How do I export printer configuration Server 2012?

To export printer configuration on Windows Server 2012, utilize the Print Management Console and its built-in Printer Migration Wizard to save printer queues, drivers, and port settings to a file.

Why Export Printer Configurations?

Exporting printer configurations is a critical task for various administrative purposes, ensuring continuity and simplifying management. Key reasons include:

• Server Migration: Smoothly transfer all printer settings from an old print server to a new one, reducing downtime and manual setup.
• Backup and Disaster Recovery: Create a reliable backup of your print server's configuration, allowing for quick restoration in case of system failure or data loss.
• Staging and Testing: Duplicate a production print server's setup in a test environment to validate changes or new printer deployments without affecting live operations.
• Standardization: Maintain consistent printer configurations across multiple print servers within an organization.

Step-by-Step Guide to Exporting Printer Configurations

The process involves using the Printer Migration Wizard, accessible via the Print Management Console.

1. Accessing Print Management

First, you need to open the Print Management Console:

1. Open Server Manager.
2. From the top menu, navigate to Tools.
3. Select Print Management from the dropdown list.

2. Initiating the Printer Migration Wizard

Once the Print Management Console is open:

1. In the left-hand pane, right-click on Print Management (the root node).
2. From the contextual menu, choose the "Migrate Printers..." option. This will launch the Printer Migration Wizard.

3. Choosing the Export Option

The Printer Migration Wizard will present two options:

1. On the Welcome screen, click Next.
2. Select the radio button for "Export printer queues and printer drivers to a file."
3. Click Next.

4. Specifying Export Details

This step involves selecting the print server and the components to export:

1. Select a print server:
   • Choose "The local print server" if you are exporting from the server you are currently logged into.
   • Choose "A different print server" and provide its name if you are performing a remote export (ensure you have appropriate permissions).
2. Click Next.
3. Choose what to export: The wizard will display a list of printer queues and drivers. You can review and deselect any items you do not wish to export. By default, all are selected.
4. Click Next.
5. Specify the file location:
   • Click Browse... to choose a location and filename for your export file (e.g., C:\PrinterBackup\printconfig.printerexport). The file will have a .printerexport extension.
   • Make sure the chosen path is accessible and has sufficient disk space.
6. Click Next.

5. Completing the Export

Review your selections on the "Review Your Selections" page.

1. Once you confirm everything is correct, click Finish.
2. The wizard will display the progress and confirm when the export is complete.

What Information Is Exported?

The Printer Migration Wizard packages a comprehensive set of printer-related configurations into a single .printerexport file. This includes:

• Printer Queues: All configured printers, their names, shared status, and default settings.
• Printer Drivers: The driver files and associated configuration settings installed on the print server.
• Printer Ports: Local ports (e.g., LPT1), TCP/IP ports, and any other configured printer ports.
• Security Settings: Permissions applied to each printer queue.
• Print Processor Settings: Configuration for print processors.

Best Practices for Printer Configuration Export

To ensure a successful and useful export, consider these best practices:

• Regular Backups: Schedule regular exports of your print server configuration, especially before major changes or updates.
• Store Securely: Keep the .printerexport file in a secure, accessible location, ideally off-server or in a dedicated backup share.
• Documentation: Document the date of the export, the server it came from, and any specific notes about the configuration.
• Driver Consistency: When migrating to a new server, ensure the target server has compatible operating system architecture (e.g., 64-bit to 64-bit) for drivers, or be prepared to install new drivers.
• Permissions: Run the export process with administrative privileges to ensure all configurations can be accessed and exported.

By following these steps, you can reliably export your printer configurations from Windows Server 2012, facilitating migrations, backups, and robust print server management.