Microsoft’s Vision for Modern Printing
Redmond is steadfast in its commitment to revolutionizing the printing experience on Windows, aiming for a more modern and secure approach. The introduction of a new printing framework signals a shift that may limit some user choices while purportedly enhancing the reliability of printer management and support workflows.
Recently, Microsoft unveiled Windows Ready Print (WRP), a fresh printing model intended to “evolve” the existing Modern Print Platform. This initiative seeks to synchronize printing devices with the Windows ecosystem by embracing contemporary communication standards, such as the Internet Printing Protocol (IPP), eSCL scanning, and Universal Print.
According to Microsoft’s announcement, adopting WRP extends beyond merely integrating newer printing protocols. The company emphasizes a focus on “simplifying printing, aligning modern standards, and delivering consistent, forward-looking experiences for users, IT administrators, and partners.”
The foundation of WRP lies in moving away from legacy third-party drivers, a significant shift that Microsoft initiated earlier this year. The company has reassured users that older printers and OEM device drivers will remain functional on newer Windows releases, maintaining a level of continuity that users have come to expect.
However, the WRP initiative is set to introduce further changes. Beginning in July 2026, any newly installed printing devices will be managed by the Windows Ready Print framework by default. This new printing experience is already accessible in the latest Windows 11 Insider builds, designed to simplify the traditionally intricate processes of driver management and installation.
Windows printer preferences will now feature new options that allow customization of WRP’s functionality. Both end users and system administrators will have the ability to enforce WRP-based print management or opt to disable the new workflow, thereby continuing to utilize OEM drivers. When Windows Protected Print Mode is activated, printers will be installed solely through WRP, rendering non-compatible devices inoperative.
Recognizing that some enterprise organizations and small office/home office users may not be prepared to transition to WRP immediately, Microsoft is offering additional options to enable or disable this feature. New policies are also available in Group Policy Editor, allowing for the selection or explicit blocking of drivers through WRP.
The incorporation of the Internet Printing Protocol, eSCL, and other modern standards is part of a larger initiative to modernize traditional printing on Windows. These technologies, supported by the Mopria Alliance industry initiative, are touted for their potential to enhance security, compatibility, and reliability in printer management across both x86 and Arm-based devices.
