Is Wireless Printing Safe?

Last Updated on August 14, 2023 by Christian Ralph

Implementing wireless printing in the home or at the office can help make a wide range of printing, copying, scanning and faxing tasks quicker, simpler and more efficient. Removing the need for wired connectivity, wireless printing can accommodate simple printing from a range of different mobile devices.

Wireless printing is becoming more and more prevalent in both professional and domestic settings. However, like all connected technologies, wireless printers have been targeted by certain groups of troublemakers and hackers – looking to use the systems as entry points to access private information or simply wreak havoc.

So if you are concerned that implementing wireless printing could compromise the safety and security of your home or office – we answer the big question: is wireless printing safe?

Potential Hacks

A wireless printer may seem like an unusual technology to try and remotely hack. What could a hacker really hope to achieve? Print their own documents and files from somebody else’s machine – using their ink or toner and paper? This seems like minimal gain for maximum effort.

Unfortunately, this isn’t the only form that the hacking of a wireless printer could take – an intruder may be able to access previous print jobs saved on the printer’s hard drive. All printers utilise an operating system to process print jobs and these will store previous print jobs unless deleted and wiped. A hacker may be able to copy important and private information from the hard drive of the printer – potentially accessing information which could compromise business operations.

Suggested Solutions

Unfortunately for every skilled hacker, there are teams of software and hardware developers determined to provide layer upon layer of security for printers and other technologies to ensure that all users and their printed output are protected. All of the top printer manufacturers have scores of security professionals employed to help protect all users of their products. This makes it highly advisable to install the manufacturer’s security software and keep it updated.

The WiFi connection of the printer should also be protected by a WPA2 access point, rather than a WEP. This can make it harder for potential hackers to access the WiFi, and infiltrate any connected devices.

Where possible, bypass the internal hard drive during print jobs and print directly from the RAM. This will ensure the print jobs are not stored on the drive, and are not susceptible to attack. Similarly, if you are given the option, overwrite the data stored on the hard drive immediately after printing.

Implement password or PIN protection to ensure that only authorised personnel can access the printer and its functions. If the printer is used by multiple parties, add IDs to every individual’s account so all action can be traced back to source. This could deter improper use and add culpability to any hacks or leaks.

So in summary, wireless printing is incredibly safe as long as the users pay due diligence and respect to the technology.

At Printerland, we stock a huge selection of wireless printers from all the top brands and manufacturers. For a full product list, visit the Printerland homepage, or call our dedicated team on 0800 840 1992.