Microsoft has introduced a game-changing feature in Windows 11 version 24H2: Windows Protected Print Mode (WPP). This security-enhanced printing platform aims to prevent future print vulnerabilities and attacks, such as the infamous PrintNightmare incident of 2021.
What is Windows Protected Print Mode (WPP)?
WPP is a significant change in Windows printing, designed to enhance security by requiring lower privileges and eliminating the need for third-party drivers, which can complicate the process to install printers that rely on these drivers. However, it can complicate the process of installing printers that rely on these drivers, even though it exclusively uses the Windows modern print stack, providing additional security benefits on PCs.
Key features of Windows Protected Print Mode:
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Increased PC security
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Simplified and consistent printing experience
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Removal of the need to manage print drivers
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Encryption of print data from sending to printing
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Enhanced security during print job processing, ensuring that confidential documents are protected throughout their lifecycle
Why is WPP Necessary?
Print driver and print stack-related issues account for 9% of all Windows security issues reported to Microsoft Security Response Center. The traditional print spooler, running with system privileges, has been a significant vulnerability point, potentially compromising the entire operating system. WPP addresses this by preventing the ability to load third-party print drivers, effectively removing a major security risk and enhancing the security of the print infrastructure.
How Protected Print Mode Works
Protected Print Mode works by exclusively using the Windows modern print stack, which eliminates the need for third-party drivers. This means printers are installed using the Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) instead of traditional printer drivers. When Protected Print Mode is enabled, printers that use third-party drivers are uninstalled, and the print driver is deleted from the print driver store. This ensures that only Microsoft-signed binaries are loaded, reducing the risk of security vulnerabilities and ensuring that only the user interacts with the print processes securely.
Printer Drivers and Security
Printer drivers play a crucial role in the printing process, but they can also pose significant security risks. Traditional printer drivers are often outdated and lack modern security features, making them vulnerable to attacks. In contrast, Windows Protected Print Mode (WPP) uses the Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) to eliminate the need for third-party drivers, reducing the attack surface and improving overall security.
When using WPP, printer drivers are no longer required, and print jobs are sent directly to the printer using IPP. This approach ensures that print jobs are encrypted and authenticated, protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access. Additionally, WPP prevents the loading of malicious drivers, which can be used to exploit vulnerabilities in the print stack.
To further enhance security, WPP uses modern security features such as Control Flow Guard (CFG), Control Flow Enforcement Technology (CET), and Arbitrary Code Guard (ACG). These features prevent attackers from exploiting vulnerabilities in the print stack and ensure that print jobs are executed securely.
Implementation Timeline
Microsoft launched WPP on October 1, 2024, as part of the Windows 11 version 24H2 security baseline release. While not enabled by default currently, Microsoft plans to make WPP the default configuration by 2027.
Compatibility and Considerations for Print Servers
Printer drivers are a common source of security vulnerabilities, and Protected Print Mode addresses this issue by eliminating the need for third-party drivers. WPP also integrates modern security protocols, including robust access control mechanisms, to ensure secure access through features like Microsoft Entra ID. However, this means that not all printers are compatible with Protected Print Mode. WPP is designed to work with Mopria-certified printers only.
Before enabling WPP, it’s crucial to research its compatibility with your devices and navigate to the printer preferences to configure settings, as numerous devices and finishing options may become inoperable if WPP is enabled prematurely. According to Microsoft, roughly 70% of printers will work seamlessly over IPP, but some printers may require additional configuration or may not be compatible at all.
How to Enable WPP
WPP can be enabled via Settings or Group Policy:
1. Via Settings: Click ‘Set Up’ and follow the prompts.
2. Via Group Policy: Navigate to Group Policy Editor > Administrative Templates > Printers > Configure Windows protected print > Edit.
Impact on Existing Print Environments
Enabling WPP will:
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Remove all existing print queues and drivers
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Require reconfiguration of print queues from scratch
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Disable the ability to install TCP or IP printers
Benefits of Windows Protected Print Mode for Enterprises Embracing Windows Protected Print Mode provides a multitude of benefits for enterprises aiming to bolster their printing security. A primary benefit is the enhanced protection of confidential data, effectively averting incidents like the Print Nightmare from recurring.
Beside elevated security, Windows Protected Print Mode boosts operational efficiency and alleviates the IT burden. With no need to test, deploy, or update printer drivers and print software on Windows PCs, and the elimination of print servers, organizations can streamline their print infrastructure by utilizing Microsoft Universal Print or Print Support Apps.
Moreover, adopting Windows Protected Print Mode can improve compliance with industry regulations. Many businesses are subject to stringent data protection and privacy mandates, with non-compliance carrying hefty fines.
By integrating Windows Protected Print Mode with Enterprise Cloud Print solutions like PF 360 Print, companies can showcase their dedication to protecting sensitive information and meeting regulatory requirements. This forward-thinking strategy not only reduces legal liabilities but also enhances the organization’s reputation in the competitive market.
Compatibility and Considerations
Printer drivers are a common source of security vulnerabilities, and Protected Print Mode addresses this issue by eliminating the need for third-party drivers. However, this means that not all printers are compatible with Protected Print Mode.
WPP is designed to work with Mopria-certified printers only. Before enabling WPP, it’s crucial to research its compatibility with your devices and navigate to the printer preferences to configure settings, as numerous devices and finishing options may become inoperable if WPP is enabled prematurely.
According to Microsoft, roughly 70% of printers will work seamlessly over IPP, but some printers may require additional configuration or may not be compatible at all.
When Will PF 360 Print Be Compatible with Windows Protected Print?
Windows Protected Print Mode (WPP) is a big step forward in print security. While it offers substantial benefits, organizations should assess their specific requirements and printer compatibility before implementing it.
As the printing landscape continues to evolve, WPP will become the new standard for secure printing in Windows environments. Also, integrating universal print solutions can further enhance print management and user experience, providing a cloud-based approach to modern printing needs.
PF 360 Print will adopt a phased approach toward compatibility.
· March 2025: Support for IPP and AirPrint for iOS devices will be introduced.
· Mid-2025: Full compatibility with Windows Protected Print will be achieved.
Conclusion: Embracing Windows Protected Print Mode (WPP) for a More Secure Printing Environment
In summary, Windows Protected Print Mode (WPP) is a transformative step towards securing print environments against vulnerabilities and enhancing overall data protection. By eliminating the reliance on third-party drivers and utilizing the Windows modern print stack, WPP offers a consistent printing experience while safeguarding sensitive information.
Organizations adopting WPP can expect not only fortified security but also streamlined print management, reduced IT workload, and improved compliance with industry regulations.
As the digital workplace changes, embracing WPP and integrating it with solutions like PF 360 Print will put you ahead of the curve for secure, efficient and future proof printing. So you can face the challenges of today’s complex print infrastructure with confidence and protect your documents and data.
