How Microsoft’s Upcoming Windows 11 Update Could Impact Your Printing

On October 8, 2024, Microsoft will introduce a new feature in an optional Windows 11 update called Windows Protected Print Mode (WPP). While WPP is intended to strengthen security, it has the potential to significantly disrupt your business’s printing environment if not managed properly. This update could impact both your printers’ functionality and workflow efficiency, making it crucial for businesses to prepare for the changes ahead.

 

What is Windows Protected Print Mode (WPP)?

Windows Protected Print Mode (WPP) is a security-focused feature that replaces third-party print drivers and print management systems with a new Windows default driver. This change aims to streamline and secure print management, but the downside is that it will remove all custom printer drivers provided by manufacturers, such as those for Canon, HP, and Xerox.

 

Key Impacts of WPP:

• Third-Party Drivers Removed: All third-party print drivers and print spoolers will be replaced by a new Windows default driver.
• Device Incompatibility: An estimated 30% of printers will not function under WPP.
• Reduced Functionality: Up to 70% of remaining devices may lose advanced features like finishing, stapling, and duplex printing, while others may experience slower print speeds.

 

How WPP Could Disrupt Your Printing Environment

 

1. Compatibility Issues

The introduction of WPP is expected to make 30% of print devices completely non-functional. This can severely impact businesses that rely on older or specialized devices, such as production printers, wide-format devices, or multifunction printers (MFPs).

 

2. Loss of Advanced Features

For printers that are still functional under WPP, expect reduced functionality. Many advanced features, such as high-resolution printing, automatic document feeders, and finishing options (stapling, collating), may not be supported. This could slow down workflows and negatively impact productivity.

 

3. Slower Printing Performance

With the new default driver, print speeds may decrease, which could lead to bottlenecks in high-volume environments. This is especially concerning for businesses that rely on quick, efficient print jobs to maintain workflow continuity.

 

Preparing for the Windows 11 Update

To avoid disruptions, businesses must act before installing the WPP update. Here are key steps to prepare:

 

1. Assess Your Printer Fleet

A detailed assessment of your printer fleet is essential to determine which devices will be impacted. Novatech’s Office X-Ray assessment, part of our Managed Print Services (MPS), provides a comprehensive review of your current print setup, identifying devices at risk under WPP.

 

2. Plan for Upgrades or Replacements

If key devices in your environment are likely to be rendered obsolete, upgrading to Windows-compatible printers may be necessary. Novatech offers a range of Managed Cartridge Solutions and can help ensure you select devices that will continue to function seamlessly after the update.

 

3. Implement Advanced Workflow Automation

For businesses experiencing workflow disruptions due to WPP, Advanced Workflow Automation solutions can help. These solutions optimize document processes, allowing your business to maintain productivity even as print capabilities change.

 

4. Test the Update in a Controlled Environment

Before deploying the update company-wide, consider testing WPP in a controlled environment. This allows you to identify issues early and take corrective action. Novatech’s Managed IT team can assist in testing the update on select machines to evaluate printer functionality and workflow performance.

 

5. Explore Third-Party Print Management Solutions

While WPP might remove third-party drivers, solutions like PaperCut or UniFlow could restore some lost functionality. These tools provide robust print management and may help recover advanced features removed by the Windows update.

 

Why Partner with Novatech?

Navigating disruptive changes like Microsoft’s WPP update requires expert guidance. Novatech is your trusted partner for Managed IT, Managed Print, Cloud, Cybersecurity, and Advanced Workflow Automation. Our Managed Office solutions are designed to simplify technology, streamline operations, and protect your business from unforeseen changes.

By conducting a Strategic Technology Review and leveraging tools like our Office X-Ray assessment, we help you identify risks, maintain device functionality, and enhance workflow efficiency. Whether it’s ensuring your print fleet remains operational or implementing new workflow automation, Novatech is here to help.

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Ready to Protect Your Business from the WPP Update?

Ensure your office technology is ready for the Windows 11 update and optimize your printing environment with Novatech’s Managed Office solutions. Contact us today to schedule a Strategic Technology Review and safeguard your business’s workflow.