On my new Windows Server 2012 I've installed a printer and shared it via the Sharing tab:
I'm not in a Windows domain (just a regular work group) and printing works fine.
Now there's also the "Print and Ducment Services" role – which includes the "Print Server" role service. Why would I need this role? Or is this just for "advanced" printer deployment?
Best Answer
It is pretty much what you assume it to be, additional features. As you have experienced, you'll still be able to share printers and act as a "print server" without the role. However, the role provides things like the Printer Management console for ease of management, quick deployment through Group Policy (if you were using a AD Domain). You can also install things like the LDP service for printing from Unix based hosts, and Internet Printing.