Add a Printer Using an IP Address in Windows 11 or 10

Adding a printer to your Windows computer is usually a quick process when the system detects it automatically. However, there are situations where your printer does not appear in the list of available devices. This is especially common in office networks, shared environments, or when using a network printer connected via Ethernet or WiFi. In such cases, adding a printer using its IP address becomes the most reliable method.

An IP address is a unique identifier assigned to a device on a network. When you use the printer’s IP address, you are directly telling your computer where to find that device, bypassing automatic discovery issues. This method works efficiently on both Windows 11 and Windows 10, and it is often used by IT professionals to ensure accurate printer setup.

In this guide, you will learn a complete, beginner-friendly, step-by-step process to add a printer using an IP address. Even if you are not technically experienced, you will be able to follow along easily and successfully connect your printer.

How to Add a Printer Using an IP Address in Windows 11 or 10?

To add a printer using an IP address in Windows 11 or 10, open Settings, go to Bluetooth and Devices, select Printers and Scanners, click Add Device, then choose Add manually. Select Add a printer using TCP/IP address, enter the printer’s IP address, and follow the on-screen instructions to install the correct driver and complete the setup.

This method ensures a stable and direct connection, especially in environments where multiple devices are connected to the same network.

Now, let’s talk in detail!

Step 1: Find the Printer’s IP Address

Before you can add the printer, you need its correct IP address. Without this, the connection cannot be established.

Most printers display their IP address on the screen. If your printer has a digital display panel, navigate to the Network Settings or Wireless Settings section. Look for options such as TCP/IP, WiFi Status, or Network Configuration, where the IP address will be listed.

If your printer does not have a screen, you can print a network configuration page. This is usually done by pressing and holding a specific button or combination of buttons on the printer. Refer to your printer’s manual if needed.

Another way to find the IP address is through your router. Log in to your router’s admin panel using a web browser, then check the list of connected devices. Your printer should appear there along with its assigned IP address.

Make sure to note the IP address carefully. It typically looks like 192.168.1.100 or something similar.

Step 2: Open Printer Settings in Windows

Now that you have the IP address, the next step is to open the printer settings on your computer.

On Windows 11, click the Start menu, open Settings, and navigate to Bluetooth and Devices. From there, select Printers and Scanners.

On Windows 10, open the Start menu, go to Settings, select Devices, and then click on Printers and Scanners.

This section shows all printers currently installed on your system. It also allows you to add new devices manually.

Take your time to familiarize yourself with this interface, especially if you are new to Windows settings.

Step 3: Start the Manual Printer Addition Process

In the Printers and Scanners section, click on Add Device or Add a Printer or Scanner.

Windows will begin searching for available printers automatically. Since your printer may not appear in this list, wait a few seconds until the option The printer that I want is not listed becomes visible.

Click on this option to proceed with manual setup.

This step is important because it gives you access to advanced options, including adding a printer using its IP address.

Step 4: Choose TCP/IP Printer Option

After selecting the manual option, a new window will appear with multiple ways to add a printer.

Select the option labeled Add a printer using a TCP/IP address or hostname, then click Next.

This tells Windows that you want to connect directly to a network device using its IP address.

You will now be prompted to enter the printer details.

Step 5: Enter the Printer’s IP Address

In this step, you need to input the IP address you found earlier.

In the field labeled Hostname or IP address, type the printer’s IP address carefully. Double-check for any typing errors, as even a small mistake will prevent the connection.

The Port name field will usually fill automatically. You can leave it as is unless you have specific requirements.

Make sure the option Query the printer and automatically select the driver to use is checked. This allows Windows to detect the correct driver if available.

Click Next to continue.

Windows will now attempt to communicate with the printer using the provided IP address.

Step 6: Install or Select the Printer Driver

Once the connection is established, Windows will try to install the appropriate printer driver.

If Windows already has the driver, it will install it automatically. If not, you may be prompted to select a driver manually.

You can choose the printer manufacturer and model from the list provided. If your printer model is not listed, you can download the latest driver from the manufacturer’s official website and install it manually.

Installing the correct driver is crucial because it ensures that your computer can send print commands properly to the printer.

Step 7: Set the Name of Your Printer

After the driver installation, Windows will ask you to assign a name to your printer.

You can keep the default name or change it to something more recognizable, such as Office Printer or Home Network Printer.

Choosing a clear name is helpful, especially if you have multiple printers connected to your system.

Click Next to proceed.

Step 8: Choose Sharing Preferences

At this stage, Windows will ask whether you want to share the printer with other users on the network.

If you are using the printer in a home environment, you can choose Do not share this printer.

If you are in an office or shared workspace, you may enable sharing so others can access the printer through your computer.

Select your preferred option and click Next.

Step 9: Print a Test Page

Once the setup is complete, Windows gives you the option to print a test page.

It is highly recommended to do this to confirm that the printer is working correctly.

Click on Print a test page and wait for the output. If the page prints successfully, your printer has been added correctly using the IP address.

Click Finish to complete the process.

FAQs

What is a printer’s IP address?

A printer IP address is a unique number assigned to your printer on a network. It allows devices like your computer to locate and communicate with the printer.

Why should I use an IP address to add a printer?

Using an IP address is helpful when automatic detection fails. It provides a direct and stable connection, especially in network environments.

Can I add a wireless printer using an IP address?

Yes, as long as the printer is connected to the same network and has an assigned IP address, you can add it using this method.

What if Windows cannot find the printer using the IP address?

Make sure the printer is turned on and connected to the network. Double-check the IP address and ensure there are no typing errors. Also, verify that your computer is on the same network.

Do I need to install drivers manually?

In most cases, Windows installs drivers automatically. However, if it cannot find the correct driver, you may need to download it from the printer manufacturer’s website.

Is this method safe?

Yes, adding a printer using an IP address is completely safe and commonly used in both home and professional environments.