While not inherently “bad,” Windows print servers can be considered a less-than-ideal solution in modern network environments. This can be due to potential issues like being a single point of failure, requiring dedicated IT management, potential performance bottlenecks in high-volume printing situations, and the emergence of more streamlined network printing methods where printers can be directly accessed via IP address, making a dedicated print server less necessary.

Instead Plus Technologies recommends Enterprise Print Manager (EPM) . Enterprise Print Manager can eliminate the need for print servers and alleviate all the related issues.

For more information on EPM go this page page (EPM) or contact us at 877-899-7587.

Plus Technologies also offers a free – no obligation – evaluation of EPM.

What is Enterprise Print Manager?

Enterprise Print Manager is a centralized print driver management solution that enables a print environment to be managed (from anywhere) from one interface. This means that IT administrators can update, troubleshoot, and monitor all of their printer queues and drivers from a single interface, rather than having to log into each device individually. It supports both print server printing and direct IP printing so organizations can eliminate the need for costly print servers and empower employees to easily install and set up printers on their own, reducing the IT burden.

Self-Service Printing Software

Self-service portals are increasingly popular in today’s fast-paced world. This functionality allows employees to easily install and set up printers on their own, without needing IT support. This not only saves time and resources, but also empowers employees to take control of their own printing needs.

Centralized Print Driver Management

IT administrators can manage print queues and drivers from a single centralized screen. This is accomplished with administrative server software and a small software agent on the client desktops and/or print servers. Print jobs are sent from clients and servers via direct IP to the printers, reducing network traffic.

The software includes a range of features, such as the ability to automatically update drivers and generate reports. This allows IT administrators to keep track of printers on the network, and to proactively ensure they are running optimally.

Eliminate Print Servers

By implementing direct IP printing, you can reduce the number of print servers needed, eliminating the associated acquisition, implementation, and support costs. Direct IP printing also reduces network traffic because print jobs go directly to printers instead of routing through print servers.

Simplify Administration:

Significantly reduce the administration effort associated with creating and propagating print queues and drivers to desktops.

Reduce Costs:

Reduce consumable costs by centrally configuring print queues to automatically default to duplex, black and white, and economy mode settings.