Microsoft stopped publishing new legacy printer drivers to Windows Update on January 15, 2026. The change affects V3 and V4 driver architectures that primarily support older hardware.
Windows 11 and Windows Server 2025 users can no longer install new printer drivers through Windows Update. Microsoft announced the legacy driver deprecation in September 2023 as part of broader platform modernization.
The company's phased timeline continues through July 1, 2027. After that date, third-party printer driver updates delivered via Windows Update will be restricted to security-related fixes only. This follows similar Microsoft modernization efforts like the retirement of Exchange Web Services.
Existing printers will continue working with current drivers. Users can obtain future updates directly from manufacturers rather than through Microsoft's update service.
Microsoft notes most newer printers use modern driver architectures and won't be affected. The change targets legacy systems that still rely on outdated V3 and V4 protocols.
From July 1, 2026, Windows will prioritize built-in Microsoft IPP class drivers when multiple options are available. This internal ranking adjustment precedes the complete driver update restriction.
The policy follows Windows 10 21H2 changes that reduced manufacturer dependency on custom installers. Microsoft's modern print platform aims to standardize driver distribution across devices.
Printers requiring legacy drivers may fail to install or stop working after the deadlines. Manufacturers must provide their own installation packages for continued support.
Microsoft's phased approach gives users and manufacturers over a year to transition. The company described the change as "an impactful change" that will be "staged over multiple years."
The driver policy shift coincides with broader Windows 11 adoption. Valve reports Windows 11 now runs on over 66% of systems participating in Steam hardware surveys. Some Windows 11 updates have faced compatibility issues with gaming hardware.
