Sources: Microsoft Docs (Windows printing architecture), ECMA-388 standard, industry usage analysis.
Recommendation: For sensitive printing-to-file, use PDF with encryption or Windows Information Protection. Microsoft XPS Document Writer is a legacy component that was forward-thinking in 2007 (XML-based, fixed-layout, device-independent) but lost to PDF’s superior ecosystem. Today, its primary value is compatibility with older Windows workflows or niche requirements. microsoft xps document writer
: Use Microsoft Print to PDF (built into Windows 10/11) or a third-party PDF creator. Only enable MXDW if you explicitly need XPS output for a specific application or regulatory reason. Sources: Microsoft Docs (Windows printing architecture)