Adding a printer by its IP address in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that can make printing more efficient, especially in office settings. First, ensure your printer is connected to the network and you know its IP address. Then, navigate to the “Printers & scanners” section in the Windows settings, select “Add a printer,” and choose “The printer that I want isn’t listed.” From there, enter the printer’s IP address and follow the prompts to complete the setup.
Add Printer by IP Address in Windows 11
This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of adding a printer by its IP address in Windows 11. It’s a reliable way to connect to network printers and ensure seamless printing.
Step 1: Open Windows Settings
Begin by clicking the Start menu and selecting “Settings.”
Windows Settings is your main hub for adjusting system configurations. You can access it quickly by pressing the Windows key + I on your keyboard.
Step 2: Navigate to Devices
Within the Settings menu, click on “Devices.”
This section allows you to manage all your connected devices, including printers, Bluetooth devices, and other peripherals.
Step 3: Access Printers & Scanners
Select “Printers & scanners” from the left sidebar.
You’ll find options related to printers, including the ability to add and troubleshoot them.
Step 4: Add a Printer
Click on “Add a printer or scanner.”
Windows will start searching for available printers. You’ll need to bypass this to enter your printer’s IP manually.
Step 5: Select “The printer that I want isn’t listed”
Click on the link that reads “The printer that I want isn’t listed.”
This option allows you to manually specify the printer’s network location.
Step 6: Choose “Add a printer using a TCP/IP address or hostname”
Select this option and click “Next.”
It provides a way to directly enter the IP address of your network printer.
Step 7: Enter Printer Details
Input the printer’s IP address and select “Next.”
Make sure to enter the correct IP address to ensure a successful connection. Double-check for any typos before proceeding.
After completing these steps, Windows 11 will establish a connection to your printer using its IP address. If everything goes smoothly, your printer will be added to the list of available devices, ready for use.
Tips for Adding a Printer by IP Address in Windows 11
- Ensure your printer is connected to the same network as your computer.
- Double-check the IP address of the printer before entering it.
- If you’re having trouble, restart your printer and computer, then try again.
- Keep your printer’s drivers up to date for optimal performance.
- If the printer isn’t recognized, check firewall settings that might block the connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find my printer’s IP address?
You can usually find the IP address on the printer’s display screen under network settings or by printing a network configuration page.
What should I do if Windows can’t find my printer?
Ensure your printer is on the same network, and check for any firewall settings or security apps that might be blocking the connection.
Can I use this method for wireless printers?
Yes, as long as the wireless printer is connected to the same network as your computer.
What if I don’t know the printer’s IP address?
Check your router’s connected devices list or refer to the printer’s manual for instructions on printing a network configuration page.
Will adding a printer by IP address work for all printers?
This method works for most network printers, but it might not work if the printer doesn’t support network connections.
Summary
- Open Windows Settings.
- Navigate to Devices.
- Access Printers & Scanners.
- Add a Printer.
- Select “The printer that I want isn’t listed.”
- Choose “Add a printer using a TCP/IP address or hostname.”
- Enter Printer Details.
Conclusion
Adding a printer by IP address in Windows 11 is an efficient way to manage network printers, especially in environments where printers aren’t directly connected by USB. Understanding how to do this not only saves time but also helps in maintaining an organized workflow.
By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your printer is easily accessible whenever you need it. Remember, if you encounter any issues, a simple restart or double-checking settings often resolves them. For more detailed troubleshooting, consider visiting online forums or the printer manufacturer’s website for additional support.
Exploring advanced features like this can boost your tech skills, making you more self-sufficient in managing your devices. So, why wait? Go ahead, connect your printer today and enjoy the hassle-free printing experience that Windows 11 has to offer.
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.