Overview
Is your print environment ready for Windows Protected Print?
From 1 July 2027, Microsoft is phasing out third party printer drivers and moving Windows towards a simpler, more secure and easier to manage printing model based on the built-in Internet Protocol Printing (IPP) class driver. When Windows Protected Print (WPP) mode is turned on, all traditional print drivers are removed and only IPP class drivers are available to use. On its own, the generic IPP driver may remove many of the printer specific features your organisation and users rely on every day.
The RICOH Print Support Application restores functionality your users expect from Ricoh devices, with an improved user experience and without installing a traditional driver. It is free to download from the Microsoft Store, simple to deploy and updates automatically. Ensuring advanced printing on Ricoh devices remains secure and reliable across your Windows environment.
Why Ricoh
Why choose Ricoh for your Managed Print Services?
We’re committed to keeping your print environment running as Windows evolves. As Microsoft moves to driverless printing, Ricoh provides the RICOH Print Support Application for advance functionality and will continue to service existing Ricoh printer drivers after Microsoft’s support for third-party drivers ends, giving you a clear, supported path forward.
As your managed print partner, Ricoh help you assess your current print landscape, plan the transition, deploy the application across your fleet, and combine it with services such as RICOH Streamline NX, RICOH Smart Integration or Microsoft Universal Print for secure, efficient and reliable printing. Our print software range adds even more value, helping you simplify management, strengthen security and support smarter print workflows across your organisation through the Ricoh software portfolio.
Are you ready for Microsoft’s print security changes?
"Printing isn’t being removed, but the old way of doing it is. Microsoft is moving to a more secure, modern print model phasing out legacy drivers and reducing risk."
Frequently Asked Questions
Answering common questions about Ricoh Support Application.
Why is the RICOH Print Support Application necessary?
Microsoft has announced it will phase out support for third-party printer drivers on Windows, including Ricoh drivers, on a timeline running through 2027. Windows is moving to a driverless model using the generic IPP Class Driver, which lacks many printer-specific features. The RICOH Print Support Application restores Ricoh-specific functionality in this driverless environment.
How much does the RICOH Print Support Application cost?
It is free to download and use. You can download from the Microsoft Store, and it is installed automatically when you add a supported printer via Mopria.
What is Windows Protected Print Mode (WPP) and does the application support it?
WPP is a Windows 11 feature that improves security with driverless printing; when enabled, it blocks and removes traditional printer drivers. The RICOH Print Support Application allows you to keep printing to Ricoh devices with WPP enabled.
Does the RICOH Print Support Application work on Windows on ARM devices?
Will my existing devices, drivers and features work with the RICOH Print Support Application?
Most current Ricoh printers and multifunction devices are supported by the RICOH Print Support Application. (For the full list of compatible products, please visit our support website)
Existing Ricoh printer drivers will continue to be serviced, but as Windows moves towards driverless printing, organisations should plan to transition away from traditional drivers over time.
The application restores many of the most commonly used printing features, such as finishing, secure print, tray selection and authentication. While not all advanced features are available, it ensures a consistent and reliable print experience in driverless Windows environments
How do I know if I will be affected by WPP?
On Windows, search for and open the ‘Print Management’ console. Go to ‘All Drivers’, and under the ‘Provider’ column any existing drivers NOT showing as "Microsoft" will be impacted by Windows Protected Print mode and you should consider a Microsoft IPP class alternative, such as the RICOH Print Support Application. If you’re not sure, please contact Ricoh and we can help.
Talk to an expert
Get ready for the change to Windows printing
Talk to a Ricoh print specialist about deploying the RICOH Print Support Application across your organisation, or request a quote for Ricoh Managed Print Services.
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