Microsoft Blocks Windows 11 2022 Update on Select PCs Due to Printing Issues

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Microsoft started rolling out the Windows 11 2022 Update (22H2) last week, but the company was forced to put some upgrade blocks in place due to bugs and other problems. Microsoft has just discovered new compatibility issues that affect devices with printers that use the Microsoft IPP Class Driver or Universal Print Class Driver.

On the Windows Health Dashboard, Microsoft explained that the bug prevents affected Windows 11 devices from accessing some printer-specific features, including paper size and type settings.

“Windows needs connectivity to the printer to identify all the features of the printer. Without connectivity, the printer is set up with default settings and in some scenarios might not get updated once connectivity to the printer is restored. You might be affected by this issue if your printer is unable to use printer specific features such as color, two-sided/duplex printing, paper size or type settings, or resolutions higher than 300x300dpi,” Microsoft explained.

Microsoft has placed an upgrade block to prevent PCs running the affected printer drivers from installing the Windows 11 2022 Update. The company has also recommended that users should not upgrade their devices manually.

How to fix Windows 11 2022 Update printing issues

Microsoft says that it’s currently working on a fix that should be available in an upcoming update. In the meantime, it has provided the following workaround to help users mitigate the problem on affected systems.

  1. IT admins will need to uninstall all printers that are using the Microsoft IPP Class Driver or Universal Print Class Driver.
  2. It may take up to 48 hours before the Windows 11 2022 Update is offered on your device. Users should restart their PCs and then click the Check for updates button in Windows Update.
  3. Once the feature update has been installed, users can reinstall the impacted printer on the Windows device.

In addition to these printing issues, Microsoft says that there is also an upgrade block in place for some Intel PCs. The company has discovered that the Windows 11 2022 Update has an incompatibility issue with some Intel Smart Sound Technology (SST) audio drivers on Rocket Lake processors. Microsoft recommends updating the affected Intel SST driver by navigating to Settings > Update and Security > Windows Update > View Optional Updates.