Adding a printer by its IP address in Windows 11 is a straightforward process once you know the steps. First, you’ll need to access the Windows Settings and navigate to the Devices section. From there, select the option to add a printer, but instead of searching for available printers, you’ll choose to add one using its IP address. This method ensures a direct connection, minimizing any potential hiccups in locating your printer on your network. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have your printer ready to use!
Adding a Printer by IP Address in Windows 11
This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of adding a network printer using its IP address on a Windows 11 device. By following these steps, you’ll be able to quickly and efficiently connect to the printer and start printing your documents.
Step 1: Open Windows Settings
Press the Windows key on your keyboard and select “Settings” from the Start menu.
The Windows Settings menu is where you can adjust a variety of system preferences. Accessing it is the first step in customizing your device to meet your needs, including adding new hardware like a printer.
Step 2: Navigate to Devices
In the Settings window, click on “Devices” to access the devices menu.
The Devices section allows you to manage all peripherals connected to your computer, including printers, scanners, and even Bluetooth devices. It provides a comprehensive overview of your device ecosystem.
Step 3: Click on “Printers & Scanners”
Select “Printers & Scanners” from the left sidebar in the Devices menu.
This section is specifically dedicated to managing printers and scanners. Here, you can see a list of existing devices and have options to add new ones or troubleshoot issues.
Step 4: Add a Printer
Click the “Add a printer or scanner” button at the top of the window.
This button initiates the process of searching for nearby printers. However, since we’re adding the printer via its IP address, you’ll need to proceed to the next step.
Step 5: Select “The printer that I want isn’t listed”
When the scan completes, choose “The printer that I want isn’t listed.”
By selecting this option, you can manually set up a printer that might not be automatically detected, which is often the case for network printers accessed through an IP address.
Step 6: Add Printer by IP
Choose “Add a printer using a TCP/IP address or hostname” in the wizard, then click “Next.”
This option is designed for adding network printers that are recognized via an IP address. You’ll need the printer’s IP address handy for the next part of the setup.
Step 7: Enter IP Address
Enter the printer’s IP address in the “Hostname or IP address” field and click “Next.”
The IP address is the unique identifier for your printer on the network. Make sure to enter it correctly to avoid any connection issues.
Step 8: Install Printer Driver
If prompted, install the necessary drivers for the printer and complete the setup.
Drivers are essential for your computer to communicate correctly with your printer. Windows 11 may automatically find and install these, or you might need to provide them manually.
Once you’ve completed these steps, Windows 11 will finish setting up the printer. You should now be able to send print jobs directly to it. If everything is configured correctly, the printer will appear in your Printers & Scanners list, ready to use.
Tips for Adding a Printer by IP Address in Windows 11
- Double-check the IP address you entered; a single digit mistake can prevent connection.
- Ensure your printer is powered on and connected to the same network as your computer.
- Regularly update your printer drivers to avoid compatibility issues.
- If unsure of the IP address, print a network configuration page from the printer.
- Consider assigning a static IP to your printer to avoid reassignment by your router.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don’t know my printer’s IP address?
You can usually find the IP address in the printer’s network settings menu or by printing a network configuration page from the printer itself.
Can I add a wireless printer by IP address?
Yes, as long as the wireless printer is on the same network, you can add it using its IP address following the same steps.
Do I need administrative rights to add a printer?
Typically, you need administrative rights on your computer to install new hardware like a printer.
Why isn’t my printer showing up after entering the IP address?
Ensure that the printer is connected to the network and that the IP address entered is correct. Restarting your devices can also help resolve connectivity issues.
How do I print a test page to ensure the printer is working?
After the printer is added, go to “Printers & Scanners” in Settings, select your printer, and choose “Manage.” You’ll find an option to print a test page.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to Devices.
- Click on “Printers & Scanners.”
- Add a printer or scanner.
- Select “The printer that I want isn’t listed.”
- Add a printer using a TCP/IP address.
- Enter IP address.
- Install printer driver.
Conclusion
Adding a printer by IP address in Windows 11 can seem a bit like navigating a maze, but with the right map—this guide—you’ll find it’s pretty straightforward. This method is especially handy when dealing with network printers, as it circumvents the sometimes finicky automatic detection processes. Once added, your printer becomes a reliable member of your device team, ready to churn out documents whenever you need them.
Remember, the key is in the details: double-check those IP addresses, keep your drivers up-to-date, and ensure all devices are happily living on the same network. If you run into snags, revisit the steps or the FAQ section for common troubleshooting tips.
For those looking to expand their knowledge further, consider diving into additional printer networking topics. Learning about static IP addresses or network security can bolster your tech savvy, ensuring smooth sailing with all your home or office tech endeavors. Keep exploring, keep learning, and soon enough, you’ll be the go-to person for tech solutions in your circle!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.