Find printer IP address

Find and secure your printer’s IP address fast

May 15, 20253 mins Read

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

Open Control Panel from the Start menu
Click Devices and Printers
Right-click your printer and select Properties
Check the Ports or Web Services tab for the IP address

Method 2: Use command prompt

Press Windows + R, type cmd, and press Enter
Type ping printername (replace with your printer’s name)
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

Click the Apple menuand go to System Settings
Select Printers & Scanners
Choose your printer from the list
Click Options & Supplies

The IP address may be listed under Location or General

Method 2: Use Terminal

Open Terminal
Run: lpstat -p -d or dns-sd -B _ipp._tcp
Identify your printer and its IP in the output (if broadcasted)

If the printer has a display

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

Navigate to Network Settings or Wireless Settings
Look under TCP/IP or Wi-Fi Status
The IP address should be visible in the summary

If the printer does not have a display

Press and hold the Information, Network, or Wi-Fi button
Wait for a configuration page to print
Find the IP address in the printed report under IPv4 or Network Details
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.

Open a browser and enter your router’s IP (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1)
Log in with your router’s admin credentials
Look for a section like Connected Devices, DHCP Clients, or Device List
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.

Printer IP address: Frequently Asked Questions

Can I find a printer’s IP address from my phone?

Yes. Many printer brands offer companion apps (like HP Smart or Canon PRINT) that let you view network status, including the IP address, directly from your mobile device when connected to the same network.

What does a printer IP address look like?

Most printer IPs are in the format 192.168.x.x or 10.x.x.x, similar to other local network devices. These private IP addresses are only accessible within your local network and are not visible to the internet.

Can I use a printer without knowing its IP address?

Yes, if your device auto-discovers the printer or uses USB. However, manual setup, remote access, or advanced settings typically require the IP address for proper configuration and troubleshooting.

Is it safe to access my printer using its IP address?

Yes—if you're on a secure local network. However, if the printer’s web interface isn’t password-protected or has remote access enabled, it’s best to restrict access and disable unused features.

Why is my printer’s IP address showing as 169.x.x.x?

A 169.x.x.x address means the printer couldn’t obtain a valid IP from your router. This often indicates a network problem. Restart the printer and router, and ensure the printer is connected to Wi-Fi or Ethernet.