Microsoft has identified a problem affecting USB printers following Windows updates released since late January 2025. The issue causes printers to unexpectedly print random text and data, including network commands and unusual characters.

## Affected Systems

The problem impacts:
– Windows 10 (version 22H2)
– Windows 11 (versions 22H2 and 23H2)

Windows 11 24H2 is not affected by this issue.

## Problem Details

The issue specifically affects dual-mode USB printers that support both USB Print and IPP Over USB protocols. Users experiencing this problem will notice:

– Random text printing that often begins with “POST /ipp/print HTTP/1.1” header
– Other Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) related headers
– More frequent printing issues when the printer is turned on or reconnected
– Unexpected printing when the print spooler sends IPP protocol messages

## Solution: Known Issue Rollback

Microsoft has resolved the issue through Known Issue Rollback (KIR), a feature that reverses problematic non-security updates. The fix will automatically roll out in a future Windows update.

For enterprise-managed devices, IT administrators must install specific group policies:

– **Windows 11 22H2**: KB5050092 250131_150523 Known Issue Rollback
– **Windows 10 22H2, 21H1, 21H2 and 22H2**: KB5050081 250131_082569 Known Issue Rollback

After installation, the Group Policy can be found under Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates. Affected devices must be restarted to apply the policy settings.

Microsoft provides additional guidance for deploying KIR Group Policies on their support website.

In related news, Microsoft recently lifted a compatibility hold that had blocked some AutoCAD users from upgrading to Windows 11 24H2 due to launch and crash issues.