Microsoft is ending support for older printer drivers in Windows 11, a move that will impact printers relying on drivers versions V3 and V4. The change, implemented with the update KB5074105, affects systems running Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2. While Microsoft announced the planned deprecation in , giving users over two years to prepare, the deadline has now arrived.
The decision to phase out these legacy drivers stems from a broader effort to modernize Windows 11 and improve its security posture. Older printer drivers are often less stable and present a greater security risk than their modern counterparts. By removing support for V3 and V4 drivers, Microsoft aims to reduce the attack surface and enhance the overall reliability of the operating system.
According to Microsoft, the majority of users will not be affected by this change. Most modern printers utilize more recent driver technologies. However, the update will impact users still relying on older printers, particularly in smaller businesses, schools, or home offices where equipment upgrades may be less frequent.
“Starting January 2026, Windows will no longer support these devices,” Microsoft stated on its official support page. The company advises users experiencing issues to contact their printer manufacturer for updated, compatible drivers or alternative printing solutions.
The move is part of a larger trend within Microsoft to sunset features and technologies associated with the “Creators Update” era of Windows. Recently, the company also announced the removal of 3D Viewer, signaling a shift away from older, less-used components in favor of more modern alternatives.
For users who have already received the KB5074105 update and are experiencing printer issues, Microsoft provides a workaround. Users can attempt to uninstall the update by navigating to Settings > Windows Update > Update History, and then selecting “Uninstall updates.” The list of available updates to remove will appear, and if KB5074105 is present, users can proceed with the uninstallation process. Microsoft recommends backing up data before attempting this procedure.
This decision reflects Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to improving the security and performance of Windows 11. By discontinuing support for outdated technologies, the company can focus its resources on maintaining and enhancing the features that are most important to its users. The shift also allows Microsoft to reduce the complexity of the operating system, potentially leading to greater stability and fewer compatibility issues.
While the change may require some users to upgrade their printers or drivers, it ultimately contributes to a more secure and reliable computing experience. The two-year notice period provided by Microsoft was intended to give users ample time to prepare for the transition, and the company’s support resources are available to assist those who encounter difficulties.
The broader context of this update is Microsoft’s push to encourage adoption of Windows 11. Despite initial compatibility concerns, it remains possible to upgrade PCs to Windows 11 even if they don’t meet the official system requirements. The company is also actively working to address user feedback and improve the overall experience with Windows 11, aiming to regain the trust of users who have experienced issues with recent updates.
As of , Windows 11 is installed on over 1 billion devices, and more than 66% of Steam players use it as their primary operating system, demonstrating its growing popularity. Microsoft’s continued investment in the platform, including updates like this one, is crucial to maintaining its momentum and ensuring a positive user experience.
