Microsoft highlights the printing flaws on Windows 11

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Key notes

  • Organizations trying to install printers via the IPP encountered significant setbacks. 
  • Users still running older Windows versions should install the October Patch Tuesday cumulative updates to fix the printing issues.
  • Redmond is working on a Windows 11 patch update.

Are you experiencing any issues with your print server after installing Windows 11 on your PC? Well, you are not alone in this. Microsoft has come forward and highlighted that bugs are hindering Windows 11 PCs from installing printers in enterprise networks. 

HTTP connections

The first printing issue was discovered in Windows PCs accessing printers through HTTP connections. Directory mismatch would immediately occur when one tries to connect to the server to install the printer. Subsequently, causing the installer files to generate incorrectly and downloading the drivers becomes difficult. 

Microsoft also identified that organizations faced an issue. This is especially when trying to install printers through the Internet Printing Protocol (IPP). 

Microsoft indicates that it has had its fair share of challenges this year, thanks to the PrintNightmare. In June, an exploit PoC accidentally leaked, which led to the genesis of the PrintNightmare. Consequently, the leak prompted Microsoft to issue an emergency out of band patch.

Security researchers at Sangfor were able to spot this flaw when it became active after the group accidentally released the proof-of-concept (PoC). The attackers, therefore, gained knowledge on how to exploit the flaw fully. They could gain system-level privileges by simply conducting remote execution code attacks. 

The PrintNightmare menace

PrintNightmare made a comeback in August. In September, reports indicated that the new patches also had some setbacks. This is despite the patches. Microsoft had no other choice other than to take action again.

On the bright side, the Redmond giant is currently working on a Windows 11 patch update to help mend these bugs. But in the meantime, Microsoft encourages IT admins to copy packaged drivers manually. Alternatively, the admins could also tweak the printer settings on the Windows 11 machines. 

Nevertheless, if you are still running older versions of Windows, you can install the October Patch Tuesday cumulative updates. This will help you sort out your printing challenges.

Have you been facing any challenges when printing, especially after installing Windows 11? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section below.Â