THE FUTURE OF PRINTING

Microsoft Protected Print and ARM Processors

The Future of Printing: How Windows Protected Print and ARM Processors Are Changing Everything

What’s Really Going On?

Microsoft recently introduced something called Windows Protected Print (WPP) – think of it as a complete security makeover for printing. At the same time, many new computers are using a different type of processor called ARM chips (specifically Snapdragon processors) instead of the traditional Intel or AMD chips we’re used to. These two changes are creating a perfect storm that’s affecting how we print documents. Imagine if your smartphone suddenly couldn’t run your favorite apps, or if your car required a completely different type of fuel. That’s essentially what’s happening in the world of computer printing right now. Two major changes from Microsoft and computer chip makers are fundamentally altering how we print documents, and most people don’t even know it’s happening.

The Security Revolution: Windows Protected Print

For over 20 years, printing on Windows computers worked the same way. When you wanted to print, your computer would use special software called “printer drivers” – essentially translators that helped your computer talk to your printer. But here’s the problem: these drivers have become a major security weakness.

Hackers figured out how to exploit printer drivers to break into computer systems. Remember hearing about cyberattacks like “Print Nightmare”? These attacks used printer drivers as their entry point. It was like leaving your front door unlocked while focusing on securing your windows.

Microsoft’s solution? Windows Protected Print Mode – a system that essentially eliminates these vulnerable printer drivers entirely. Instead of using custom drivers for each printer, WPP uses a standardized, secure method called Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) to communicate with printers.

The Good News About WPP:

• Much more secure – eliminates a major way hackers attack computers
• Simpler setup – no more hunting for the right driver on manufacturer websites
• More reliable – fewer compatibility issues after Windows updates
• Works the same way across different types of computers

The Challenge:

WPP only works with Mopria-certified printers. Mopria is like a stamp of approval that says “this printer speaks the universal printing language.” While many modern printers have this certification, older printers and some specialized equipment might not.

The ARM Revolution: A New Type of Computer Brain

Meanwhile, there’s another revolution happening in the computer world. Traditional computers use processors (the “brain” of the computer) made by companies like Intel and AMD. But now, many new computers are using ARM processors, particularly Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chips.

You might already be familiar with ARM processors – they’re what power your smartphone and tablet. They’re incredibly energy-efficient, which means much longer battery life for laptops. Some of the newest ARM-based laptops can run for 15-20 hours on a single charge, compared to 6-8 hours for traditional laptops.

Why ARM Matters for Printing:

Here’s where it gets tricky. Those old printer drivers we mentioned? They were designed for Intel and AMD processors. ARM processors can’t run these traditional printer drivers at all. It’s like trying to play a DVD in a Blu-ray player – the formats just aren’t compatible.

When Two Changes Collide

Now imagine you’re a business that just bought new ARM-based laptops for your employees because of their amazing battery life. Suddenly, you discover that none of your existing printers work properly with these new computers. You can print basic documents, but advanced features like:

• Stapling multi-page documents
• Printing booklets
• Using special paper sizes
• Color calibration for professional prints
• Secure printing (where you enter a code at the printer to release your job)

Many of these features simply don’t work because they relied on those old, incompatible drivers. Here is where using Print Support Apps becomes the solution. Visit Microsoft Store for specific manufacturer PSA. Bellow is information on Canon’s and HP’s PSA.

What This Means for Different Users

For Home Users:

If you have a modern printer (especially one bought in the last 2-3 years), you’ll likely be fine. Basic printing and scanning will work without any issues. You might actually find printing becomes more reliable and secure.

For Small Businesses:

You’ll need to check if your current printers are Mopria-certified. If they’re not, you might need to replace them or keep some older computers around just for printing complex documents.

For Large Organizations:

This is where the impact is most significant. Companies with production printing needs – think offices that regularly print reports, marketing materials, or documents with specific formatting requirements – face the biggest challenges. They might need to:

• Audit all their printing equipment
• Maintain separate computers just for advanced printing
• Redesign their printing workflows
• Budget for new equipment

The Timeline: What to Expect

Right Now (2024-2025):

• Windows Protected Print is available but not mandatory
• ARM computers are becoming more common
• Most people can choose whether to use the new system

Soon (2025-2027):

• Microsoft plans to make Windows Protected Print the default
• More ARM-based computers will enter the market
• Printer manufacturers will release more compatible equipment

Future (2027+):

• Traditional printer drivers may be phased out entirely
• ARM processors may become the standard for most laptops
• The printing industry will have largely adapted to the new standards

What Should You Do?

Before Buying New Equipment:

1. Check compatibility – If you’re buying a new computer, especially an ARM-based one, verify it works with your existing printers
2. Research printers – When buying a new printer, look for “Mopria certified” on the box
3. Test first – If possible, try printing your typical documents before committing to new equipment

If You’re Already Affected:

1. Update your printer firmware – Many printers can be updated to support the new standards
2. Check manufacturer websites – Look for ARM-compatible software or updated drivers
3. Consider hybrid solutions – Keep one traditional computer for complex printing while using ARM computers for everything else

The Silver Lining

While this transition period is challenging, the end result will be better for everyone:

• More secure printing that’s less vulnerable to cyberattacks
• Longer battery life on laptops and mobile devices
• Simpler setup – no more driver hunting
• More reliable printing across different devices and operating systems

Looking Ahead

The printing industry is going through its biggest transformation in decades. While the short-term challenges are real, especially for businesses with complex printing needs, the long-term benefits of increased security, reliability, and efficiency will make this transition worthwhile.

The key is staying informed and planning ahead. Whether you’re a home user, small business owner, or IT manager, understanding these changes now will help you make better decisions about your printing infrastructure going forward.

As with any major technology shift, early adopters will face more challenges, but they’ll also be the first to benefit from improved security and performance. The printing revolution is here – the question is whether you’ll be ready for it.

Ready to future-proof your printing infrastructure? Contact us today for a comprehensive compatibility assessment. We’ll help you understand exactly how Windows Protected Print and ARM processors will impact your specific environment—and what you can do about it before it becomes a crisis.

Because when it comes to enterprise printing, reactive solutions are always more expensive than proactive planning.