Microsoft Alert for USB Printer Users

Microsoft has issued a warning that users of certain USB printers have been experiencing bizarre behavior after installing Windows updates from late January 2025. This significant issue affects users on Windows 10 (version 22H2) and Windows 11 (versions 22H2 and 23H2). Fortunately, the latest version of Windows 11, 24H2, is not impacted by this glitch.

Affected users have reported that their USB printers are spontaneously printing out random strings of text, including what appears to be network commands and nonsensical characters. In many instances, printed text starts with the header: "POST /ipp/print HTTP/1.1," pointing to problems with the Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) connections.

The frequency of these erratic print jobs tends to escalate when users turn their printers on or reconnect them after disconnection. It seems the printing issues are triggered whenever the system's print spooler sends IPP protocol messages to the affected printers, particularly those with dual-mode printer capabilities that support both USB Print and IPP over USB.

Microsoft's Response: A Rollback Resolution

To address this pressing concern, Microsoft has employed a feature known as Known Issue Rollback (KIR). This capability allows the company to reverse problematic non-security updates rolled out through Windows Update. Users can expect the automatic rollout of this fix in an upcoming update.

For Windows enterprise-managed devices facing this problem, IT administrators must take specific steps to correct the issue. This includes installing designated group policies:

- For Windows 11 22H2: KB5050092 250131_150523 Known Issue Rollback

- For Windows 10 22H2, 21H1, 21H2, and 22H2: KB5050081 250131_082569 Known Issue Rollback

After installation, the group policy can be located under Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates. To deploy the KIR, IT admins should navigate to either the Local Computer Policy or the Domain policy on the domain controller via the Group Policy Editor. Once the appropriate Windows version is targeted, a restart of the affected devices is required for the new policy settings to take effect.

Why This Matters: Implications for Users

As print issues could disrupt workflow and productivity, users are urged to stay informed about Microsoft’s updates and fixes. This situation highlights the complexity of modern technology, where updates intended to improve system performance can sometimes lead to unforeseen complications.

Stay vigilant and check back regularly for further updates from Microsoft regarding this issue, as the company works to ensure that all user experiences are smooth and efficient.