In the realm of cloud-based print management solutions, Microsoft Universal Print (MSUP) shines with its streamlined printing experience tailored for Microsoft 365-centric organizations, eliminating the need for intricate hybrid print configurations. However, every technology has its limitations, and MSUP is no exception.

On the other hand, InfinityCloud presents a wealth of powerful features designed to streamline and elevate the printing workflow within enterprises, positioning itself as the premier choice thanks to its extensive functionalities, intuitive interface, and cost-efficiency. Let’s explore in detail why InfinityCloud outshines Microsoft Universal Print in the realm of print management solutions.

Microsoft Universal Print VS InfinityCloud

Let’s start with the question: Is Universal Print universal? Yes and no.

If you have new Universal Print compatible printers/MFDs, you can print to them without any on-site servers. However, if they are not compatible, you still have the cost and hassle of an on-site print server. With InfinityCloud, as long as the printer has a certified Microsoft printer driver, you can use it for Direct IP printing without an on-premise server. Additionally, this allows for a more gradual replacement of older devices.

Streamlined Deployment and Administration

While Universal Print aims to simplify deployment, the process can be complicated. Administrators must manually copy multiple GUIDs per printer and deploy them through Intune, which can be complex and time-consuming.

In contrast, InfinityCloud offers bulk importation of printers from print servers and provides user-friendly tools like PrintPal for automatic deployment of specific printers to designated users. Additionally, InfinityCloud’s Self-Serve Portal allows end users to easily add necessary printers via diagrams of their office(s).

Universal Print sends every print job to the cloud and back, even for “Direct IP” or SecurePrint jobs, which can lead to inefficiencies and slower print speeds. Moreover, if the internet is down, printing capabilities are lost.

InfinityCloud, however, uses printer drivers to send jobs directly from the workstation to the printer over the LAN, ensuring continued functionality even without internet access. When online, print statistics are still sent to the cloud.

Intune deployment restricts dynamic printer remapping for roaming users in Universal Print. InfinityCloud supports dynamic deployment using IP scopes, user, user group, or device name, simplifying access for roaming users.

Compatibility and User Experience

Secure print jobs in Universal Print can only be released via a mobile app using a QR code or PIN, which may not be suitable for all users. Additionally, a new PIN must be set for every print job. InfinityCloud provides multiple release options, including printer-embedded solutions, vPad, and PF 360 mobile release, offering greater flexibility. Users only need to set their PIN once and can use an access code, eliminating the need for a username and PIN.

Mac users must manually add printers in a non-dynamic, two-step process in Universal Print. InfinityCloud automatically deploys printers to Macs dynamically, ensuring the correct printers are available as users move between locations.

Dynamic Printer Deployment and Consistent User Experience

Lastly, Universal Print offers limited statistics, while InfinityCloud provides detailed statistics and customizable reports to effectively manage and reduce print costs. For SecurePrint, InfinityCloud also offers a quota system to control both color and black-and-white print volumes.

Although Microsoft Universal Print serves as a viable cloud-based printing solution, InfinityCloud stands out in several critical areas. These include broader printer compatibility, easier deployment, dynamic printer mapping, consistent secure printing, user-friendly print job release, and comprehensive reporting.

These advantages result in significant cost savings, an enhanced user experience, and reduced administrative overhead, making InfinityCloud the superior choice for organizations seeking an efficient, user-friendly, and cost-effective print management solution.