Don’t Let Your Wide-Format Printer Be a Weak Link in Your Network Security.

Secure Your Wide-Format Printer to Reduce Network Security Threats

Wide-format printers can sometimes fly under the radar in network security. They are replaced less often and unlike smaller multifunction printers, they can be perceived as just simple output devices. However, these printers are still complex network-connected endpoints, many with built-in hard drives that, if left unprotected, can be a gateway to access your network, data, or creative work.

One eye-opening example: cybersecurity experts at Cybernews identified 500,000 unsecured printers globally and chose to highjack nearly 28,000 of them to print unauthorized documents as an alert to their owners. This experiment revealed how vulnerable printers can be when basic security protocols are overlooked.

10 Steps to Secure Your Wide-Format Printers

Follow these proven best practices to reduce security risks

1. Implement firewalls – Block unauthorized access from outside the network.
2. Segment your network – Contain potential breaches by isolating printers on separate VLANs.
3. Change default usernames and passwords – Default credentials are a major security loophole.
4. Disable unused ports and Bluetooth – Limit attack pathways by disabling unneeded services.
5. Keep firmware updated – Use automatic firmware updates to patch security vulnerabilities.
6. Encrypt hard drives – Protect sensitive data during transmission and storage.
7. Train your employees – Ensure your staff understands basic printer security hygiene.
8. Use pull printing – Require users to authenticate at the device to release print jobs.
9. Deploy print security management software – This enables small IT teams to effectively monitor and manage printer security.
10. Select secure hardware – Choose printers with built-in endpoint protection, such as secure boot processes and run-time intrusion detection.

The Impact of Windows Protected Print Mode (WPP)

Microsoft's Windows Protected Print Mode (WPP) aims to improve print security by replacing third-party drivers and print management systems with the default Windows driver. While many wide-format printers have their own custom software and not third-party drivers, it’s important to audit your machines to be prepared for WPP.

“Implementation of WPP is changing how files are sent to wide format printers,” said Brian Eastin, wide format systems specialist with RJ Young. “Manufacturers are working on new print submission tools that will retain a familiar interface experience for our customers while still being compatible with new security requirements. Our service technicians and analysts are helping our customers transition to this new approach.”

The Advantage of Built-In Printer Firmware Security

The HP DesignJet XL 3800 large-format multifunction printer features HP Wolf Security Firmware, a hardware-enforced security built into HP printers.

Secure Boot with Firmware Validation – Validates the BIOS code at every boot cycle, streamlining security at network endpoints.

Write Protected Memory - Prevents unauthorized changes to the printer's firmware and data while it's running.

Self-Healing Capabilities - Automatically recovers from attacks without burdening IT teams.

Whitelisting - Verifies the authenticity of firmware. Any sign of tampering reboots the printer to a secure state.

HP Connection Inspector - Monitors and stops suspicious network activity, preventing threats from spreading.

Wide-format printers may seem like innocuous output devices, but if left unsecured, they can be a security liability. As cyber threats evolve, proactive printer security is essential—especially when new frameworks like WPP shift the print ecosystem.

Simplified Security Starts with the Right Equipment and the Right Team

At RJ Young, we simplify printer security for businesses of all sizes—from small operations to enterprise organizations. Our team works closely with you to safeguard sensitive intellectual property, especially in today’s landscape of cloud-based printing.

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