What’s new for your Zebra printers
On August 1, 2025, a new European regulation came into force: the EU RED 18031 Directive.
Its aim is to reinforce the cybersecurity of all communicating equipment, whether it uses wired or wireless connections.
This directive directly affects certain Zebra printers intended for the European market, and may have an impact on their commissioning and initial configuration.
Zebra printers: are you concerned?
Zebra printers manufactured from August 1, 2025 onwards and destined for Europe now include :
- Link-OS firmware 7.4.2 or higher
- Enhanced communications protection
- Default locking of unsecured ports and protocols
👉 A simple clue as to whether your printer is affected:
If you find a leaflet with a QR Code and URL in the box, your printer complies with EU directive RED 18031.
This URL(www.zebra/asr) takes you to Zebra’s official configuration help site.
Printer behavior at reception
On delivery, the printers concerned are voluntarily restricted to ensure safety:
✅ Active USB port
✅ Bluetooth active, but requires prior pairing
✅ Active Ethernet port, with automatic IP address assignment (DHCP or BOOTP)
However :
❌ All network communication protocols disabled
❌ Unable to access printer via TCP/IP or embedded web page
❌ Access to printer menus locked
Initial configuration is therefore essential before using the network.
Protected mode: on or off?
Zebra printers now include a protected mode to control access to sensitive parameters.
Protected mode disabled
- Free modification of parameters (Wi-Fi, Ethernet, firmware, etc.)
- No password required
- Recommended for the commissioning phase
Protected mode on
- Protection of critical parameters
- Password required for all changes
- Recommended for use in secure environments
CIPAM supports you
You have two options:
✅ Configure your printer yourself, using Zebra’s official website
✅ Entrust the configuration to CIPAM, giving us the necessary authorizations
Our teams are at your disposal for :
- Check whether your equipment is affected
- Initial configuration
- Secure your network settings in compliance with EU directive RED 18031
Contact us if you have any questions, or if you’d like personalized support.