Add a network printer to your Mac using its IP address

Why it happens

Your Mac normally spots printers on the same network by itself. Some networks block that, for example in some offices, or when the printer sits on a different part of the network, so the printer never shows up in the list. Typing its address tells your Mac exactly where to find it.

How to fix it

1. Find the printer's IP address first. Most printers show it in their network or Wi-Fi menu on the front screen, or print it on a network or configuration page. It looks like 192.168.1.25.

2. Click the Apple menu, choose System Settings, then click Printers & Scanners in the sidebar. Click Add Printer, Scanner, or Fax….

   Printers & Scanners

3. In the window that opens, click the IP tab at the top, the one with a globe. Type the printer's address in the Address box.

4. Set Protocol to AirPrint if the printer supports it, or Internet Printing Protocol - IPP otherwise. Wait a moment while your Mac checks the printer and fills in its name.

5. Check the Use menu. AirPrint is the simplest choice. Click Add, then print a test page from any app to make sure it works.

Still not fixed?

1. If your Mac says it can't reach the address, check the printer is on, awake and on the same network as your Mac. Print a fresh network page in case its address has changed.

2. If the address keeps changing after the printer restarts, give it a fixed address. Many routers let you reserve an address for a device in their settings, or you can set one on the printer itself.

3. If AirPrint doesn't connect, remove the printer and add it again choosing a different protocol from the same Protocol menu, such as Internet Printing Protocol - IPP or Line Printer Daemon - LPD.

4. If the printer prints nonsense or blank pages, choose a different driver in the Use menu, for example Generic PostScript Printer, or install the maker's own software for your model.

5. If other computers can't print to it either, the printer itself needs attention, so contact its maker. If only your Mac fails after all this, contact Apple Support.