Microsoft is enacting a major shift in how Windows 11 supports printers, effectively ending support for older hardware reliant on legacy drivers. Beginning with a non-security update released on January 15, 2026, the operating system will no longer support V3 and V4 printer drivers, a change initially announced in September 2023.
The move is part of a broader effort to modernize the Windows printing platform, a process that began with Windows 10 21H2, which eliminated the need for print device manufacturers to provide their own installers. Under the new plan, users of Windows 11 and future versions of Windows Server will be unable to install new printer drivers through Windows Update.
While existing drivers currently available through Windows Update will continue to receive updates on a case-by-case basis, submissions of new V3 and V4 drivers have already been blocked by default as of January 15. These submissions are now subject to a manual review process, requiring justification for continued servicing of legacy drivers.
The end of support for these older drivers means that printers relying exclusively on them may fail to install or cease functioning altogether. Microsoft acknowledges that most users will not be affected, as the majority of newer printers utilize more modern driver architectures. However, the change could pose challenges for systems connected to older printers, particularly in small businesses, schools, or home offices.
Microsoft frames this change as a necessary step for both servicing and security. The traditional Windows print driver ecosystem has been plagued by vulnerabilities, such as the “PrintNightmare” exploit, and the sheer volume of vendor-specific drivers has created significant maintenance burdens. By limiting the drivers distributed through Windows Update, Microsoft aims to shift responsibility for supporting legacy hardware back to the manufacturers.
Further solidifying this shift, Windows will begin prioritizing Microsoft’s built-in IPP (Internet Printing Protocol) class driver when multiple options are available, starting July 1, 2026. A year later, on July 1, 2027, updates to third-party printer drivers delivered via Windows Update will be restricted to security fixes only.
These changes also appear to pave the way for wider adoption of Windows Protected Print Mode, introduced with recent Windows 11 24H2 releases. When enabled, this feature removes third-party printer drivers entirely, relying solely on Microsoft’s class drivers. While currently optional, its inclusion suggests Microsoft’s long-term vision for the Windows printing platform.
For users concerned about compatibility, Microsoft recommends checking with their printer manufacturer and updating to a supported driver. Upgrading to a more modern printing solution is also advised.
