Adding a printer by IP address skips automatic discovery. Instead of waiting for the printer to announce itself, you tell the computer exactly where the printer is on the network. This is useful when Wi-Fi discovery, Bonjour, or mDNS is unreliable.
Does this affect you?
Use this if the printer has a valid IP address but does not appear automatically, or if you want a more stable connection on a larger or segmented network.
Add by IP address on Windows
This works even when the printer does not show in the search list.
- Find the printer IP address from its network menu, configuration page, or router device list.
- Open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners and click Add device.
- After the search, choose The printer that I want is not listed or Add manually.
- Select Add a printer using a TCP/IP address or hostname.
- Set device type to TCP/IP Device, enter the IP address, and leave automatic driver query enabled.
- Choose the detected driver or select the printer manufacturer and model when prompted.
Add by IP address on Mac
macOS keeps this in the IP tab of the add-printer window.
- Open System Settings > Printers & Scanners and click add printer, scanner, or fax.
- Open the IP tab.
- Enter the printer IP address.
- Choose IPP if the printer supports it, or LPD if the manual recommends it or IPP fails.
- Leave Queue blank unless the manual specifies one.
- Choose the specific driver if available, or Secure AirPrint/AirPrint for a modern fallback, then click Add.
More control
The IP address can change
Most routers assign addresses dynamically. If the printer receives a new IP after a restart, a manually added connection may point to the old address.
Reserve a fixed IP
In the router LAN or DHCP settings, reserve the printer IP for its MAC address. This keeps the manual setup working.
IPP vs. LPD
IPP is newer and can report status and supply levels. LPD is older but widely supported. If one protocol fails, try the other before giving up.
Why IP setup helps
Automatic discovery depends on local broadcast traffic that can be blocked by routers, VLANs, guest networks, or firewalls. IP setup connects directly.
Sources
- Microsoft Support – Add a Printer Using a TCP/IP Address (2025)
- Apple Support – Add a Printer or Scanner on Mac Using an IP Address (2025)
- HP Support – Find the Printer IP Address (2025)