Securing Print in a Connected IT Environment

LM: “Print is often missed when organisations build out their security approach. We see that regularly when working with IT services clients. Security is well defined across networks, endpoints and cloud platforms, but print sits just outside of that thinking. 

The reality is print is part of the same data flow. Sensitive information is created, shared and output through these devices every day. 

The starting point is visibility. Through our IT Health Check, we help organisations understand how print devices, users and networks interact. That highlights where risk exists and allows print to be managed as part of the wider IT security model rather than separately.”

LM: “Most risk comes from simple, everyday behaviour rather than targeted attacks. 

Documents left on trays, unrestricted access to devices and a lack of visibility over print activity all create exposure. These are small gaps, but they sit within important business processes. 

The controls are straightforward. Secure release printing ensures documents are only produced when the user is present. Authentication and role-based access limit who can use devices. Audit trails provide accountability. 

We also look beyond the device into the workflow. Where documents originate, how they move through the business and where they are stored all influence risk. 

Our project teams work closely with customers during implementation, walking them through best practice and helping embed the right behaviours alongside the technology. When that is in place, risk reduces quickly.”

LM: “Print now sits within a much broader, connected IT environment. Cloud platforms, automation and AI-driven workflows have changed how data moves through a business. 

FUTERA has experience across both IT and print, which allows us to approach this as a single structure. We look at the full environment, from infrastructure and identity through to endpoints and output, rather than isolating print. 

Cloud-managed print platforms play an important role. They provide control and visibility without relying on local infrastructure, with security built into how access and data are managed. 

As automation becomes more common, particularly in document workflows, governance becomes important. Data needs to move efficiently, but within clearly defined controls.”

LM: “Hybrid working has extended print beyond the office network. Users now need to print securely from different locations and devices. 

A zero trust approach works well here. Access is based on identity rather than location, with verification at each stage. 

Cloud-based print management allows users to print from anywhere, while maintaining control over how documents are released. Data remains encrypted and output is restricted to authorised devices. 

This creates a consistent security model whether someone is in the office, at home or on the move.”

LM: “Security standards provide structure. Many organisations are working towards Cyber Essentials, Cyber Essentials Plus and ISO 27001 as a way to formalise their approach. 

We support customers through that process. That includes identifying gaps, implementing the required controls and aligning their environment to meet the standard. 

The benefit is clarity. Security becomes easier to manage and easier to measure. Independent validation also provides confidence that controls are in place and maintained properly. 

For organisations operating in regulated sectors or supply chains, that level of assurance is expected.”

LM: “OEM partners play an important role in maintaining a strong security capability. That includes technical training, certification programmes and access to new platform features. 

We work closely with them to understand how those capabilities translate into real-world environments. That allows us to deploy solutions that are practical and aligned to how organisations operate. 

It is also a two-way relationship. Feedback from our engineers and customers helps shape how those technologies are applied, particularly in complex or mixed estates.”