--- title: How Secure are Network Printers? description: Protect your print fleet. Here’s what to do to ensure that you don’t leave an opening for a cybercriminal to access your networked data through your printer. image: https://www.gflesch.com/hubfs/2025-Blog-Header-HowSecureAreNetworkPrinters.png --- [![Gordon Flesch Logo](https://www.gflesch.com/hubfs/Gordon-Flesch-Site/Logos/GFC-2021-Logo_Blue.svg) ](https://www.gflesch.com/) **Number 1 Canon®** Independent Dealer in the U.S. **Number 1 Lexmark™** Independent Dealer in the U.S. [CLIENT PORTAL](https://einfo.gflesch.com/einfo/Gateway/Login)  |  [LOCATIONS](https://www.gflesch.com/contact-us#locations)  |  [EVENTS](https://www.gflesch.com/events)  |  [CONTACT ](https://www.gflesch.com/contact-us) |  [CAREERS](https://www.gflesch.com/careers) [![FREE ASSESSMENT](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2259185/d975359c-4073-49ee-9a07-aea2dabf5a9f.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2259185/d975359c-4073-49ee-9a07-aea2dabf5a9f) Search gflesch.com Open Menu #### [Hardware](https://www.gflesch.com/hardware) #### [Managed Print](https://www.gflesch.com/managed-print-services) [![ImageCARE](https://www.gflesch.com/hubfs/GFC/Website/Logos/ImageCARE_logo.svg "ImageCARE")](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/what-is-imagecare) #### [Managed Voice Services](https://www.elevityit.com/managed-voice-services) #### [Managed IT](https://www.elevityit.com/) [![Elevity](https://www.gflesch.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Elevity/Elevity-Logo_No-Tag.png?width=165&height=61&name=Elevity-Logo_No-Tag.png "Elevity")](https://www.elevityit.com/) #### [Who We Serve](https://www.gflesch.com/who-we-serve) #### [The GFC Difference](https://www.gflesch.com/the-gfc-difference) ![GFC team after bike 4k](https://www.gflesch.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Gordon-Flesch-Site/Page-Images/Careers/13937955_732396103564956_2200806867025572720_o_600x400Web.jpg?width=600&height=400&name=13937955_732396103564956_2200806867025572720_o_600x400Web.jpg "GFC team after bike 4k") Explore opportunities to join one of the country’s largest independent business technology providers! [CURRENT POSITIONS](https://www.gflesch.com/current-positions)[BENEFITS](https://www.gflesch.com/careers#benefits) #### [Resources](https://www.gflesch.com/resource-library) ![support_icon](https://www.gflesch.com/hubfs/2020_website/icons/support_icon.svg "support_icon") #### Technical Support Quick Help [SERVICE CALL](https://einfo.gflesch.com/einfo/Gateway/Login?ReturnUrl=%2feinfo) ![ImageCARE_logo](https://www.gflesch.com/hubfs/2020_website/logos/ImageCARE_logo.svg "ImageCARE_logo") #### [Managed Print Blog](https://www.gflesch.com/blog) #### [Customer Support](https://www.gflesch.com/customer-support) ![phone_icon](https://www.gflesch.com/hubfs/2020_website/icons/phone_icon.svg "phone_icon") #### [Contact Us](https://www.gflesch.com/contact-us) Toll Free: 800.333.5905 Corporate Headquarters: 2675 Research Park Drive Madison, WI 53711 [![GFC Logo](https://www.gflesch.com/hubfs/2020_website/logos/GFC_badge.svg) ](https://www.gflesch.com/) ** ** ** #### [Hardware](https://www.gflesch.com/hardware) #### [Managed Print](https://www.gflesch.com/managed-print-services) [![ImageCARE](https://www.gflesch.com/hubfs/GFC/Website/Logos/ImageCARE_logo.svg "ImageCARE")](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/what-is-imagecare) #### [Managed Voice Services](https://www.elevityit.com/managed-voice-services) #### [Managed IT](https://www.elevityit.com/) [![Elevity](https://www.gflesch.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Elevity/Elevity-Logo_No-Tag.png?width=165&height=61&name=Elevity-Logo_No-Tag.png "Elevity")](https://www.elevityit.com/) #### [Who We Serve](https://www.gflesch.com/who-we-serve) #### [The GFC Difference](https://www.gflesch.com/the-gfc-difference) ![GFC team after bike 4k](https://www.gflesch.com/hubfs/Gordon-Flesch-Site/Page-Images/Careers/13937955_732396103564956_2200806867025572720_o_600x400Web.jpg "GFC team after bike 4k") Explore opportunities to join one of the country’s largest independent business technology providers! [CURRENT POSITIONS](https://www.gflesch.com/current-positions)     [BENEFITS](https://www.gflesch.com/careers#benefits) #### [Resources](https://www.gflesch.com/resource-library) ![support_icon](https://www.gflesch.com/hubfs/2020_website/icons/support_icon.svg "support_icon") #### Technical Support Quick Help [SERVICE CALL](https://einfo.gflesch.com/einfo/Gateway/Login?ReturnUrl=%2feinfo) ![ImageCARE_logo](https://www.gflesch.com/hubfs/2020_website/logos/ImageCARE_logo.svg "ImageCARE_logo") #### [Managed Print Blog](https://www.gflesch.com/blog) #### [Customer Support](https://www.gflesch.com/customer-support) ![phone_icon](https://www.gflesch.com/hubfs/2020_website/icons/phone_icon.svg "phone_icon") #### [Contact Us](https://www.gflesch.com/contact-us) Toll Free: 800.333.5905 Corporate Headquarters: 2675 Research Park Drive Madison, WI 53711 Search [![GFC_LogoTag_800x170_White](https://www.gflesch.com/hubfs/Gordon-Flesch-Site/Logos/GFC-2021-Logo_White.svg)](https://www.gflesch.com/) [LOCATIONS](https://www.gflesch.com/contact-us#locations) [CAREERS](https://www.gflesch.com/careers) [Printer Security](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/topic/printer-security) | 4 min Read # How Secure are Network Printers? [![Michael Schuldes avatar](https://www.gflesch.com/hs-fs/hubfs/mike_schuldes_linkedin-1.jpg?width=100&height=100&name=mike_schuldes_linkedin-1.jpg) ](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/author/michael-schuldes) [Michael Schuldes](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/author/michael-schuldes) 02/20/2025 ![Programming code on screen](https://www.gflesch.com/hubfs/2025-Blog-Header-HowSecureAreNetworkPrinters.png) [**Facebook ](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https://www.gflesch.com/blog/secure-your-network-printers) [**LinkedIn ](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://www.gflesch.com/blog/secure-your-network-printers) [Twitter ](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https://www.gflesch.com/blog/secure-your-network-printers) [**Email ](mailto:?subject=Check%20out%20this%20great%20blog%20post%20from%20Gordon%20Flesch%20Company,%20INC.&body=Check%20out:%20https://www.gflesch.com/blog/secure-your-network-printers) As cyber threats continue to evolve and become more sophisticated, businesses must recognize that any networked device left unprotected, could serve as [an entry point for a cybercriminal](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/how-to-protect-your-printers-from-hackers). This includes network printers, as today’s printers are really just computers that can print. [Unprotected network devices](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/printer-virus) that are overlooked by security protocols can be exploited and used as a “back door” to infiltrate corporate networks, leading to potential data breaches and unauthorized access to sensitive information. To safeguard against such vulnerabilities, businesses need to implement comprehensive security measures specifically tailored to protect their network printers. This involves not only enabling built-in security features but also [regularly updating firmware](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/how-to-update-printer-firmware), changing default passwords and employing additional protective strategies. By taking these proactive steps, companies can significantly reduce the risk of their network printers becoming gateways for cybercriminals.  --- **RELATED:** [How to Conduct a Print Security Assessment](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/print-security-assessment)  --- ## The Gordon Flesch Company Team of Experts is Here to Help Gordon Flesch Company (GFC) is your partner for [all things managed print](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/managed-print-business-advantages) – including [print security](https://www.gflesch.com/security-policy) concerns. That’s why we proactively deploy enterprise-level print security that protects you and your organization against cyber threats and other potentially harmful activities. We take this responsibility seriously and [keep a vigilant eye](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/print-security-council) on the practices of our manufacturer partners and customers alike to ensure that, as a team, we’re doing everything in our power to safeguard your systems. Here’s the basics you’ll need to know, regarding network printer security:  - [Essential Security Features for Modern Network Printers](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/secure-your-network-printers#Essential1) - [Practical Steps to Secure Your Network Printers](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/secure-your-network-printers#Practical2) - [The Role of Managed Print Services in Enhancing Security](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/secure-your-network-printers#The3) - [Best Practices for Ongoing Printer Security](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/secure-your-network-printers#Best4) For a comprehensive overview of [printer security measures](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/how-to-make-your-printers-secure), explore our detailed guide on how to make your printers more secure. ## Essential Security Features for Modern Network Printers Modern network printers come equipped with various security features designed to protect against unauthorized access. Here are a couple of the essential features to look for: 1. **Encrypted Digital Lockbox:** Some printer manufacturers install specialized software to protect against intruders. This software generates secure cryptographic keys to encrypt and decrypt confidential information such as passwords and data stored in the device. This prevents unauthorized access and physical analysis of the printing device. 2. **Confidential Printing Modes:** Modern multifunction printers now have special modes that protect your printed pages from prying eyes. In addition, to holding the print job until the user releases it at the printing device, print management software such as, [uniFLOW and PaperCut](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/comparing-papercut-vs.-uniflow-print-management-software), help to optimize the use of printers by providing insights to administrators. This includes information about who is printing, what they’re printing and when they are printing it. For a more in-depth look at what to consider when upgrading your printers, read our article that lists [eight of the most important print security features](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/print-security-features-to-look-for-in-a-new-printer) that have benefited many of our customers. ## Practical Steps to Secure Your Network Printers To ensure your network printers are secure, every company should implement the following practical steps: 1. **Change Default Passwords:** Most printers have default administrator passwords and usernames. Changing that default password to a unique, strong password is a critical step to help prevent security breaches. 2. **Install a Firewall:** Installing a firewall can prevent cybercriminals from remotely accessing your printer. 3. **Enable Built-In Security Features:** Make sure all built-in security features are enabled. This includes encrypted communication options and port disablement to prevent unauthorized access. 4. **Routine Firmware Updates:** Regularly update the printer firmware to ensure it has the latest security patches. For more details, check out our comprehensive article on [network printer security best practices](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/network-printer-security-best-practices). ## The Role of Managed Print Services in Enhancing Security Even if you have [an internal IT Team](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/printer-service), it's worth considering working with a [Managed Print Services (MPS) provider](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/what-size-business-is-a-fit-for-managed-print) to take the hassle of printer maintenance and repair off of your IT Team’s “to do” list. Let your IT Team focus on the projects that matter the most to your organization and leave printer management to the MPS experts. MPS providers often offer options such as automatic, scheduled, or on-site firmware updates when setting up your printer. For example, at GFC, we even have a security checklist that we’ll go over with you to ensure that your new printer and printer management options are aligned with your organizational security procedures. In addition, GFC print management customers have the option of enlisting the assistance of our Managed IT division, [Elevity](https://www.elevityit.com/). Many of our small to medium-sized customers have leveraged this partnership for fully-managed IT services, including layered network security featuring [vCIO](https://www.elevityit.com/vcio) services and 24/7 network security monitoring through a [SIEM/SOC solution](https://www.elevityit.com/blog/siem-soc-tools). ## Best Practices for Ongoing Printer Security Once your print fleet is in place, maintaining ongoing printer security will be your goal. To accomplish this, we recommend that companies follow these best practices: 1. **Regular Security Assessments:** Conduct periodic print security assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities in your print environment. 2. **Employee Training:** Train employees on the importance of printer security and how to use the security features effectively. 3. **Monitor and Audit Printer Usage:** Use monitoring tools to track printer usage and audit logs to detect any unusual activity. 4. **Work with Security Experts:** Enlist the help of print security experts to stay ahead of emerging threats and ensure your security measures are up to date. Regularly reviewing your collected print fleet data is key. ## Looking to Invest in a New Print Fleet? There are MPS providers – and then there’s Gordon Flesch Company. Our imageCARE+ Managed Print Services offers the options that you’ll need to effectively manage your print fleet for optimum productivity, including preventative maintenance & attentive service, predictable costs, print security measures and an annual review of your print fleet in relation to your organization’s needs and goals. We’re your partner for “all things print.” [Contact us](https://www.gflesch.com/contact-us) today to schedule your free, no-obligation business technology needs assessment.  [![New call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2259185/30a144a0-3f40-4226-8e2f-3c1650d68155.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2259185/30a144a0-3f40-4226-8e2f-3c1650d68155) ## You may also like these posts about: **Printer Security** [![close up of electronic circuit board](https://www.gflesch.com/hubfs/2026-Blog-Header_Do%20Printers%20Have%20Memory.png) ](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/how-to-protect-print-data) [Printer Security](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/topic/printer-security) ### [Do Printers Have Memory? How to Protect Print Data](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/how-to-protect-print-data) 06/18/2026 | 5 min Read [![Five co-workers in an office conference room having a meeting](https://www.gflesch.com/hubfs/2026-Blog-Header_How%20to%20Integrate%20Print%20Infrastructure%20Into%20Your%20IT%20Strategy.png) ](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/integrate-print-infrastructure-into-it-strategy) [Managed Print](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/topic/managed-print) ### [How to Integrate Print Infrastructure into Your IT Strategy](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/integrate-print-infrastructure-into-it-strategy) 06/16/2026 | 4 min Read [![three co-workers viewing a computer screen that says, ](https://www.gflesch.com/hubfs/2026-Blog-Header_The%20Cost%20of%20a%20Printer%20Security%20Breach%20for%20Businesses.png) ](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/cost-of-printer-security-breach-businesses) [Printer Security](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/topic/printer-security) ### [The Cost of a Printer Security Breach for Businesses](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/cost-of-printer-security-breach-businesses) 06/09/2026 | 5 min Read [← Local Phone Support for Businesses](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/local-phone-support) [** ](https://www.gflesch.com/blog) [Tracking Print Jobs at Your Organization →](https://www.gflesch.com/blog/tracking-print-jobs) [![GFC-2021-Logo_White](https://www.gflesch.com/hubfs/Gordon-Flesch-Site/Logos/GFC-2021-Logo_White.svg "GFC-2021-Logo_White")](https://www.gflesch.com/) 2675 Research Park Drive Madison, WI 53711 800.333.5905 [CLIENT TOOLS](https://www.gflesch.com/customer-support) © 2023 Gordon Flesch Company. All Rights Reserved. [Security Policy](https://www.gflesch.com/security-policy) | [Terms and Conditions](https://www.gflesch.com/terms-and-conditions)