The ongoing challenges posed by proprietary printer drivers have long been a concern for Microsoft, with the company noting that a notable nine percent of Windows security issues stem from its printing system. A particularly alarming incident in 2021 highlighted this vulnerability when a flaw in the printer spooler was discovered, granting attackers system rights—one tier above administrator rights. This breach allowed for the installation of arbitrary applications and extensive modifications to Windows settings, culminating in the aptly named “Print Nightmare.”
Introducing Windows Protected Print Mode
In response to these security threats, Microsoft has rolled out the Windows Protected Print mode (WPP) in the latest Windows 11 24H2 update. This innovative feature replaces manufacturer-specific drivers on numerous printers and actively prevents the installation of new printer drivers, thereby creating a fortified barrier against malicious code infiltrating systems through these drivers.
WPP operates under the principle of limiting the execution of common printer spooler tasks to user rights rather than system rights, effectively sealing the vulnerabilities that led to the Print Nightmare incident.
WPP is built on the Internet Print Protocol (IPP) and utilizes a standardized IPPClass driver, ensuring compatibility with all printers and multifunction devices certified by the Mobile Printing Alliance (Mopria). This alliance, originally established by industry giants such as Canon, HP, Samsung, and Xerox, now includes all major printer manufacturers.
To ensure a seamless user experience, WPP is not activated by default. Users must enable it manually. Compatibility with your printer or multifunction device can be verified at Mopria’s certified products page.
Enabling WPP is straightforward: navigate to the “Settings” in the Start menu, select “Bluetooth and devices,” then “Printers and scanners.” Scroll down to find “Windows Protected Print Mode” and click on “Set up.” After confirming two security prompts with “Yes, continue,” Windows will handle the rest.
Once activated, Windows takes charge of print jobs using its WPP driver. For users accustomed to the extended functionalities provided by original manufacturer drivers, corresponding tools may be available in the Microsoft Store.
If the need arises to deactivate WPP, simply return to “Bluetooth and devices,” select “Printers and scanners,” and click on “Windows-protected print mode” to remove it. A confirmation of “Yes” will suffice, but be mindful that this action necessitates the reinstallation of the manufacturer’s original drivers.