Ah, there's nothing like starting the New Year with a tech surprise—and not exactly the good kind. For Windows 11 users, the arrival of 2025 hasn’t been all fireworks and champagne. Instead, Microsoft's year-end gift came in the form of a persistent bug, one that some users are calling "the death of multifunction scanner usability." So, what's going on, and why are devices like Canon's ImageClass MF269dw acting up? Let's dig into the details and unravel this messy situation.
However, it turns out "resolved" was a bit of an overstatement. Users are still struggling, and Canon, one of the affected manufacturers, has confirmed the problem persists with some of its devices, like the ImageClass MF269dw—a device marketed as an all-in-one printer, scanner, copier, and fax machine.
But what's the real kicker here? The device does work correctly under specific conditions: if both the computer and the scanner are connected via wired Ethernet. That’s right—goodbye to the flexibility of wireless scanning that many users have come to cherish.
On the flip side, Microsoft has been frustratingly quiet about the issue, apart from vague mentions of “investigation.” The company hasn’t commented on their supposed "fix" of the problem through patch KB5048667. This leaves users stuck between two tech giants: one blaming faulty operating system amendments and the other seemingly shrugging their shoulders.
Let’s be real: firing up that app in 2025 is like dusting off a flip phone to make a call. Sure, it’s functionally valid, but it's a far cry from the sleek user experience promised by modern tech.
Microsoft’s update seems to have disrupted eSCL’s functionality, either by altering how the operating system processes the protocol or how it handles peripheral communication. Imagine trying to use Bluetooth headphones that keep disconnecting due to a software glitch—it’s the same level of inconvenience.
Moreover, the reliance on external partners like Canon exacerbates user frustrations. If Microsoft and hardware manufacturers can’t maintain seamless compatibility, who holds accountability? In situations like this, end users—who have paid for both the software and hardware—find themselves caught in a corporate stalemate.
What’s your take, forum fam? Are you dealing with a dysfunctional scanner post-24H2? Share your war stories and workarounds in the comments below!
Source: The Register A New Year's gift from Microsoft: Surprise, your scanners don't work
The Core of the Problem: eSCL Protocol Issues
The problem revolves around Windows 11’s 24H2 update and how it interacts with the eSCL (Scanner Communication Language) protocol. This protocol is essential for many scanners and multifunction devices, allowing seamless communication between your computer and the hardware. Microsoft initially flagged an issue back in November 2024, issuing a "compatibility safeguard" for USB-connected scanners using eSCL. They later claimed to have resolved the issue by releasing patch KB5048667 in December.However, it turns out "resolved" was a bit of an overstatement. Users are still struggling, and Canon, one of the affected manufacturers, has confirmed the problem persists with some of its devices, like the ImageClass MF269dw—a device marketed as an all-in-one printer, scanner, copier, and fax machine.
But what's the real kicker here? The device does work correctly under specific conditions: if both the computer and the scanner are connected via wired Ethernet. That’s right—goodbye to the flexibility of wireless scanning that many users have come to cherish.
Microsoft vs. Canon: The Blame Game
Canon, for its part, has pointed fingers at Microsoft for introducing the incompatibility, stating that the problem lies deep within the Windows 11 operating system. According to Canon's representatives, their ScanGear MF driver—a widely used tool that enables advanced scanner settings—hasn't been updated because their software isn’t the root cause.On the flip side, Microsoft has been frustratingly quiet about the issue, apart from vague mentions of “investigation.” The company hasn’t commented on their supposed "fix" of the problem through patch KB5048667. This leaves users stuck between two tech giants: one blaming faulty operating system amendments and the other seemingly shrugging their shoulders.
Who’s Impacted?
Users who rely on Canon multifunction devices are bearing the brunt of the mess. Complaints include connectivity issues, functionality glitches, and even completely failed scanning attempts. The debacle has led to many customers taking a retro approach by reverting to wired USB connections or even—brace yourself—relying on Microsoft’s ancient "Windows Fax and Scan" application, a relic from the Vista days.Let’s be real: firing up that app in 2025 is like dusting off a flip phone to make a call. Sure, it’s functionally valid, but it's a far cry from the sleek user experience promised by modern tech.
Tech Breakdown: What is the eSCL Protocol?
Without wading too deep into technobabble, eSCL—or AirScan—is an open protocol that simplifies scanning workflows, particularly for network-connected scanners and multifunction devices. It effectively standardizes how your computer communicates with a scanner, eliminating the need for proprietary drivers in many cases. This standard has become a mainstay in the industry for seamless plug-and-play scanning support, which is why its current breakdown is causing such an uproar.Microsoft’s update seems to have disrupted eSCL’s functionality, either by altering how the operating system processes the protocol or how it handles peripheral communication. Imagine trying to use Bluetooth headphones that keep disconnecting due to a software glitch—it’s the same level of inconvenience.
What Can You Do About This?
If you’re one of the unlucky souls whose scanning workflow has been disrupted, here are your current options:1. Go Wired
Connect both your PC and your multifunction device via Ethernet or USB. Yes, it’s not ideal in the wireless age, but it adds a level of reliability that Windows 11 24H2 and the eSCL protocol currently lack.2. Use Native Microsoft Tools
You’ll likely have to roll back a few decades in computing history and use Microsoft’s “Windows Fax and Scan” app. Not glamorous, but it gets the job done without involving third-party software like Canon’s ScanGear.3. Revert to Windows 10
For those who can’t afford disruption in their workflow, rolling back to Windows 10 might be a short-term solution. The Canon ImageClass MF269dw works just fine on that platform, as confirmed by affected users.4. Wait for the January 2025 Fix
Canon has stated that Microsoft is working on an "OS amendment" slated for this month. However, as anyone familiar with Microsoft's patch history knows, there are no guarantees on timing—or whether the update will even work as promised. Approach this with cautious optimism.Why This Matters: Bigger Implications for Windows Users
The scanner issue isn’t just a minor inconvenience; it’s emblematic of larger systemic problems within Microsoft’s update ecosystem. The 24H2 update for Windows 11 has already caused an avalanche of issues, from Outlook crashes to hardware incompatibilities. And with Windows 10’s end-of-support looming in October 2025, users are being forced onto a platform that feels rushed and buggy.Moreover, the reliance on external partners like Canon exacerbates user frustrations. If Microsoft and hardware manufacturers can’t maintain seamless compatibility, who holds accountability? In situations like this, end users—who have paid for both the software and hardware—find themselves caught in a corporate stalemate.
Wrap-Up: Fingers Crossed for January 2025
Microsoft needs to step up its game to win back user trust, and Canon users are desperately hoping the promises of a January fix don’t end up as vaporware. But in the meantime? Dust off those USB cables, channel your inner retro tech enthusiast with Windows Fax and Scan, or keep your fingers crossed for patch day.What’s your take, forum fam? Are you dealing with a dysfunctional scanner post-24H2? Share your war stories and workarounds in the comments below!
Source: The Register A New Year's gift from Microsoft: Surprise, your scanners don't work
