This is because Microsoft has only stopped accepting or publishing new third-party v3/v4 printer drivers to Windows Update for Windows 11+. If you read headlines that claim Windows printers are being ...

Microsoft is phasing out new printer driver updates via Windows Update for older printers in Windows 11 starting in 2026, ...

Microsoft blocks legacy V3 and V4 printer drivers in Windows 11, advising users to update or switch to modern printing ...

You want to print something, but what if Windows 11 can’t find your printer? A classic case of technology with an opinion of its own: The printer is there and switched on. Still, it doesn’t show up.

The change will only affect how new drivers are distributed.