Have you ever tried to print something only to get a “printer not found” error? Or maybe you’re setting up a new device and need to connect it to your printer. Whatever the case, knowing your printer’s IP address is key to keeping your printing experience smooth and frustration-free.
Method 1: Find the IP Address from the Printer Itself
Using the Printer’s Control Panel
Most modern printers have a built-in display that lets you access network settings. Here’s how you can find the printer’s IP address:
- Go to Settings or Setup.
- Navigate to Network or Wireless Settings.
- Look for TCP/IP, Wi-Fi Status, or Network Status.
- The IP address should be displayed.
- Since menu names vary by printer brand, check your printer’s manual for specific steps.
Printing a Network Configuration Page (Highly Recommended)
If your printer has no screen, you can print a network configuration page instead. This works across most brands:
- Access your printer’s Settings or Setup menu.
- Find Reports, Network, or Preferences.
- Select Print Configuration Page or Network Status Page.
- Look for the IP address under IPv4 Address.
Brand-specific examples:
- HP: Setup > Reports > Config Report
- Canon: Main Menu > Settings > Preferences > Network
- Brother: Print the “User Data List” or “Network Status Print“
For printers without a display, you may need to press and hold a button (like Wi-Fi or Power) for 5-10 seconds to print the report.
Method 2: Find the IP Address on Windows
Using the Control Panel (Devices and Printers)
- Open Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Devices and Printers.
- Right-click on your printer and select Properties.
Check these tabs:
- If you see Web Services, find the IP address there.
- If there’s a Ports tab, select the checked port and click Configure Port to see the IP.
Using Windows Settings
- Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners.
- Select your printer and click Manage > Printer Properties.
- Look under the General tab or go to Ports > Configure Port to find the IP address.
Using Command Prompt (CMD)
- Open Command Prompt (search for “cmd”).
- Type netstat -r and press Enter.
- Look through the list for your printer.
- Alternatively, type wmic printer list brief to check WSD ports.
Method 3: Find the IP Address on macOS
Using System Settings
- Open System Settings (or System Preferences) > Printers & Scanners.
- Select your printer.
- Click Options & Supplies to find the IP address.
Using Terminal (Advanced Users)
- Open Terminal.
- Type cupsctl WebInterface=yes and press Enter.
- Open Safari and go to localhost:631/printers.
- Look for your printer’s Location column.
Method 4: Find the IP Address via Your Router
- Find your router’s IP address (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
- Enter it in a web browser and log in.
- Look for DHCP Client List, Connected Devices, or Local Network.
- Find your printer’s name and note its IP address.
Method 5: Find the IP Address on Mobile Devices
Android:
Use network scanner apps like Fing or WiFi Analyzer to detect connected devices.
iPhone/iPad:
- Open Wi-Fi settings, find your router’s IP, and access it in a browser.
- Check the DHCP Client List in your router’s settings.
Chromebook:
- Go to Settings > Advanced > Printing > Printers.
- Select your printer and check for the IP address.
What to Do With Your Printer’s IP Address
Troubleshoot Network Issues
- Open Command Prompt and type ping [printer’s IP]. If it doesn’t respond, the printer might not be properly connected.
- Access the printer’s web interface by typing the IP into a browser to adjust settings.
- Check for IP conflicts if the printer frequently disconnects.
Connect a New Device
- Windows: Add Printer > “The printer that I want isn’t listed” > Add by IP Address.
- Mac: System Settings > Printers & Scanners > Add (+) > Enter IP Address.
Set a Static IP Address
If your printer’s IP changes often, setting a static IP can help:
- Do this through the printer’s network settings or router configuration.
- Windows users can add a Standard TCP/IP Port in printer settings.
If your printer’s IP keeps changing, a static IP prevents connection drops. This can usually be done in the printer’s network settings or your router’s DHCP settings.
Why You Might Need Your Printer’s IP Address
- Troubleshooting connection issues when your printer isn’t responding.
- Connecting a new device (like a laptop or phone) to the printer.
- Accessing the printer’s configuration page to change settings.
- Setting up advanced features, like wireless or remote printing.
By default, many printers automatically get their IP addresses from your router using DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) or Auto IP settings. However, you can always find and manage your printer’s IP manually.
What is an IP Address?
Think of an IP address as your printer’s home address on your network. It’s a unique identifier that helps your computer, phone, or other devices communicate with the printer. Most printers use IPv4 (something like 192.168.1.100), but some modern ones may use IPv6, a longer and more complex address.
Related article: How to Hide My IP Address Without VPN
Conclusion
Finding your printer’s IP address doesn’t have to be a hassle. Whether you check directly on the printer, through your computer, or via your router, these methods ensure you can locate it quickly. With your printer’s IP, you can troubleshoot issues, connect new devices, and optimize network settings effortlessly.
Need more help? Check your printer’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for model-specific guidance.
FAQ
1. Is the IP address on the printer itself?
Yes, some printers display it on their screen or allow printing a network report.
2. What is a printer’s IP address?
It’s a unique identifier that allows devices to communicate with the printer.
3. How do I connect my printer by IP?
In Windows or macOS, add the printer manually using its IP address.
4. Can I connect to my printer without knowing the IP address?
Yes, if your printer supports AirPrint, Wi-Fi Direct, or Bluetooth, it can be detected automatically.
