Printer Driver and Language Basics: PCL, PS, and XPS

The Evolution of Printer Languages and Drivers

Printer languages define how a page is rendered, and drivers translate application data into that language. Historically, you had to install the correct driver for each printer model and often had to choose between languages such as PCL, PostScript, and XPS. The Printer Working Group (PWG) has changed this with the IPP Everywhere standard, which allows personal computers and mobile devices to find and print to networked and USB printers without using vendor-specific software. Learn more about printer languages.

Today, 98% of all printers sold support IPP/2.0 and DNS-SD, according to the PWG. That means most current printers can work with the built-in printing services of Windows, macOS, Linux, and popular mobile platforms. You no longer need to worry about matching a specific driver to a printer model, and the setup process is often as simple as connecting the printer to your network.

PCL, PostScript, and XPS: The Traditional Trio

PCL (Printer Command Language) was created by HP and has been widely used for general office printing. PostScript (PS) from Adobe is known for its high-quality text and graphics rendering, making it a favorite in graphic design and publishing. XPS (XML Paper Specification) was developed by Microsoft as an alternative. These languages differ in how they describe shapes, fonts, and colors, but most users never interact with them directly.

When buying a printer, you might still see support for these languages listed in the specifications, especially on business-oriented models. However, as the PWG explains, IPP Everywhere printers offer "state-of-the-art printing capabilities, output quality, and ease of use without the need to download and install driver software." So while PCL and PS are still present, they are becoming less critical for everyday printing. For a deeper dive, see our PCL vs PostScript comparison.

For more on how these languages work in specific contexts, check our PostScript in printers guide.

The Shift to Driverless Printing with IPP Everywhere

IPP Everywhere is a PWG standard that supports features like printer discovery, a full range of print media, 2-sided printing, photo printing, and even finishers. It is supported by popular clients including Chrome OS, CUPS, Linux, macOS, and Windows, according to the PWG. This means you can plug in a printer and often print immediately without installing a driver.

The specification requires support for IPP/2.0, DNS-SD, and generic file formats like PWG Raster and JPEG (for color printers). PDF is recommended as well. When checking a printer's compatibility, look for "IPP Everywhere" certification or the IPP logo. Many new printers include this by default.

Driverless printing also simplifies network setup. You do not need to download separate drivers for each computer in your household or office. The operating system handles discovery and configuration automatically, which reduces the chance of driver conflicts and makes maintenance easier over time.

• Look for IPP Everywhere support in the printer's specification
• Check that your operating system supports IPP Everywhere (Windows 10 and later, macOS, Linux, Chrome OS)
• For mobile printing, ensure the printer is certified for a widely adopted mobile printing standard

Mobile and Cloud Printing Standards

A widely used set of standards for mobile printing and scanning is defined by an industry alliance that includes many printer manufacturers. These standards allow you to print from Android, Windows, and Fire tablets without installing manufacturer-specific apps. The alliance also covers scanning to Android, Windows, and Chromebook devices, making it easy to digitize documents from your phone or tablet.

If you frequently print from a mobile device, verify that the printer you are considering is certified for these mobile standards. Many newer printers include this certification by default, and the alliance provides a product finder to check certified models. For more on scanning standards, see our TWAIN vs WIA scanning article.

What to Check for Compatibility When Buying

When you are selecting a printer, look for the following features to ensure smooth operation across all your devices: IPP Everywhere support, mobile printing certification, ENERGY STAR certification (which also implies duplexing and power management), and support for common file formats like PDF and JPEG.

The ENERGY STAR program for imaging equipment requires automatic duplexing capabilities and specific power management features, so certified printers help you save energy and money. You can use the ENERGY STAR product finder to filter printers by technology, color, speed, and page size.

For most home and small office users, IPP Everywhere support is the key specification. It guarantees that your printer will work with the built-in drivers in Windows and macOS, and it also works with Linux and Chrome OS. If you ever need to print from a phone, the mobile printing certification ensures a smooth experience.

• Check for IPP Everywhere support for driverless printing on Windows, macOS, Linux, and Chrome OS
• Look for a mobile printing certification if you print from Android or Windows
• Select an ENERGY STAR certified model to save energy and automatically get duplexing
• Consider a printer that supports common file formats like PDF and JPEG for maximum compatibility

Long-Term Considerations: Energy and Recycling

Choosing an energy-efficient printer reduces your electricity bills and environmental impact. ENERGY STAR certified imaging equipment can save up to 35 percent versus conventional equipment, according to the program. These devices also include automatic duplexing to cut paper usage.

When your printer eventually reaches its end of life, follow EPA guidelines for recycling used electronics. The EPA provides resources for donating and recycling electronics and batteries, ensuring that hazardous materials are handled properly and valuable materials are recovered.

Proper recycling also helps conserve natural resources and reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills. Check with your local municipality for electronics recycling events, or use the EPA's guidance to find certified recyclers near you.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Do I still need to install printer drivers?

With IPP Everywhere, many printers work without vendor-specific drivers. Your operating system can use the built-in IPP Everywhere client, which is supported in Windows, macOS, Linux, and Chrome OS. For older printers, you might still need a driver, but for any recent model, driverless printing is the norm.

What is the difference between PCL and PostScript?

PCL and PostScript are different page description languages. PCL is often used for general office printing, while PostScript is known for high-quality graphics and cross-platform consistency. Many printers support both, but with IPP Everywhere, the language is handled automatically. See our PCL vs PostScript guide for more.

How do I know if a printer supports IPP Everywhere?

Look for the IPP Everywhere certification label or check the specification sheet for support of IPP/2.0 and DNS-SD. Many modern printers list this in their networking features. You can also check the PWG's product finder, which lists certified printers.

Do I need the mobile printing certification on a printer?

If you plan to print from a smartphone or tablet, yes. The certification ensures that your device can send print jobs easily without extra apps. Most Android devices have the printing service built in, and it works with certified printers automatically. Windows also supports this certification.

Are there any environmental benefits to choosing a certain printer?

Choosing an ENERGY STAR certified printer can save up to 35% energy compared to conventional models, and it includes automatic duplexing to reduce paper use. Additionally, proper recycling at the end of the printer's life reduces electronic waste and recovers valuable materials.