When connecting a modern printing device to a local network, users often face the need to manually configure ports. Network printer It doesn't work the same way as the USB model and requires proper addressing. The main protocol here is TCP/IP, which ensures stable data transfer between the computer and the device.
Many people mistakenly believe that it is enough to simply find the device in the list of available ones, but for corporate environments or specific drivers, it is often necessary to create standard TCP/IP portIt's through this port that the operating system sends print jobs, bypassing the standard Windows discovery services. Knowing which port and protocol to use solves 90% of print queue hangups.
In this article, we will take a detailed look at which ports are used by default, how they differ, and how to properly configure the connection so that your Wi-Fi printer worked without a hitch. We'll cover the technical nuances of the protocols and help you avoid common configuration errors.
Network Printing Basics and Data Transfer Protocols
Network printing is based on a protocol stack TCP/IP, which is the foundation of the modern internet and local area networks. When you send a document, the data is broken into packets and transmitted to a specific "address" within the device. This address is IP address, and the door through which the data enters is called port.
Unlike USB, where the connection is physical and direct, a Wi-Fi connection requires logical routing. The operating system must know exactly where to send the byte stream. This is accomplished using data transfer protocol, which defines the rules for packaging and delivering information. Raw TCP/IP has become the most widely used de facto standard.
⚠️ Attention: If you change your router settings or reset it, The printer's IP address may change (if it's not statically reserved). This will cause the created port to stop working, and printing will stop.
There are several basic methods of data transfer, each of which has its own characteristics. Windows By default, it tries to use its own detection methods, but they are not always effective in mixed networks. Understanding the difference between Raw, LPR And IPP will help you choose the best option for your infrastructure.
Port 9100: Raw TCP/IP standard for direct printing
The most common and frequently used port for network printers is the port 9100He is also known as JetDirect (a term originating from old HP cards) or simply Raw TCP/IP. This port provides direct, unrestricted data transfer from the computer to the printer.
The main advantage of using port 9100 is speed and minimal overhead. The protocol doesn't check the printer's status before sending each page as aggressively as other methods, making it ideal for large volumes of printingThe data is sent in a stream, and the printer begins processing it immediately.
- 🚀 High speed data transmission due to the absence of unnecessary service information.
- 🔌 Versatility: Supported by almost all network printers released after 1990.
- ⚙️ Easy to set up: Requires only an IP address and port number, no complex queue names.
When setting up in Windows, you select the device type Raw and specify the port 9100This is standard behavior for most drivers. If your printer "sees" the network but doesn't print, manually creating port 9100 often solves the problem.
Port 515 and the LPR Protocol: A Unix Legacy
Protocol LPR (Line Printer Remote) and its corresponding port 515 are a legacy of the operating systems of the family UnixWhile this may seem archaic today, many corporate printers and print servers still use this method to ensure compatibility.
Unlike Raw TCP/IP, LPR requires not only an IP address but also an indication queue name (Queue Name). By default, on many devices this word raw, lp or auto. If you specify an incorrect queue name, printing will fail, even if the IP address is correct.
The use of LPR is justified in heterogeneous networks where Windows is used together with Linux or macOSThis protocol is better at managing queues and prioritizing tasks, which is important in offices with a large number of users.
- 📝 Requires precise indication queue name (often
raw or ip).
- 🖥️ Ideal for mixed networks with Linux And Mac.
- 🛡️ Provides more reliable print queue management under high load.
When configuring port 515 in Windows, uncheck "Enable LPR byte counting" if the printer is behaving incorrectly. This is a common error that causes the printer to get stuck in the "Printing" status, but no paper is fed.
IPP and Port 631: Internet Printing and AirPrint
Protocol IPP (Internet Printing Protocol) operates through a port 631 and is a more modern approach based on HTTP. It allows printer control and printing jobs even over the internet, although it is less commonly used on local Wi-Fi networks.
The key feature of IPP is the ability to transmit additional attributes, such as cartridge status, paper levels, and encryption support. This protocol is the foundation of the technology. AirPrint from Apple and services Google Cloud Print (in its classical sense).
⚠️ Attention: Printer web configurator interfaces are constantly being updated. The location of IPP protocol settings may differ from those described. Always consult the official user manual for your model. HP, Canon or Brother.
If you use On macOS or mobile devices, the system often automatically finds the printer via IPP. However, forcing a connection in Windows sometimes requires manually entering the address in the format http://IP-address:631/printers/printer_name.
What is the difference between HTTP and IPP?
IPP is a layer on top of HTTP. While HTTP simply transfers files (like web pages), IPP adds print control commands, such as "duplex printing" or "paperclip," that regular HTTP doesn't understand.
Network ports comparison table
To help you organize the information and quickly select the right connection method, we'll review the main differences in the table below. This will help you understand which port to use in your specific situation.
Protocol
Port
Type
Main application
Raw TCP/IP
9100
Binary
Standard for Windows, fast printing
LPR/LPD
515
Text
Unix/Linux systems, print servers
IPP
631
HTTP-based
Apple AirPrint, remote printing
WSD
Dynamic
SOAP/HTTP
Automatic detection in Windows
As can be seen from the table, Port 9100 is the most versatile solution for Windows-based home and office networks.It provides better compatibility with old and new drivers without the need for complex queue name settings.
Instructions: How to create a TCP/IP port in Windows
Configuring a manual port in Windows 10 and 11 is done through the classic Control Panel, as the new Settings menu often hides these options. First, make sure the printer is connected to Wi-Fi and you know its IP address.
Open the Control Panel and go to Devices and Printers (or Printers and Scanners → Management → Print Server Properties). Find the Ports tab and click the button. Add port.... Select from the list Standard TCP/IP Port.
☑️ Create a TCP/IP port
Completed: 0 / 4
The Add Port Wizard will launch. Enter your device's IP address. The system will attempt to query the device. If the query is successful, Windows will automatically detect the device type. If an error occurs, select "Custom" → "Options" and ensure the protocol is selected. Raw and the port 9100.
- 🔍 Click
Start and enter control printers for quick access.
- ⚙️ In the Port Wizard, it is important to disable the "Poll the printer" option if it does not respond.
- ✅ After creating the port, select it from the list of available ports for your driver.
After completing the setup, try sending a test page. If printing works, the port is configured correctly. If not, check to see if your firewall is blocking the connection on port 9100.
Common problems and their solutions
One of the most common issues is when the printer status changes to "Use Offline Mode." This often happens if Windows can't connect to the port. Check to see if the IP address of the router or the printer itself has changed.
Another problem is port duplication. When connecting automatically, Windows may create a WSD port, but you manually create a TCP/IP port. Print spooler may show multiple copies of the same printer. Remove unnecessary devices, leaving only those bound to your manual port.
⚠️ Attention: Antivirus packages (such as Kaspersky or ESET) may have their own built-in firewall. If the standard Windows features are configured correctly but printing still doesn't work, check the network settings in your antivirus software.
It's also worth mentioning the issue with SNMP. The "Enable SNMP" checkbox is often enabled in the TCP/IP port settings. This protocol polls the printer for toner status. If the printer is older or low-end, it may not respond to SNMP requests, and Windows will consider the port unavailable. Disabling SNMP often solves the problem of the "Error" status.
Why is the printer not visible on the network?
The most common cause is client isolation (AP Isolation) on the router. This feature prevents devices within the Wi-Fi network from "seeing" each other. Disable it in the router's wireless settings.
Additional nuances and safety
Using open ports, especially 9100, carries certain security risks. In corporate networks, port 9100 is often closed at the firewall level, as it could theoretically be used to inject malicious code into printer memory (printer exploit attacks).
This rarely poses a threat to a home network, but in an office, it's best to use VLANs for printers or configure access rules. Modern printers also support IPPS encryption (port 631 with SSL), making document interception impossible.
Update your firmware regularly (firmware) of your network printer. Manufacturers patch vulnerabilities in network stacks, ensuring the security of your data. Don't ignore notifications about the availability of new software versions.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find out my printer's IP address if it doesn't print?
On most devices, you can find the IP address by printing a network configuration report. This usually requires holding down the "Cancel" or "Information" button for 5-10 seconds. The address is also often displayed on the MFP screen itself in the "Network" or "Wi-Fi" menu.
Can port 9100 be used for Mac OS?
Yes, you can. When adding a printer in macOS, select the "IP" tab, select "HP Jetdirect - Socket" in the protocol (this is port 9100), and enter the address. The system will automatically select the driver.
What to do if port 9100 is blocked by your ISP?
ISPs rarely block internal local network ports. If the problem is with port 9100, it's most likely due to Windows Firewall or antivirus settings. Try temporarily disabling them for diagnostic purposes.
What is the difference between WSD and TCP/IP port?
WSD (Web Services for Devices) is an automatic discovery protocol that's convenient for beginners but often unstable. TCP/IP is a manual, static method that guarantees a stable connection but requires knowledge of the IP address.