Microsoft warns of USB printer failures after Windows update

Microsoft has identified a Problem with printers connected via USB that generates the printing of random text after installing an update recent Windows. This bug affects devices running Windows 10 (22H2) and Windows 11 (22H2 and 23H2). However, Windows 24 version 2H11 does not appear to be affected.. For more information about this release, visit Windows 11 24H2.

Printers may print random data after being turned on.

Since Microsoft released update KB5050092 on January 29, 2025, Some users have reported that their printers start printing nonsensical characters. every time the device is turned on or reconnected. This erratic behavior also includes the playback of network commands and other unusual text, a situation that has generated confusion and inconvenience among those affected. This problem can be frustrating, especially if you rely on your printer for daily work.

The failure appears to be specifically linked to Dual-mode printers that support both USB Print and IPP Over USB protocols. This means that every time the printing system attempts to communicate with the printer using these protocols, Unwanted data is sent to the printer, generating meaningless printed pagesUsers are advised to check their printers for these protocols to determine if they are susceptible to the issue.

For those who need additional information on printer configuration, it is recommended to consult how Install a Wi-Fi printer on Windows 11.

Microsoft deploys an automatic solution

To mitigate the impact of this problem, Microsoft has implemented a solution through the Known Issue Rollback (KIR) system.. This mechanism remotely disables the modifications that introduced the error without requiring users to make manual changes to their devices.

The company has noted that The KIR system should correct the problem within 24 to 48 hours.. However, some users may need to restart their computers several times for the settings to be applied correctly. In the meantime, other solutions can be considered. problems in Windows that may arise with the system.

Manual solution for business environments

For system administrators in corporate environments, Microsoft has provided a manual alternative using group policies. A specific policy must be configured that allows you to revert the change in the affected versions of Windows. This can be done accessing Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates in the Group Policy Editor y selecting the version of Windows to fix.

Following the implementation of this policy, It is necessary to restart the affected devices for the changes to take effect. Microsoft has published more details and specific steps on its support page to help administrators successfully implement the solution. Administrators should be aware of the situation to avoid impacting productivity in their organizations.

If you have recently updated your system and your USB printer has been affected, It is advisable to be alert for new Windows updatesMicrosoft will continue to monitor the situation and is likely to release an additional update in the future to prevent similar issues.