No, Windows 11 isn’t killing millions of printers, but it’s ending new V3/V4 drivers on Windows Update

Microsoft has ceased releasing V3 and V4 printer drivers via Windows Update since January 2026, but existing printers relying on these drivers are still supported. The phasing out of these drivers began with Windows 10 version 21H2, which now includes built-in support for Mopria-compliant printers. While new V3/V4 drivers won't be published on Windows Update for Windows 11+, existing drivers can still be installed through separate packages. Contrary to misconceptions, older printers using V3/V4 drivers will not stop working after January 2026, as Microsoft continues to support all drivers and printers.