Microsoft Addresses the Most Frustrating Windows Issue of 2025

If you’re a Windows user, you know that updates can sometimes introduce frustrating bugs. With each new roll-out, issues can arise, and one particularly persistent problem has been the USB printer bug affecting dual-mode printers. Fortunately, as of March 2025, Microsoft has taken steps to resolve this annoyance.

Resolving USB Printer Issues: The Latest Microsoft Updates

Microsoft is stepping up to rectify the nagging bug that led to USB-connected dual-mode printers spewing out random text and data after specific updates. This glitch was officially addressed in the March 2025 KB5053643 optional update for Windows 10, version 22H2.

Additionally, for users running Windows 11, the situation has been remedied within the KB5053657 optional update for 23H2. However, those on Windows 11 version 24H2 will have to exercise patience as they await the fix, scheduled for March 27, 2025. Microsoft also plans a more widespread launch of the fix during April’s Patch Tuesday updates.

The support documentation details the fix, stating, “[Printers] Fixed: USB-connected dual-mode printers that support both US Print and IPP Over USB protocols might unexpectedly output incorrect or unwanted text.”Initially, Microsoft suggested a workaround through the Known Issue Rollback (KIR), enabling system administrators to mitigate the problem without uninstalling the entire update. This feature, while helpful for some Windows Pro users, wasn’t universally effective.

Person examining a printer on a desk — Have a nice day Photo/Shutterstock

Recently, Microsoft acknowledged this bug through the Windows Health Dashboard, revealing that it primarily affected dual-mode USB printers that could output incorrect random data. Symptoms often manifested with the header “POST /ipp/print HTTP/1.1“, showcasing network commands interspersed with bizarre characters and IPP headers.

Users reported that the glitch would crop up, especially when printers were turned on or reconnected after a period of disconnection. This bug was most likely encountered by those who had installed the non-security preview update K2050092 issued on January 29, 2025, or any updates afterward.

Microsoft highly recommends that users install the latest updates promptly, which include various critical improvements beyond the printer fix. So, if you have experienced issues with printing, now is the time to take action: install the optional March updates to restore your printer’s normal function. If not, a global solution will be rolled out with April’s Patch Tuesday updates, giving users another opportunity for relief.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the USB printer bug introduced in recent Windows updates?

The USB printer bug refers to a glitch in Windows that causes dual-mode printers connected via USB to print random text and data. This often includes network commands and unusual characters, making the documents essentially unreadable.

2. How can I resolve the USB printer bug on my Windows device?

You can resolve the USB printer bug by installing the latest optional updates—KB5053643 for Windows 10 or KB5053657 for Windows 11. These updates fix the printer issues and restore normal printing functionality.

3. What should I do if I can’t wait for the April Patch Tuesday update?

If you cannot wait for the April update, it’s critical to install the optional updates from March as soon as possible. This will not only address the printer bug but also include other important improvements and fixes to enhance your Windows experience.

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