Introduction

Greetings, readers! Today, we embark on a comprehensive guide to enabling printing in Microsoft Edge while utilizing Application Guard. This advanced security feature ensures your device’s well-being by isolating any potential threats that may lurk within downloaded files. To guarantee seamless and secure printing, let’s dive into the process step-by-step.

What is Application Guard?

Application Guard is an integral component of Microsoft Edge that acts as a virtual barrier, segregating potentially risky activities from your device’s core system. It creates an isolated environment, similar to a sandbox, where untrusted applications and files are executed. This isolation prevents malware or other malicious entities from accessing and damaging your device’s critical files.

Benefits of Using Application Guard

Enhanced Security: Application Guard shields your device from potential threats by separating risky activities into a separate, isolated environment.
Uninterrupted Browsing: You can browse the internet with confidence, knowing that your device remains protected from malicious websites or downloads.
Efficient Resource Allocation: Application Guard optimizes resource allocation by isolating untrusted applications, ensuring optimal performance for essential tasks.

Enabling Printing in Application Guard

Enable Application Guard

Before enabling printing in Application Guard, you must ensure that the feature is activated. Follow these steps:

Launch Microsoft Edge.
Navigate to "Settings" (three dots) > "Privacy & Security" > "Security."
Locate "Application Guard" and toggle the switch to "On."
Restart Microsoft Edge.

Configure Printing Settings

Once Application Guard is enabled, you can configure the printing settings:

Open Microsoft Edge.
Navigate to "Settings" (three dots) > "Privacy & Security" > "Security."
Scroll down to "Application Guard Printing" and toggle the switch to "On."
Choose your preferred "Print destination" (local printer, Microsoft Print to PDF, etc.).

Using Application Guard for Printing

Downloading and Printing Files

Download a file from an untrusted source using Microsoft Edge.
Application Guard will automatically isolate the download process.
Once the download is complete, navigate to the downloaded file.
Right-click on the file and select "Print" (or use the keyboard shortcut "Ctrl" + "P").
Choose your preferred printer and print settings.

Printing Documents from Websites

Visit a website in Microsoft Edge.
Navigate to the document you wish to print.
Right-click on the document and select "Print" (or use the keyboard shortcut "Ctrl" + "P").
Application Guard will isolate the printing process.
Choose your preferred printer and print settings.

Additional Considerations

Performance Impact: Using Application Guard may slightly impact performance, particularly for resource-intensive printing tasks.
Printer Compatibility: Ensure your printer is compatible with Application Guard printing. Refer to your printer’s documentation for specific requirements.
Troubleshooting: If you encounter any issues with printing in Application Guard, check the Application Guard settings or refer to Microsoft support for assistance.

Table Breakdown: Application Guard Printing Settings

Setting	Description
Application Guard	Enables or disables Application Guard for enhanced security
Application Guard Printing	Enables or disables printing within the Application Guard isolated environment
Print destination	Specifies the destination for printing within Application Guard

Conclusion

Enabling printing in Microsoft Edge with Application Guard provides a secure and efficient way to print files and documents from untrusted sources. Embrace the benefits of heightened security without sacrificing functionality. If you’re interested in further exploring security features, consider checking out our articles on Windows Defender Firewall and Secure Boot.

Thank you for joining us on this informative journey!

FAQ about Enable Printing Application Guard in Edge Windows

What is Microsoft Defender Application Guard (WDAG)?

WDAG is a security feature that isolates untrusted websites from the rest of your system, protecting against malicious attacks delivered through web browsing.

What is Printing Application Guard (PAG)?

PAG is a feature of WDAG that protects your system from malicious files that might be embedded in printed documents. It does this by isolating the printing process in a virtual environment.

How do I enable PAG?

Open Microsoft Edge.
Click the ellipsis menu (…) in the top-right corner.
Select "Settings."
Scroll down to the "System and performance" section.
Under "Printing," toggle on "Enable Printing Application Guard."

What happens when PAG is enabled?

When you print a document, Edge will open a separate window where the printing process will take place. This window will be isolated from the rest of your system, protecting it from any potential threats.

Can I disable PAG?

Yes, you can disable PAG by following the same steps as above and toggling off "Enable Printing Application Guard."

What if I don’t have the option to enable PAG?

PAG is only available in Microsoft Edge version 94 or later. If you don’t see the option to enable PAG, make sure you have the latest version of Edge installed.

Can I use PAG with other browsers?

No, PAG is only available for Microsoft Edge.

How does PAG impact performance?

PAG has a minimal impact on performance. You may notice a slight delay when printing documents, but this should not be significant.

What are the benefits of using PAG?

PAG provides several benefits, including:

Protection from malicious files in printed documents
Isolation of the printing process to prevent attacks
Improved security for your system

What are the limitations of PAG?

PAG does not protect against all types of threats, such as those delivered through email or other applications. It is important to use a comprehensive security solution that includes antivirus software and other security measures.