7 Ways to Find Your Printer’s IP Address

When your printer is connected to the computer or the internet, it has its own special ‘address’ called an IP address.

This IP address, consisting of 12 digits, is a unique number for your printer. It helps your computer communicate to your printer. 

When you need to solve any problem with your printer, the IP address is the first thing you need. Without it, your computer can’t send any printing tasks to your printer.

So, how to find printer IP addresses? This article will show you seven easy ways to find your printer’s IP address. Let’s get started!

What Is An IP Address?

An IP (Internet Protocol) address is a one-of-a-kind string of digits that marks a device’s identity when it logs onto the Internet. You could also take it as your device’s personal street address in the online world. 

Likewise, it allows computers to locate each other online and exchange data. You may think of it as your device’s home address online.

Simply put, it is a digital identity or a kind of online passport that identifies a device, just like an email address. Additionally an IP address is required for sending and receiving information.

How To Find The IP Address On A Printer

In networked printing, knowing your printer’s IP address plays a significant role when installing network printers, configuring firewall settings, or even troubleshooting. Let’s learn the 7 easy ways to find IP addresses.

1. Finding Your Printer’s IP Address On Windows

Windows users can quickly discover their printer’s IP address with a few easy steps. 

• Firstly, you’ll need to open your computer’s ‘Control Panel.’ 
• Within it, you’ll find an option ‘Devices and Printers.’ 
• Select it, and you’ll be greeted with a list showcasing every device connected to your computer. 
• Among them, find the icon of your printer and right-click on it. This will give you a few options, from which you need to choose ‘Printer Properties.’ 
• Upon clicking this, you’ll see a new window on your screen equipped with multiple tabs.
• If you see three tabs, go to the “Web Services” tab to find your IP address.
• If you see five tabs, go to the “Ports” tab to find your IP address.

Remember: Your printer uses either a WSD (Web Services for Devices) or a TCP/IP port to connect. The number of tabs you see depends on which one it uses.

2. How To Find Printer IP Address On Mac

If you’re a Mac user, here’s a simple way to start. 

• Begin by locating the Apple logo. You’ll find it on the upper-left side of your screen. 
• Once you click on it, a menu will drop down. 
• From this menu, you need to select ‘System Preferences.’ 
• A new window will appear upon clicking this, filled with different symbols. 
• Here, you need to find the one that says ‘Printers & Scanners’ and click on it. 
• Once you click it, you’ll see a list of printers on the left-hand side. 
• Select your printer, then click ‘Options & Supplies.’ 
• Then a new window will open with a ‘General’ tab, and you will see the printer’s IP address.

3. Finding Your Printer’s IP Address Through The Cups Webpage

The users can utilize the Common Unix Printing System (CUPS) to find their printer’s IP address. 

• Go to your “Applications” folder.
• Open the “Utilities” folder.
• Find and open the “Terminal” application.
• Type in “cupsctl WebInterface=yes” and press the “Enter” key. This will enable the CUPS web interface.
• Open the Safari web browser.
• In the address bar, type “localhost:631/printers” and press “Enter”.
• Finally, look for your printer’s IP address. It can be found in the “Location” column.

4. How to Find IP Printer Address Through The Router

Routers can provide a wealth of information about your network, including your printer’s IP address. 

• First of all, make sure you have the access rights to your router. You’ll be using the router’s setup menu to find your printer’s IP address.
• Open any web browser.
• In the address bar, type “192.168.1.1” and press “Enter”.
• You’ll be asked for your router’s username and password. If you don’t remember these, ask your admin for help.
• After logging in, look for something like “DHCP Client Table” or a “client list”. This is usually under the “Local Network” section.
• Open this list. You should see your printer listed here.
• Click on your printer. This will show you the printer’s IP address.

5. Finding Your Printer’s IP Address Through The Command Prompt (CMD)

The Command Prompt, or CMD is another valuable tool for Windows users. It allows you to view all devices connected to your network. 

• Simply open CMD and type ‘netstat -r.’ 
• A list will appear with IP addresses for all connected devices – including your printer. 
• This way, you can find yours.

6. How to Find the IP Address of A Printer Through The Network Configuration Page

An alternative way is to use the printer itself. Most printers come with a network configuration page that shows the printer’s IP address. You might need to check your printer’s manual for specific instructions. Usually, you can get this page through your printer’s settings or by pressing a certain button for a long time.

If you have a HP Laserjet Pro M1212n:

• Go to “Set-up”.
• Choose “Reports”.
• Select “Reports Demo Page”.
• Finally, click on “Config Report”. Your printer should now print the page.

If you have a Canon imageRUNNER printer:

• Go to the “Main Menu”.
• Select “Settings”.
• Choose “Preferences”.
• Finally, click on “Network”. Your printer should now print the page.

For printers without a display screen, you can usually print the network configuration page by pressing the “Power”, “Go”, or “Wi-Fi” button for about five to ten seconds.

7. Finding Your Printer’s IP Address Through The Printer’s Menu

For printers equipped with built-in screens, you can find the IP address in the menu system. 

• Firstly, check your printer’s manual for specific instructions.
• Press the “Home” button on your printer to bring up the menu.
• Choose “Preferences”, “Options”, or “Wireless Settings”.
• Check the top of the next box that shows up. Sometimes, the IP address is shown on the top edge.

If you can’t find the IP address:

• Go to “View Wireless Details” and look for it there.
• You could also navigate to “Networking” or “Network Setup” options.
• Look under headings like “TCP/IP”, “Network Status”, or “Wi-Fi Status”. These sections might have your printer’s IP address.

Conclusion

Locating your printer’s IP address may seem technical, but it’s an invaluable skill. For troubleshooting network issues, configuring new devices, or securing connections, these seven methods are suitable for most commonly used devices and systems. However, the instructions may vary slightly between devices, so always refer to your printer’s manual or manufacturer’s website for the most accurate guidance. After knowing how to find printer ip address, you can handle your printer setup easily.