Finding the printer IP address on a Mac is often the first step to solving print queue issues, adding a printer for the first time, or troubleshooting network connectivity. This guide walks you through several reliable methods that work across macOS versions and printer models.
Whether your printer is connected via Wi‑Fi or Ethernet, macOS provides clear paths to reveal the IP address so you can manage the printer with confidence.
| Method | When to Use | Access Level | Time Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Printers & Scenery Pane | Quick GUI lookup | User | 1–2 minutes |
| System Settings → Printers & Scanners | Detailed printer list | User | 1–3 minutes |
| Router admin page | No printer software installed | Admin | 3–5 minutes |
| Printer control panel | Direct from device | User | 2–4 minutes |
| Printing a network configuration page | Offline or IP needed for setup | User | 2–3 minutes |
Access Printers & Scanners Preference Pane
macOS consolidates printer information in one dedicated preference pane, making it a reliable starting point for locating the IP address.
You can open this pane from the Apple menu or from System Settings, and you will see each configured printer along with its current status.
Steps to Find IP in Printers & Scanners
Once you open the preference pane, select your printer from the list, and the IP address appears in the connection details, eliminating the need for guesswork.
Use System Settings for Network Printers
System Settings on modern macOS versions gives you fine control over printers and makes the IP address visible without installing extra tools.
This method works even if you are using a network printer that appears as an AirPrint device or a manufacturer-specific driver.
Navigating macOS Settings
Open System Settings, click Printers & Scanners, choose the printer, and you can view the IP address alongside other connection information such as the protocol and port.
Check Your Router DHCP Client List
If you cannot reach the printer from your Mac or do not have the printer software installed, your router’s DHCP client list is a dependable alternative.
This list shows every device with an assigned IP address on your network, including printers that use DHCP.
Accessing Router Admin Interface
Log in to your router admin page, locate the DHCP client or connected devices section, and look for a hostname that matches your printer model to identify the IP address quickly.
Print a Network Configuration Page from the Printer
A network configuration page is a direct printout that lists the current network settings of the printer, including the IP address, subnet mask, and other useful details.
Not all printers support this, but when available, it is one of the fastest ways to confirm the IP without relying on your computer.
Steps to Print the Page
Press the appropriate menu buttons on the printer control panel, navigate to network settings or reports, and select the option to print the network configuration page.
Key Takeaways for Managing Printer IP on Mac
- Use System Settings → Printers & Scanners for a straightforward view of the IP address.
- Access the Printers & Scanners preference pane when you need quick information without admin tools.
- Check your router’s DHCP client list if the printer does not appear in macOS.
- Print a network configuration page from the printer for offline verification of the IP address.
- Reserve a DHCP address in your router to keep the printer IP stable for repeated use.
FAQ
Reader questions
How do I find the IP address of my HP printer on a Mac?
Open System Settings, choose Printers & Scanners, select your HP printer, and the IP address is shown in the connection details pane.
Can I find the printer IP address without using the Mac at all?
Yes, print a network configuration page from the printer or check the DHCP client list on your router to see the assigned IP address.
What should I do if the IP address keeps changing on my printer? Set a DHCP reservation in your router for the printer’s MAC address so it always receives the same IP. Is it safe to share the printer IP address on a public Wi‑Fi network?
Sharing the IP address is generally low risk, but avoid using open public Wi‑Fi for printing sensitive documents and prefer a trusted network.