Printer IP address keeps changing, so I can't keep it on the network.

[dlgarcia5]

It's always a huge chore trying to get something to print. It's telling me that it's offline or that it's off, but it's not. I notice that when I go to add it back in, the IP address keep changing. How do I keep this from happening?

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @dlgarcia5,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

Thank you for posting your query. I will be glad to help you.

I completely understand how frustrating it is, watching that IP address shift unexpectedly, almost feels like your printer playing hide‑and‑seek. Let’s anchor it firmly to your network so it stays reliably online:

Step 1: Identify a Good Static IP Address

Choose an IP within your network’s range but outside your router’s DHCP pool. For example, if your router gives addresses from 192.168.1.100 to .150, you might use 192.168.1.50.

Step 2: Access Your Printer’s Embedded Web Server (EWS)

1. Print a Network Configuration sheet (often held via Power + Resume/Test buttons).
2. Find the current IP on that sheet.
3. Open a browser, enter that IP in the address bar, and this brings up the printer’s web-based control panel.

Step 3: Change DNS from DHCP to Manual (Static)

In the EWS:

• Go to Networking → IPv4 settings.
• Switch from DHCP (or Auto) to Manual.
• Input: 
  • Static IP (e.g., 192.168.1.50)
  • Subnet Mask (e.g., 255.255.255.0)
  • Default Gateway (your router’s IP, e.g., 192.168.1.1).
• Click Apply.

Step 4: Confirm & Save the Settings

• Print a new Network Configuration page to confirm the IP is locked.
• If your printer model has a control panel, explore Network Settings → TCP/IP → choose Manual and key in values directly.

Step 5: Update Your Computer’s Printer Port

On your PC, update the printer port to the new static IP:

• Windows: go to Settings → Devices → Printers & scanners → select the printer → Manage → Printer Properties → Ports → edit to use the new IP.
• macOS: Remove the existing printer, then re‑add it using the static IP via System Settings → Printers & Scanners.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

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Regards,

VikramTheGreat