Microsoft is shifting how Windows handles printer connections. The company plans to retire third-party printer drivers and replace them with a native system called Windows Ready Print. The transition seeks to streamline the process of adding new printers to Windows systems.
Microsoft plans to retire third-party printer drivers and replace them with a native system called Windows Ready Print.
The change targets Windows 11 devices that meet specific eligibility criteria. Microsoft renamed its existing Modern Print Platform to Windows Ready Print. The update relies on the Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) instead of traditional manufacturer drivers.
New printer installations will default to Windows Ready Print starting in July 2026. Users retain control over this behavior through Settings or Group Policy. Users retain the option to revert to traditional manufacturer drivers through Settings or Group Policy.
The platform removes support for third-party drivers distributed via Windows Update. Microsoft directs users toward native IPP drivers that come built into the operating system. The update standardizes printer configuration to minimize installation issues on eligible devices.
Discussion
0 comments
Log in to join the thread with a thoughtful take, question, or correction.