Windows 11 Update Causes USB Printers to Print Random Gibberish
Microsoft confirms a bug in the January 2025 preview update that affects dual-mode USB printers, with a fix available through Known Issue Rollback.
- The issue arises from Windows 11 23H2 update KB5050092, released as a preview in late January 2025, and impacts dual-mode USB printers supporting USB Print and IPP over USB protocols.
- Affected printers may print unexpected text, often starting with 'POST /ipp/print HTTP/1.1,' due to the print spooler sending IPP protocol messages to the printer.
- The bug is more likely to occur when printers are powered on or reconnected after being disconnected, leading to wasted ink and paper.
- Microsoft has addressed the issue with Known Issue Rollback (KIR), allowing users and IT admins to reverse the problematic update and restore normal printer functionality.
- A permanent fix is under development and will be included in a future Windows update, according to Microsoft.