The NetPrint module provides functionality to access and use remote printer server devices, using a given network protocol. Like most other filing systems, it uses the FileSwitch module.
Many of the commands provided by FileSwitch is also available via NetPrint, although there are some that are not applicable to network printer servers, such as those that read or store data.
NetPrint translates commands either directly or via FileSwitch, into printer server commands. These commands are then sent to the printer server using the standard protocol. The printer server then responds accordingly to the commands and files that it receives. It handles spooling and its locally connected printer.
Much of the above is transparent to the user, and for most commands, knowledge about the underlying printer server protocol is not required.