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[Windows IPP-based inbox printer driver]

by ailona•

Microsoft modernizes Windows printing with a universal IPP-based inbox driver, processor-agnostic support, and a Print Support App framework to enable vendor features. The change reduces driver complexity, improves security by reducing attack surface, and simplifies deployment and compatibility for IT.

Today Microsoft announced a modern print platform that replaces device-specific drivers with a universal inbox-class driver. The change standardizes printing across architectures and simplifies deployment for IT teams.

Main feature and impact

Windows now includes a single universal driver implementing IPP and Mopria standards. This driver removes the need for vendor-specific drivers and reduces compatibility gaps across x64 and Arm devices. The architecture is processor-agnostic and supports automatic acquisition of Print Support Apps. Resulting impacts include lower IT overhead, fewer reliability issues, and a smaller attack surface for printing.

Practical implications

Manufacturers use the Print Support App framework to deliver differentiated features via lightweight store apps. PSAs supply vendor-specific options without custom kernel drivers or parallel stacks. Enterprises benefit from simpler provisioning, consistent behavior across hardware refreshes, and easier integration with print management systems. Security teams gain from reduced privilege footprint and a path to deprecate legacy third-party drivers.
“make printing on Windows effortless, secure, and reliable for everyone.”
This shift accelerates migration away from legacy driver models and reduces operational complexity. Next steps for IT: validate PSA availability for critical printers and update deployment plans. Developers and partners should prioritize PSA adoption and test across Arm and x64 fleets to ensure consistent user experiences.

Key points from the article:

  • Universal IPP-based driver removes device-specific driver requirement.
  • Processor-agnostic design ensures consistent x64 and Arm experiences.
  • Print Support Apps enable vendor-specific features via the Microsoft Store.
  • Standardization reduces third-party driver attack surface and vulnerabilities.
  • Simplified deployment cuts IT overhead and cross-platform compatibility work.

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    From the Windows IT Pro Blog articles