As technology evolves, the need for robust security and streamlined workflows becomes increasingly paramount, even in areas as seemingly routine as printing. Windows Protected Print Mode (WPP) is Microsoft’s response to the challenges of modern printing, offering users a more secure, efficient, and future-ready way to handle printing tasks.
Whether you’re managing sensitive business documents or navigating the impending phase-out of third-party print drivers, understanding WPP is crucial. In this blog, we’ll explore what Windows Protected Print Mode is, why it matters, how to enable it and how Mopria-certified printers aid a seamless transition to this new standard.
What is Windows Protected Print Mode?
Windows Protected Print Mode is a feature introduced by Mopria Alliance member Microsoft to enhance the security and functionality of printing on Windows devices. By leveraging the Windows modern print stack and the Internet Printing Protocol (IPP), WPP eliminates the need for traditional third-party print drivers. This approach minimizes vulnerabilities, simplifies administration, and ensures consistency across devices and architectures.
WPP also marks a shift toward a universal and modern print experience, integrating seamlessly with cloud services and leveraging built-in print capabilities.
In addition to these benefits, WPP is part of Microsoft’s broader effort to modernize the printing experience while prioritizing security and ease of use.
Key Benefits of Windows Protected Print Mode
Enhanced Security
WPP operates with reduced privileges, meaning that if an attacker exploits the print process, they cannot gain SYSTEM-level access. This design significantly mitigates risks associated with print-related vulnerabilities.
Simplified User Experience
By removing reliance on third-party drivers, WPP streamlines the printing process. Users experience fewer compatibility issues and more consistent performance, regardless of their PC’s architecture.
Future-Proof Printing
Microsoft’s decision to phase out support for third-party print drivers by 2027 underscores the importance of WPP. This feature aligns with the modern print ecosystem, ensuring compatibility with upcoming Windows updates.
Moreover, WPP supports seamless integration with Microsoft’s cloud services, making it a critical component for businesses looking to adopt a secure and flexible printing infrastructure.
In short, the Mopria Alliance stands behind Microsoft and Windows Protected Print Mode. If you have Mopria certified printers, we recommend enabling them for secure, streamlined and modernized home and office printing.
Why and When to Use Windows Protected Print Mode
Protect Sensitive Information
For organizations handling confidential data, WPP offers an extra layer of security. According to Microsoft, print stack-related issues are responsible for 9% of the Windows security issues reported to the Microsoft Security Response Center (MSRC). WPP prevents unauthorized access to print jobs and reduces the risk of data breaches. In fact, Microsoft reports that WPP mitigated over half of these vulnerabilities.
Simplify IT Administration
Managing multiple print drivers can be a logistical headache. WPP eliminates this complexity, making it easier for IT teams to maintain consistency across devices.
Prepare for the Future
With Microsoft’s phase-out of third-party print drivers on the horizon, enabling WPP now ensures a smoother transition and continued compatibility with future Windows updates. Adopting WPP now allows businesses to harness the benefits of Microsoft’s secure and flexible cloud printing services, positioning them for success in a digital-first world.
Mopria Certified Printers: Your Key to Seamless Printing
Mopria certified printers are designed to work effortlessly with modern print standards, including Windows Protected Print Mode. These printers support driverless printing via IPP, which is critical for compatibility with the Windows modern print platform. By choosing Mopria certified devices, users can:
- Avoid disruptions when third-party print driver support ends.
- Benefit from a consistent, high-quality printing experience.
- Simplify printer setup and management.
To ensure compatibility, check if your printer is Mopria certified here. You can also enable WPP on a test Windows machine and print from it. If your printer can’t be found when WPP is enabled, it is not compatible with WPP.
How to Enable Windows Protected Print Mode
Activating Windows Protected Print Mode is straightforward and can be done in just a few steps:
1. Press Start.
2. Navigate to Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Printers & scanners.
3. Scroll down to Printer Preferences and under Windows protected print mode select Set up.
Image source: Microsoft, “Windows protected print mode”, January 23, 2025
4. Select Yes, continue for all prompts.
Image source: Microsoft, “Windows protected print mode”, January 23, 2025
Image source: Microsoft, “Windows protected print mode”, January 23, 2025
Once enabled, your system will automatically use the modern print stack, ensuring a secure and streamlined printing experience.
The Future of Printing
Windows Protected Print Mode represents a significant step forward in creating a secure, reliable and future-ready printing environment. By adopting WPP and using Mopria certified printers, organizations can protect sensitive information, simplify IT operations and prepare for the coming shift in printing technology.
As the printing landscape evolves, staying informed and proactive is key. Enable WPP and explore Mopria certified solutions to ensure your printing infrastructure is ready for the future.
For more insights into modern print security and functionality, visit Microsoft’s Tech Community Blog.
