As businesses continue to modernise their IT infrastructure, many are embracing Windows 11 for its enhanced performance, improved interface and advanced security features. But while the operating system itself may be more secure, the transition can inadvertently expose older IT hardware, such as legacy printers, scanners and photocopiers, to new cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
The Hidden Risks of Legacy Devices
Printers and photocopiers are often overlooked in cybersecurity strategies, yet they remain fully functional endpoints in any networked environment. These devices, particularly older models, were not designed with today’s security threats in mind. When paired with a modern OS like Windows 11, compatibility issues and outdated firmware can open the door to new vulnerabilities.
Why Windows 11 Can Be a Double-Edged Sword
Windows 11 introduces tighter security controls, including hardware-based protections like TPM 2.0 and secure boot. While these improvements bolster overall network security, they can also render older drivers and protocols obsolete. This incompatibility may lead businesses to:
- Disable security features to get legacy devices working
- Keep unsupported drivers running, increasing exposure to exploits
- Connect devices outside the network (e.g., via USB) and bypass protections
Each of these workarounds weakens the security posture of an organisation.
The Risk of Unpatched Firmware
Legacy print devices often run on outdated firmware that is no longer supported or updated by the manufacturer. In many cases, vendors have stopped releasing security patches, leaving these devices vulnerable to exploits like:
- Man-in-the-middle attacks through unencrypted print jobs
- Network infiltration via unsecured print ports
- Data breaches from cached documents stored on internal hard drives
Once a device is exposed, attackers can use it as a stepping stone to access more critical systems.
Recommendations for a Secure Transition
If your organisation is planning or has recently upgraded to Windows 11, it’s essential to evaluate the security implications of your legacy print infrastructure. Here’s what you can do:
- Audit your print fleet: Identify devices that are no longer receiving firmware updates or security patches
- Segment print devices from critical systems: Use VLANs or firewall rules to isolate older devices
- Enable secure print protocols: Switch to protocols like IPPS and disable unsecured ones like FTP or Telnet
- Replace end-of-life devices: In many cases, upgrading to secure, cloud-ready printers is more cost-effective in the long term
Windows 11 is a leap forward in security and usability, but it should not be treated as a silver bullet. Legacy IT equipment, particularly in the print environment, can undermine even the most advanced operating systems if not properly addressed.
Key Digital can provide a free consultation as a trusted partner to assess risk and recommend secure, modern alternatives. Get in touch to arrange by calling 01282 479466 or email info@key-digital.co.uk
As the saying goes, a chain is only as strong as its weakest link. Don’t let legacy hardware become yours.