Find printer IP address

Your printer is part of your local network, just like your computer or smartphone. It has its own IP address, which allows devices to communicate with it. Whether you're trying to connect wirelessly, configure settings, or troubleshoot a network issue, knowing how to find your printer’s IP address is essential.

This guide breaks down how to find a printer IP address on Windows and macOS, directly from the printer or through your router. You’ll also learn why it matters for privacy, and how to reduce network exposure with tools like a vpn.

Why you might need to find a printer IP address

Most printers today are network-connected, meaning they communicate over Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Like any device on your network, your printer is assigned an IP address that identifies it.

You may need your printer's IP address to:

• Connect to it from new devices

• Access its internal settings through a browser

• Troubleshoot network errors or connectivity issues

• Assign a static IP for more reliable printing

• Reduce your exposure to unauthorized access

If you care about privacy and control over your data, knowing what’s on your network — and where — is step one.

How to find a printer IP address on Windows

Method 1: Use the Control Panel

1. Open Control Panel from the Start menu

2. Click Devices and Printers

3. Right-click your printer and select Properties

4. Check the Ports or Web Services tab for the IP address

Method 2: Use command prompt

1. Press Windows + R, type cmd, and press Enter

2. Type ping printername (replace with your printer’s name)

3. The IP address will appear in the response if the device is online

How to Find a Printer IP Address on macOS

Method 1: Use System Settings

1. Click the Apple menuand go to System Settings

2. Select Printers & Scanners

3. Choose your printer from the list

4. Click Options & Supplies

The IP address may be listed under Location or General

Method 2: Use Terminal

1. Open Terminal

2. Run: lpstat -p -d or dns-sd -B _ipp._tcp

3. Identify your printer and its IP in the output (if broadcasted)

How to find a printer IP address from the printer menu

If your printer has a built-in display or touchscreen, it may list the IP address directly.

If the printer has a display:

1. Navigate to Network Settings or Wireless Settings

2. Look under TCP/IP or Wi-Fi Status

3. The IP address should be visible in the summary

If the Printer Does Not Have a Display:

1. Press and hold the Information, Network, or Wi-Fi button

2. Wait for a configuration page to print

3. Find the IP address in the printed report under IPv4 or Network Details

4. Check the printer manual for device-specific instructions.

How to find a printer IP address from your router

If you can’t access the printer directly, your router can show all connected devices.

Steps to find the IP address via your router

1. Open a browser and enter your router’s IP (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1)

2. Log in with your router’s admin credentials

3. Look for a section like Connected Devices, DHCP Clients, or Device List

4. Find your printer in the list: it will be listed by name or MAC address, with the IP next to it

For better stability, consider assigning your printer a static IP using your router’s interface.

Why your printer IP address matters for your privacy

Printers can store sensitive data, including previous print jobs, access credentials, or scan logs. If left unsecured, they can expose your information or serve as an entry point to your network.

To reduce risks:

• Change default passwords on your printer and router

• Disable remote management features you don’t need

• Keep printer firmware up to date

• Use NymVPN to encrypt traffic between your device and any cloud-based printer services

While a VPN doesn’t protect your local area network directly, NymVPN does safeguard your internet-bound traffic and metadata. This helps prevent third-party surveillance or fingerprinting of your online activity.