How to Find Printer IP Address? | 5 Easy Methods That Work
Alright, you have a printer, and it decides to be a bit uncooperative, let me break it down for you. You know what… your printers can smell you when you are in a hurry.
We’ve all been there: you need to make a quick printout though it may seem like your printer is not around the corner.
It may be that it is not connecting to the network, or it becomes necessary to configure a new feature that uses its IP address. Every website has an IP address, and so does every device.
But hey, do not be worried, you are in the hands of the right printer expert to help you locate your printer’s IP address!
This blog post will explain to you simply how to find printer IP addresses using a few simple methods. Well then let’s dive right in and start you off!
Why Do I Need to Know My Printer’s IP Address?
In simple words, a printer’s IP address is like a unique home address. It’s a 12-digit ID number used to connect it to another network or a device.
With this IP address, you or your devices can locate and communicate with the printer to send print jobs. Knowing your printer’s IP address helps when you need to:
- Connect the printer to new devices
- Troubleshoot network connection issues
- Access the printer’s web interface for additional settings or firmware updates
Let’s explore some methods to help you find this IP address.
How to Find Printer IP Address?
Method 1: Check Your Computer’s Control Panel
If you are using Windows (10/11) on your laptop or computer, follow these simple steps to find your printer’s IP address:
For Windows Users
- Go to the Windows search bar, type “Control Panel” and open it.
- Select “Devices and Printers” under “Hardware and Sound”.
- Right-click on your printer from the list and choose “Properties” or “Printer Properties”.
- In the properties window, go to the Web Services or Ports tab, where you should see the printer’s IP address.
- If your printer connects to your network printer through WSD (Web Services for Devices), you will see three tabs; if it connects over a TCP/IP port, you will see five tabs.
For macOS Users
For macOS devices, the process is slightly different. Follow these steps:
- Go to System Preferences from the Apple menu at the top left corner of your device or dock at the bottom of the screen.
- Select Printers & Scanners.
- Right-click on your Printer from the list and then on “Properties”.
- Tap “Option and Supplies’ and the IP address should appear in the “Location Section”, depending on the model.
Method 2: Check the Printer’s Settings Menu
Most Wireless Bluetooth printers with a display screen let you check the IP address directly on the device. It’s the fastest method to find an IP address, but if it doesn’t work, there are other ways to try. Here’s how:
- Look for a menu option labeled Settings, Network, Preferences, or Wireless on your printer’s display panel.
- Under network options, you should see something like TCP/IP, Network Status, or Wi-Fi Status.
- The IP address might be labeled as IP Address on the top border, or you may see something like 192.168.1.15.
Method 3: Use Your Router’s Web Interface
You can view all connected devices from your router. If you’re comfortable accessing your router’s settings, this method is great for finding any device connected to your network, including your printer.
- First, log into your router’s web interface. Type your router’s IP address into your web browser’s address bar.
- Once logged in, look for a section like the DHCP client table or list under the Local Network Section.
- Your printer will appear in the list of connected devices with its IP address next to you.
Note: You may need your router’s username and password to access these settings. Check with your internet service provider if you’re unsure.
Method 4: Use the Command Prompt (CMD)
Using the Command Prompt under administrative rights is the best way to find the IP address for your printer. This method applies to both Windows and macOS:
For Window Users
- Open the Windows key and search for “cmd“.
- When the “Command prompt pops on your device screen, type “netstat -r” and hit the enter button.
- You will see a complete list of connected network devices to your computer next to you.
- Look for the IP address of your printer.
For macOS User
If you’re a macOS user, here’s what you can do:
- Launch the browser that you prefer (Safari will work).
- Put “localhost:631/printers” in here.
- The IP addresses will show up in the Location column if printers are available.
Method 5: Print a Network Configuration Page
Some printers offer the option to print a network configuration page directly from the device. Check your photo printer’s manual for detailed information, but easily, you can do it through the printer’s settings. This page contains all the network information, including the IP address.
- On your printer’s control panel, navigate to Settings or Network Settings.
- Select the option to print a network configuration page or a test page.
- Once printed, you’ll find the IP address listed on the page, usually under “Network” or “IPv4 Address.”
Common Problems (and Solutions!) in Finding a Printer IP Address
If you’ve tried all the methods above and still can’t find the IP address, here are some troubleshooting tips:
- Double-check your printer’s connection. If the internet connection is weak on your side, you won’t be able to find its IP address.
- Some network connectivity issues are resolved through firmware updates. Check your printer manufacturer’s website for the latest update.
- Sometimes, all it takes is a quick reset of both your printer and router to re-install the connection.
Wrapping Up
Sometimes fixing your printer issues is more than removing a stuck paper. For some situations, it requires the IP address of your printer. Though finding it isn’t a big task. By following the above methods, you can locate it in no time.
Remember that knowing your printer’s IP address is a key step in maintaining a smooth, connected printing experience—so it’s worth taking a few minutes to get this right.