Have you ever tried to print something, but your PC couldn’t find the printer automatically? It happens often, especially in offices or shared networks.
The simplest and most reliable fix? Add your printer by its IP address.
Doing this creates a direct connection between your computer and the printer — no automatic detection issues, no delays, and fewer errors.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to add a printer by IP address in Windows 11, step by step, using different methods that even beginners can follow.
🧩 What Does It Mean to Add a Printer by IP Address?
Every network printer has a unique IP address, just like your computer or smartphone.
Adding a printer by IP means manually connecting to that printer using its address on your network.
Think of it like dialing someone’s phone number directly instead of searching for them in a contact list.
📌 Benefits of Adding by IP:
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Works even when automatic detection fails
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Offers stable and consistent connectivity
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Useful for office and network printers
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Lets you manage multiple printers on one network
🔍 Step 1: Find the Printer’s IP Address
Before adding the printer, you need to know its IP address.
🪜 Method 1: From the Printer’s Control Panel
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Go to your printer’s Menu or Settings.
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Navigate to Network Settings or Wireless Settings.
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Select View Network Configuration or TCP/IP Details.
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Note down the IP address (e.g.,
192.168.1.25).
🪜 Method 2: From the Router
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Log in to your router’s admin panel (usually
192.168.1.1). -
Look for Connected Devices or DHCP Client List.
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Find your printer in the list and note its IP address.
🪜 Method 3: Using Command Prompt
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Press Windows + R, type
cmd, and hit Enter. -
Type:
(Replace printername with your printer’s name.)
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The result will show your printer’s IP address.
⚙️ Step 2: Add the Printer by IP Address Using Windows Settings
This is the simplest method for most users.
🪜 Steps:
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Go to Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners.
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Click Add device.
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Wait a few seconds — if your printer doesn’t appear, click Add manually.
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In the pop-up window, select:
“Add a printer using a TCP/IP address or hostname.” -
Click Next.
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Under Device type, choose TCP/IP Device.
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In the Hostname or IP address field, enter your printer’s IP (e.g.,
192.168.1.25). -
Uncheck Query the printer and automatically select the driver to use (optional).
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Click Next to continue.
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Windows will search for the printer and install drivers automatically.
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Follow on-screen prompts and click Finish when done.
✅ Your printer is now added and ready to use.
⚙️ Step 3: Add Printer by IP Address Using Control Panel
Prefer the old-school way? You can still do it through the Control Panel.
🪜 Steps:
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Press Windows + R, type
control, and hit Enter. -
Go to Hardware and Sound → Devices and Printers.
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Click Add a printer at the top.
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Select The printer that I want isn’t listed.
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Choose Add a printer using a TCP/IP address or hostname → Click Next.
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Under Device type, select TCP/IP Device.
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Enter the printer’s IP address.
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Click Next.
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Windows will detect the printer and install drivers automatically.
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Once complete, click Finish to add your printer.
💡 Tip: If Windows can’t find the driver, you can manually install it using your printer’s CD or manufacturer’s website.
⚙️ Step 4: Add Printer by IP Address Using Command Prompt
For advanced users or IT admins, you can add printers using Command Prompt.
🪜 Steps:
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Open Command Prompt (Admin).
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Type the following command and press Enter:
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Replace
192.168.1.25with your printer’s actual IP address. -
Restart your computer to complete the installation.
This is particularly useful for deploying printers across multiple PCs on a network.
🧰 Step 5: Test the Printer Connection
Once added, it’s always smart to verify that everything works correctly.
🪜 Steps:
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Go to Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners.
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Select your newly added printer.
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Click Print a test page.
If the page prints successfully — congratulations! Your printer is now properly configured.
🧩 Step 6: Troubleshoot Common Printer Connection Issues
Even with the correct IP, you might face connection problems. Here’s how to fix them.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Printer not found | Incorrect IP or offline | Verify IP address and ensure printer is on |
| Printer driver error | Outdated or missing driver | Download the latest driver from manufacturer’s site |
| “Access denied” message | Network permission issue | Run as Administrator or adjust sharing settings |
| Prints are queued but not sent | Network lag or firewall | Restart spooler service and check firewall settings |
| Printer disappears after reboot | Dynamic IP issue | Assign a static IP to the printer |
💬 Pro Tip: Always assign your printer a static IP address to prevent it from changing automatically.
⚡ Step 7: Set the Printer as Default (Optional)
If you use the same printer often, set it as your default printer.
🪜 Steps:
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Go to Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners.
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Select your printer → Click Set as default.
This ensures all print jobs go directly to your preferred device.
🧮 Comparison Table: Add Printer Automatically vs. By IP Address
| Feature | Automatic Add | Add by IP Address |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Quick if detected | Slightly manual |
| Reliability | May fail on networks | Always consistent |
| Driver Control | Automatic | Manual or automatic |
| Best for | Home users | Offices & shared networks |
🧾 Summary: Adding a Printer by IP in Windows 11 Simplified
Adding a printer by IP address in Windows 11 gives you more control and reliability — especially when automatic detection doesn’t work.
Here’s a quick recap:
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Find the IP address first.
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Use Settings or Control Panel to add it manually.
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Test your connection and print a test page.
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Assign a static IP for long-term stability.
Once set up, you’ll never have to deal with “printer not found” errors again.
❓ FAQs About Adding a Printer by IP Address in Windows 11
1. How do I find my printer’s IP address quickly?
You can check your printer’s screen, router settings, or print a network configuration page directly from the printer menu.
2. Can I add a wireless printer using its IP address?
Yes. As long as your PC and printer are on the same Wi-Fi network, you can connect via IP.
3. What if Windows doesn’t detect my printer after entering the IP?
Verify the IP, ensure your printer is turned on, and disable any firewall temporarily.
4. Do I need admin rights to add a network printer?
Usually, yes — administrative privileges are required to install printer drivers.
5. Should I assign a static IP to my printer?
Absolutely. It prevents the IP address from changing, ensuring consistent connectivity.
🏁 Conclusion: Take Full Control of Your Printer Connection
Adding a printer by IP address in Windows 11 is one of the most reliable ways to ensure seamless printing — especially for shared or network setups.
With the simple steps above, you can connect, configure, and manage your printer like a pro — without waiting for Windows to detect it automatically.
Next time your printer “disappears” or fails to connect, remember:
Just add it by IP — it’s fast, simple, and guaranteed to work.