Certified
Most modern devices from manufacturers like HP, Kyocera, Xerox, Canon, Brother and Lexmark already are. However, if you’re unsure on support, check your printer model on the Mopria-Certified Printers page
Step 2 – Test Printing Using the Microsoft IPP Class Driver
You can manually switch a device to use the UPP Class Driver. If printing works normally, you’re ready for the future.
Step 3 – Disable WPP Organisation-Wide (For Now)
By default, Windows Protected Print is disabled. And Microsoft actually recommends keeping WPP disabled via a Group Policy until testing is fully complete. Disabling Windows Protected Print group-wide ensures the following:
- Prevents accidental activation
- Avoids sudden printing failures
- Ensures a smoother rollout later
Step 4 – Update or Replace older Printers
Printers over 8-10 years old may:
- Lack Mopria support
- Require manufacturer drivers
- Lose compatibility when WPP becomes the default
Manufacturer Updates
Below, we’re going to list all of the updated printer manufacturers are releasing ahead of WPP Integration in 2027:
Kyocera: Kyocera integrates with Microsoft Universal Print platform, and can be easily managed by Microsoft Azure Management Console, which was explained in their Windows Protected Print Press Release
HP: HP released a Windows Protected Print guide on connecting their HP printers using WPP. In short, most HP printers can still be installed using the HP Universal Print Application (HP UPA)
Xerox & Lexmark: The Xerox Print and Scan Experience (XPSA) is a free, downloadable app that enables printer driver features for users that rely on Microsoft IPP Drivers and Microsoft Universal Print.
Canon: Download the free Canon Print Assistant app for full usability with Windows Protected Print
Summary
Windows Protected Print is Microsoft’s biggest security overhaul in over a decade. It’s more secure, simpler and designed for a driverless future – but this change does need preparation
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Windows Protected Print (WPP)?
Windows Protected Print is a new secure printing mode in Windows that encrypts print jobs and removes the need for third-party printer drivers. It works only with Mopria-certified printers using Microsoft’s IPP Class Driver
What Are V3 and V4 Printer Drivers?
V3 and V4 are different versions of Microsoft’s printer driver model. The older V3 (Type 3) driver is a monolithic, device-specific model that can be complex for IT to manage and install.
The newer V4 model which was introduced with Windows 8 is more streamlined and flexible to simplify management.
Both V3 and V4 drivers will stop working after activating Windows Protected Print
What Is Mopria?
The Mopria Alliance was created in 2013 by leading print manufacturers to make printing and scanning work smoothly across all devices. It’s essentially the Android equivalent of Apple AirPrint, providing a universal standard that lets you print without extra drivers.
Mopria ensures printers and scanners work. Most modern printers are Mopria-certiified. With Windows Protected Print, Microsoft requires that only Mopria-certified printers can be installed.
Does My Printer Support Mopria?
Most printers are supported by Mopria, but we recommend checking the Mopria Certified products page for confirmation
When Will Windows Protected Print Come Into Force?
Microsoft will switch WPP on by default in 2027.
Key milestones start earlier in January and July 2026, when Windows begins to phase out new and updated third-party printer drivers.
Will My Current Printer Still Work With Windows Protected Print?
Your printer will work, as long as it’s Mopria Certified.
If it’s not certified, or relies on traditional V3/V4 drivers, it may stop working once WPP is enabled.
What Happens If I Turn Windows Protected Print On Now?
If you enable WPP today:
- Non-compliant printers will immediately stop printing
- Only Mopria printers using the IPP Class Drivers will work
- Local Administrator rights are required to activate WPP
Are My Multifunction Printers (MFP's) Affected
No. MFPs will continue to print, scan, copy and fax normally. WPP affects only the printing aspect, not other device functions.
Why Is Microsoft Making This Change
Microsoft wants to improve printing security, remove risky legacy drivers, simplify setup and standardise printing across all devices and brands
What Are The Benefits of Windows Protected Print?
- Stronger encryption and document security
- No third-party drivers needed
- Less maintenance and fewer print errors
- Consistent experience across different printer brands
- Better long-term support for modern Windows systems
Will Traditional Printer Drivers Still Be Available?
Yes, but with limits:
- No new or updated printer drivers allowed after July 2027 (Except for security fixes)
- Existing drivers remain available from Windows Update and manufacturer sites
- Manufacturers can still offer installers, but support will gradually decline
How Does This Affect Snapdragon ARM64 Windows Devices?
Native ARM64 printer drivers will still be supported in certain situations:
- Specialist printers that cannot be Mopria certified
- Drivers only for Windows 10 and earlier
- Devices requiring ARM64-specific support
What Should Businesses Do To Prepare for WPP?
- Confirm which printers are Mopria certified
- Test printers using the IPP Class Driver
- Disable WPP via Group Policy until testing is finished
- Update, or replace older printers before 2027
- Follow manufacturer guidance and app updates
Do I Need To Install New Software?
In most cases, yes. Manufacturers usually provide apps that enhance WPP and IPP compatibility, including:
- Canon Print Assistant
- HP Smart
- HP Universal Print Driver (For Windows)
- Kyocera’s Universal Print Integration
- Xerox & Lexmark XPSE App v10
What Happens If I Ignore These Changes?
If WPP becomes the default in 2027 and your printers are not compatible, printing may stop working without warning. Preparing early helps prevent disruptions.
Is this The End Of Printer Drivers?
Not entirely, but it’s close.
Microsoft is pushing strongly towards driverless, universal, IPP-based printing, and WPP is the final step in that direction.
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