Secure printing or costly disruption? Preparing for Microsoft Windows Protected Print Mode
By 2027, Microsoft will enable Windows Protected Print Mode (WPP) by default, introducing a driverless, IPP-based printing model aimed at simplifying and securing unmanaged environments. While this shift may enhance security, it raises critical questions for enterprises with complex workflows and diverse print fleets: Will it disrupt your operations? Is it solving a problem you’ve already addressed? And most importantly, is it the right fit for your organization?
What Does WPP Change?
At its core, WPP is Microsoft’s response to address vulnerabilities in the Windows Print Spooler, like the infamous PrintNightmare and others exploited. By removing traditional print drivers, WPP aims to reduce points of risk and improve security. However, this shift comes with significant implications for enterprise environments:- Driverless Printing: Simplicity at Cost WPP eliminates the need for print drivers, relying instead on IPP and Mopria-certified devices. While this simplifies printing, it also removes access to advanced features like stapling, tray selection, and color management.
- Mopria-Certified Devices: Compatibility Challenges WPP restricts printing to Mopria-certified devices, potentially leaving many legacy printers incompatible.
- Alignment with Universal Print: A Narrow Vision? WPP aligns closely with Microsoft’s Universal Print framework, signaling a push toward a unified, OS-native printing model.
The Tradeoffs of WPP
While WPP offers benefits like enhanced security and simpler printing for unmanaged endpoints, it’s not without tradeoffs. Here’s what enterprises need to consider:- Loss of Advanced Features: Without traditional drivers, WPP removes access to advanced printer capabilities like stapling, duplex-specific settings, and custom media handling. For industries like healthcare or finance, this can disrupt workflows and reduce efficiency.
- Compatibility Challenges: WPP’s reliance on Mopria-certified devices means many legacy printers won’t work. Enterprises may face significant costs upgrading hardware to meet these requirements.
- Increased Complexity: Adopting WPP may require maintaining parallel infrastructures—one for WPP and another for existing print solutions—to support advanced workflows, adding operational complexity.
- End-User Frustration: Employees accustomed to feature-rich environments may find WPP’s limitations frustrating, leading to inefficiencies and increased help desk tickets.
When Does WPP Make Sense?
WPP isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Its value depends on your organization’s specific needs and existing print infrastructure. Here’s a look at a few scenarios where WPP might be a good fit:- Unmanaged or BYOD Environments: WPP streamlines printing and reduces IT overhead for employee-owned devices, but only with Mopria-certified printers, likely requiring new hardware.
- Small and Mid-Sized Businesses (SMBs): For organizations with simple workflows and Mopria-certified devices, WPP’s simplicity can be an advantage.
- Selective Adoption: Enterprises can deploy WPP in specific environments—like remote offices or BYOD—while maintaining traditional print solutions elsewhere. However, this approach adds complexity when managing non-Mopria personal printers on employee-owned devices.
How Tungsten Automation Supports WPP Adoption
Tungsten Automation, we understand that WPP is less about mandates and more about making informed choices. Our solutions, including Printix, ControlSuite, and Equitrac, are designed to help enterprises navigate WPP without sacrificing the advanced features and flexibility they depend on. Here’s how we’re preparing to support WPP adoption:
- Seamless Integration: WPP support will be integrated across Tungsten’s product suite by early 2026, ensuring seamless adoption without disrupting workflows or infrastructure.
- Preservation of Advanced Features Tungsten ensures you retain access to advanced features like stapling, tray selection, and color management through hybrid models and intelligent drivers.
- Enterprise-Grade Security Tungsten platforms are ISO 27001 and SOC 2 certified, proactively addressing vulnerabilities like those WPP aims to mitigate.
- Fleet Compatibility Tungsten’s tools ensure legacy devices remain operational, while the Hybrid Cloud Enabler bridges the gap between WPP and traditional infrastructure.
- Simplified Migration With features like automated printer discovery and print server migration, Tungsten makes transitioning to WPP—or maintaining a hybrid model—hassle-free.
- Proactive Support Our team provides expert guidance to assess fleet readiness, evaluate costs, and implement WPP where it adds the most value.
Next Steps: Learn More About WPP and Your Print Strategy
Is your organization ready for the shift to Windows Protected Print Mode (WPP)? Whether you’re exploring how WPP fits into your print strategy or evaluating its impact on your workflows, we’ve got you covered.
Watch our on-demand webinar or download our white paper to gain actionable insights on fleet compatibility, strategic readiness, and implementation planning.
Future-proof your print strategy today—let Tungsten Automation help you navigate WPP with confidence.
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