What to know about Microsoft’s changing Print Policy

Why it matters and how we are supporting you.

Microsoft is changing how Windows communicates with printers. The shift to Windows Protected Print Mode (WPP) means that all vendors must adapt so devices continue to deliver full functionality in Windows environments. This policy takes full effect in 2027, but preparations should begin now.

We will be releasing our solution by the end of 2025, well ahead of Microsoft’s complete transition. Customers should work with their Lexmark representative when considering this change. Here’s what you need to know:

• What’s Microsoft changing about Windows: Starting with Windows 11 24H2, Microsoft introduced Windows Protected Print Mode (WPP). WPP uses only IPP Class Drivers, moving away from legacy v3/v4 print drivers. WPP is disabled by default until 2027, giving organizations time to plan. Microsoft’s staged transition includes:  
  • January 2026 – No new third-party drivers published via Windows Update
  • July 2026 – Windows defaults to IPP Class Driver when adding devices  
  • July 2027 – No updates for third-party drivers except security fixes  
    
  This shift is designed to increase security and reduce dependency on legacy drivers. 
• How we will help:  By the end of 2025, the upcoming Xerox Print and Scan Experience (XPSE) App v10 will provide the unified solution for both Xerox and Lexmark devices. XPSE v10 will:

  • Deliver advanced printing and scanning functions within WPP environments.

  • Restore granular job-level controls (finishing options, toner density, tray management, etc.).

  •  Provide a seamless experience across supported devices, ensuring organizations maintain productivity and cost control.

  •  Serve as the industry-standard way to unlock advanced features on top of Microsoft’s IPP Class Driver Our solution to support WPP.

*Lexmark has been acquired by Xerox and as a combined company we are committed to giving customers all the benefits from combined company using all possible software & offerings, hence XPSE v10 is our PSA solution.

What Customers Should Do Now

• Wait before enabling WPP until XPSE v10 is available, to avoid loss of advanced features. 
• Plan for transition by evaluating print workflows and identifying dependencies on current v3/v4 drivers.
• Engage with your Lexmark representative to stay updated on timelines and best practices.

*What Happens if WPP Is Enabled Early

• If WPP is activated before XPSE v10 is deployed, existing v3/v4 drivers, print ports, and preconfigured settings will be removed. 
• Printing will still work, but advanced functionality (finishing, toner density, tray selection) will be lost.
• Reverting requires a full manual reinstallation of drivers — a time-consuming process  
  Print management platforms (such as Cloud Print Management (CPM) and Managed Print Services (MPS)) may lose critical features, as they depend on driver-level controls  
  Remaining on current v3/v4 drivers until XPSE v10 becomes available will ensure uninterrupted access to advanced functions. 

Our Commitment to you 
We are working closely with Microsoft to ensure a smooth transition to WPP. The release of XPSE v10 by end of 2025 will provide full, advanced print support for your Lexmark devices — well before Microsoft’s 2027 cutover. We remain committed to helping customers navigate this shift confidently and without disruption. 

Please don’t hesitate to contact your Lexmark representative with any questions you may have. We’re here to help you navigate this transition.