How to Check if Printer Supports Windows Protected Print Mode
This guide explains how to check if your printer or scanner works with Windows Protected Print (WPP) mode on Windows 11.
Windows Protected Print (WPP) mode is a security feature that forces your computer to use a modern, driverless printing system. Instead of relying on potentially insecure third-party print drivers, WPP uses the Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) to communicate directly with your printer. This reduces the risk of malware and makes your printing experience more stable.
Why use WPP?
Traditional print drivers often run with high-level system permissions. If a driver is compromised, your entire computer is at risk. WPP removes these drivers, ensuring that your printer communicates through a secure, standardized channel. It simplifies management for both home users and IT administrators.
What happens when you enable WPP?
When you turn on WPP, Windows will attempt to switch all your printers to the modern stack. If a printer is not Mopria certified or does not support IPP, it will stop working or be removed from your list of available devices. You will no longer need to install manufacturer-specific software or drivers.
Check if Your Printer Supports WPP
Before you enable this mode, you should verify that your hardware is ready. You can do this in two ways.
Option 1: Use Mopria Certified Products list
If you are planning to buy a new printer or want to check your current one, visit the Mopria certified products website. Most modern printers are Mopria certified, which means they are fully compatible with WPP.
Option 2: Windows 11 Settings
You can check your currently installed printers directly in Windows 11.
- Open Settings by pressing Win+I.
- Go to Bluetooth & devices and select Printers & scanners.
- Look for the WPP icon next to your printer name.
Open Printers & scanners settings
Enterprise Deployment and GPO
For businesses, IT administrators can manage WPP using Group Policy Objects (GPO). This allows for consistent security across an entire organization. Administrators can force WPP mode to ensure all workstations follow the same security standards.
Summary
Windows Protected Print (WPP) mode is a security feature in Windows 11 that uses the modern print stack to eliminate the need for third-party drivers. You can check compatibility by looking for the WPP icon in your printer settings or by searching the Mopria certified products database. Enabling WPP improves security but may remove non-compliant printers.
References:
- Windows Protected Print Mode
- Making it easier to identify Windows protected print mode compatible devices | Microsoft Community Hub
For more technical details, visit the official Microsoft Learn documentation.
Does enabling WPP delete my existing printer drivers?
Enabling WPP does not permanently delete your drivers, but it stops Windows from using them. The system switches to a driverless printing stack. If you disable WPP later, your previous drivers should remain available for use, provided they were not manually uninstalled during the transition process.
Is Windows Protected Print Mode mandatory for all Windows 11 users?
No, WPP is not mandatory for home users. It is an optional security feature that you can toggle on or off in your settings. However, Microsoft strongly recommends enabling it to protect your computer from vulnerabilities associated with older, third-party print drivers and legacy print infrastructure.
How does WPP affect network printers versus USB printers?
WPP works with both network and USB printers, provided they support the IPP standard. For USB printers, Windows uses IPP-over-USB to maintain a secure connection. If your printer supports the modern print stack, the connection method does not change the security benefits you receive from using WPP.
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