Microsoft will block third-party printer drivers from being automatically installed through Windows Update starting in 2025.
The company says that this change is being made to improve the security and reliability of Windows printing.
“With the release of Windows 10 21H2, Windows offers inbox support for Mopria compliant printer devices over network and USB interfaces via the Microsoft IPP Class Driver,” Microsoft says.
“This removes the need for print device manufacturers to provide their own installers, drivers, utilities, and so on.”
Currently, Windows Update can automatically install third-party printer drivers from the Microsoft Update Catalog. However, this can sometimes lead to problems, such as compatibility issues or security vulnerabilities.
With the new change, users will need to download and install third-party printer drivers manually from the printer manufacturer’s website. This will give users more control over the drivers that are installed on their computers, and it will also help to reduce the risk of security problems.
Microsoft says that the change will be phased in over time and that it will not affect printers that are already installed on Windows computers.
