In today’s fast-paced enterprise environments, consistency isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a strategic imperative. That’s why most organizations enforce standardized configurations across their IT equipment, tailoring each device to a specific use case. Whether it’s a laptop, scanner, or thermal printer, uniformity helps reduce complexity at every stage—from initial setup and user on-boarding to support and eventual replacement.
Once an IT team selects a device for deployment, the next step is defining how it should behave in the field. Take thermal printers, for example. These need to be configured with specific settings: media type, print speed, darkness levels, and connectivity options. Getting these parameters right ensures the device performs reliably and meets business expectations.
When a device configuration is finalized, IT teams typically capture it as a snapshot or profile. This becomes the foundation of a Standard Operating Environment (SOE)—sometimes referred to as a Gold Build. The SOE acts as a blueprint, enabling teams to replicate the same setup across hundreds or even thousands of devices with minimal friction.
The result? Faster roll outs, smoother support experiences, and a predictable lifecycle for every piece of equipment. By investing in a well-defined SOE, enterprises not only streamline operations but also empower their teams to focus on what really matters: delivering value to the business.
Having the right resources and skill set will make this much easier. Depending on your chosen method, the checklist below will help ensure you get it right the first time.
1. Equipment & Tools
| Item | Legacy Method | ISU |
| Zebra Printers | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Power Supply | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| USB Cables | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Windows Laptop (With ZSU) | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Android Device (with ISU) | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Configuration File | ✔️(Local Storage?) | ✔️ (Cloud Based) |
| Internet Access | Optional | ✔️ |
| Labels (for test prints) | ✔️ | ✔️ |
2. Personnel Readiness
| Requirement | Legacy Method | ISU |
| Trained Engineer | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Basic Android User | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Access to Config Repository | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Staging Process Familiarity | ✔️ | ✔️ |
3. Security & Compliance
[ ] Verify config file integrity (Legacy: manual; ISU: cloud-verified).
[ ] Confirm device serial/SKU matches config.
[ ] Prepare to capture staging logs.
[ ] Avoid storing config files on unsecured USB's or laptops.
4. Staging Workflow Prep
| Step | Legacy Method | ISU |
| Turn on Printer | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Connect Printer to Laptop with USB cable | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Launch ZSU | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Ensure Printer is showing in list of available devices | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Select config file to load (if saved previously) | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Send to printer | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Tap-to-Stage via ISU | ✔️ | |
| Validate printer is configured | ✔️ (Manual) | ✔️ (Automated) |
| Further validate with a print job | ✔️ (Manual) | ✔️ (Automated) |
| Record Staging Success | ✔️ (Manual) | ✔️(Automated) |
5. Logistics & Support
[ ] Ensure staging location has adequate power and workspace.
[ ] Attach asset tags to devices.
[ ] Document fallback procedures for failed staging.
[ ] Prepare escalation path for support (Zebra, MSP, internal IT).
[ ] Confirm courier process for return/repair units.
6. Post-Staging Validation
[ ] Confirm odometer, battery health, and config status (ISU auto-captures).
[ ] Capture staging report (ISU auto-generates).
[ ] Re-box printer with correct accessories.
[ ] Update asset management system.
[ ] Flag any exceptions for rework or escalation.
Printer Configuration Suggestions:
Zebra printers can have around 1000 information of configuration items available in their ALLCV (Printer Configuration). Most parameters remain at factory defaults posing potential risks if left unchecked.
All Zebra enterprise printers should be configured with a combination of:
Physical parameters (e.g. media type, speed, darkness)
Communication settings (e.g. Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, Serial)
Security controls to reduce network vulnerability
Configuration considerations may vary by firmware version
Media Type/Speed/Darkness.
Media Calibration (Head Close / Power Up).
Emulation (IPL/DPL/PDF/etc).
Physical Connectivity (Ethernet/Wi-Fi/BT/USB/Serial).
Encryption/Authentication.
Passkeys/Usernames & Passwords/ Certificates.
IP Address Method (DHCP/Static).
Network Connectivity (Weblink / MQTT).
RFID Calibration.
Network Protocol Hardening
Enterprise printers support multiple protocols. If unused, consider disabling the following to reduce attack surface:
DHCP
FTP
LPD
TCP / UDP
HTTP / HTTPS
SMTP / POP3
SNMP / TELNET
BOOTP / MIRROR / DISCOVERY
XML / NTP / TLS / SYSLOG
NETMANAGE / ZBI /
MQTT/WEBLINK
Zebra provides detailed documentation and best-practice security guides. Always consult a Zebra Authorized Partner for configuration support or compliance concerns