The ping command helps to determine if a device on a network is responding by IP address. You must know the IP address of a device before attempting to ping it. To find the IP address of a printer, refer to specific printer documentation on accessing network information.
Switch | Syntax | Result |
|---|---|---|
None | Sends four 32-byte network packets to the device at a specific IP address. A message indicates that a device configured with that IP address is communicating on the network. A message indicates that the device is not communicating on the network. | |
-t | Continuously pings the IP address until CTRL and C are pressed simultaneously. Use this switch when troubleshooting a connection and trying several different solutions. It provides a continuous check so you can immediately see when the changes you make improve network communications. | |
-a | Device responds with its hostname (example: www.yourhostname.com). Use this switch to confirm that you are pinging the correct device, as it also provides the associated hostname. | |
-n | Continuously pings a device where is the number of times (any number from 1 to 4294967295). Use this switch to ping a device a certain number of times and then stop, instead of pinging the device until the command is specifically stopped, as with the switch. | |
-l | Pings the IP address four times where is the size of the ping (any number from 0 to 65500 bytes). Note: Some networks are configured to ignore extremely large pings as a security precaution. |
Network communications issues can prevent the printer from communicating properly on the network. Common problems with networks include:
Network interference from radio frequencies
A bad port or cable
A loose network connection on the network
A network device, such as a router or a hub, that is turned off or has failed
Using ping is a simple way to identify some common network issues. Use the following guide to help find the cause of issues on your network. Refer to Using ping for details on using ping and its common switches.
Possible reason for message
A device on the network with the typed IP address is responding to pings.
Suggested action to take
If a network problem is still indicated, verify the IP addresses of network devices.
Note: The ping command confirms that a device with the specified IP address is responding, not that the intended device is responding. Check network settings carefully to ensure that you are troubleshooting the correct device. Verify that there are no duplicate IP addresses on the network.
Possible reasons for messages
Printer is configured for a different network or misconfigured.
There is a problem with the network.
Suggested actions to take
Print a network setup page and check the printer configuration.
Check network equipment and make sure it is functioning properly.
Possible reasons for messages
There is interference on the network.
Network equipment is malfunctioning.
Network is extremely busy.
Suggested actions to take
Remove potential sources of interference.
Check network equipment and make sure it is functioning properly.
Reconsider network structure.
Possible reasons for messages
There is interference on the network.
Network equipment is malfunctioning.
Suggested actions to take
Remove potential sources of interference.
Check network equipment and make sure it is functioning properly.