Printing should be one of those things that just works, but anyone who has managed an office IT estate knows that printers can quickly become a source of frustration. Missing drivers, failed installations, incompatible updates and vendor-specific (often massive) packages are all common reasons for helpdesk calls.
Microsoft’s Windows Ready Print feature is designed to make this easier. When a printer gets added, Windows can automatically download the required driver through Windows Update instead of relying on IT staff to manually install the correct package. This is especially useful for small and medium-sized businesses where there may not be a dedicated IT team on site every day.
What are IPP printer drivers?
IPP stands for Internet Printing Protocol. In simple terms, it is a standards-based way for computers and printers to communicate. Many modern printers support IPP, and it is also closely linked to driverless printing technologies such as AirPrint and Mopria.
With Windows Ready Print, Microsoft can provide IPP printer drivers for compatible printers. This means Windows may be able to use a more generic, standards-based driver rather than a printer manufacturer’s traditional driver. For many everyday printing tasks, that can reduce complexity and make setup faster.
Why this matters for businesses
The main benefit is simplicity. If staff are using Windows 11 devices across an office, home setup or hybrid working environment, having printers install with fewer manual steps can save time. It also reduces the risk of users downloading the wrong driver from the internet, which can create security and support issues.
IPP-based printing can also help with consistency. Instead of different printer models each requiring their own driver package, Windows can often handle compatible printers using a more standardised approach. That can make device setup, onboarding and support easier for IT managers.
Ready Print and IPP drivers are helpful, but they are not a magic fix for every printing issue. Some printers may still need manufacturer drivers for advanced features such as secure print, booklet printing, stapling, scanning functions or detailed print management. Compatibility also depends on the printer model, Windows version and how the printer is connected.
If your business still relies on older printers or older versions of Windows, it is worth reviewing your print setup before problems arise. A quick audit of printers, Windows versions and driver types can reveal whether Ready Print and IPP drivers could reduce your IT workload.