How do I manually change the IP address on my HP printer?

Having the correct IP address for your HP printer is essential for maintaining network connectivity and ensuring smooth printing operations. Whether you are reconfiguring your network, troubleshooting issues, or setting up a static IP address, knowing how to manually change the IP address on your HP printer is a useful skill. This guide will walk you through the process, step by step, so you can easily update your printer’s IP address when necessary.

Why Change the IP Address on Your HP Printer?

There are several reasons why you might need to change the IP address on your HP printer:

Network Configuration Changes: 

If you’ve made changes to your home or office network, your printer’s IP address may need to be updated to match the new configuration.

Avoiding IP Conflicts: 

If multiple devices on your network are using the same IP address, it can lead to conflicts. Manually assigning a unique IP address to your printer can resolve this issue.

Assigning a Static IP Address: 

By default, most printers use a dynamic IP address assigned by the router. However, a static IP address can ensure that your printer’s IP address remains consistent, making it easier to manage on the network.

Troubleshooting: 

If your printer is experiencing connectivity issues, changing the IP address can sometimes resolve the problem.

Steps to Manually Change the IP Address on Your HP Printer

Step 1: Access the Printer’s Embedded Web Server (EWS)

The first step in manually changing the IP address on your HP printer is to access the printer’s Embedded Web Server (EWS). This is a web-based interface that allows you to configure various settings on your printer.

Find the Current IP Address: Before you can access the EWS, you need to know the current IP address of your printer. Printing a network setup sheet from your printer will allow you to determine this. To learn how to accomplish this specifically, consult the handbook that came with your printer.

Open a Web Browser: On your computer or mobile device, open a web browser.

Enter the IP Address: In the browser’s address bar, type the current IP address of your printer and press Enter. This will direct you to the EWS of the printer.

Step 2: Log in to the Embedded Web Server

Once you’ve accessed the EWS, you may need to log in to make changes to the printer’s settings.

Enter Username and Password: If prompted, enter the printer’s admin username and password. If you haven’t set a custom username and password, the default credentials are often “admin” for both fields. Check your printer’s manual for the default login information.

Navigate to the Network Settings: After logging in, look for the “Network” or “Networking” tab in the EWS interface. This is where you can configure the printer’s IP address settings.

Step 3: Change the IP Address

Now that you’re in the Network Settings section, you can manually change the IP address.

Locate the IP Address Configuration: Look for a section labeled “IPv4 Configuration” or similar. This is where you can change the IP address settings.

Switch to Manual/Static IP: If your printer is set to obtain an IP address automatically (DHCP), you’ll need to change it to manual or static IP. This option may be labeled as “Manual IP,” “Static IP,” or something similar.

Enter the New IP Address: Input the new IP address you want to assign to your printer. Make sure it is within the correct range for your network and doesn’t conflict with other devices.

Enter the Subnet Mask and Default Gateway: You’ll also need to enter the correct subnet mask and default gateway for your network. These values can usually be found in your router’s settings.

Save Changes: After entering the new IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway, save your changes.

Step 4: Restart the Printer

Once you’ve changed the IP address, it’s a good idea to restart your printer to ensure that the new settings take effect.

Power Off: Turn off your printer by pressing the power button.

Power On: After a few seconds, turn the printer back on.

Verify the New IP Address: Once the printer has restarted, print another network configuration page to verify that the new IP address has been successfully applied.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter any issues while changing the IP address, here are some common troubleshooting tips:

Cannot Access the EWS: 

If you can’t access the Embedded Web Server using the printer’s current IP address, ensure that your device is connected to the same network as the printer. Restarting your printer and router is another option.

IP Address Conflict: 

If the new IP address conflicts with another device on the network, change the IP address to a different one.

Forgot Username/Password: 

If you can’t log in to the EWS, try using the default credentials. If you’ve forgotten your custom login information, you may need to reset the printer to factory settings.

FAQs

Can I change the IP address directly from the printer’s control panel?

Yes, many HP printers allow you to change the IP address directly from the control panel. Look for network settings under the printer’s menu options.

How do I know which IP address to use for my printer?

Choose an IP address that falls within your router’s IP range but is not currently assigned to another device. Your router’s documentation should provide guidance on the IP range.

Will changing the IP address affect my printer’s connection to my computer?

Yes, after changing the IP address, you may need to update the printer settings on your computer to ensure it connects to the new IP address.

What happens if I enter an incorrect subnet mask or gateway?

If you enter incorrect network settings, your printer may not be able to communicate with your network. Double-check the values before saving.

Can I switch back to DHCP after setting a manual IP address?

Yes, you can switch back to DHCP in the EWS if you want the printer to automatically obtain an IP address from the router.

Conclusion

Manually changing the IP address on your HP printer is a straightforward process that can help you maintain network stability, avoid conflicts, and troubleshoot connectivity issues. By accessing the Embedded Web Server and following the steps outlined above, you can easily assign a static IP address or update the existing one to meet your network’s needs. Always ensure that you’re using the correct network settings and double-check your changes to prevent any disruptions in printer functionality. With your HP printer properly configured, you’ll be ready to enjoy hassle-free printing.