What is up, you guys!
We heard about a shop running four lasers with four separate laptops. FOUR.
At that point, you're not just running a laser shop. You've accidentally opened a small computer lab. 😂
And listen, we're not judging. We all have those little annoyances in the shop we keep working around. The file that's on the other laptop. The cable that only works if you hold it just right. The extra steps you do every day because, well, that's how we've always done it.
But all those little workarounds add up. So this week's shop fix is simple: get your compatible lasers on a network and use one computer to send jobs through LightBurn.
Three wiring options, the IP settings on our laser, and where to click inside LightBurn. It's easier to see than to explain with interpretive Ethernet cables.
Prefer written instructions? Keep scrolling. We've got the steps and the important IP address notes below.
THE PAYOFF
Why bother networking your lasers?
Because every unnecessary step in your workflow is a tiny tax on your time.
01
Less hardware
No dedicated laptop required at every compatible laser.
02
Files in one place
Stop hunting for the latest version on the wrong computer.
03
Fewer workarounds
Less USB juggling and less walking back and forth.
Heads up: This applies to LightBurn-compatible Ethernet controllers, including many Ruida-controlled CO₂ lasers. Not every laser that works with LightBurn can be networked this way. Check your controller before buying anything.
PICK YOUR SETUP
3 ways to hook everything up
You do not need an IT department. You need Ethernet cables and a plan. Possibly a $20 box.
OPTION 01 / THE LONG-CABLE SPECIAL
Run each laser to your main router
Plug each machine into a LAN port on your router and connect your LightBurn computer to the same network. Simple. Until the router has no free ports and the machines are on the other side of the shop. Suddenly you're decorating with Ethernet cable.
OPTION 03 / DIRECT CONNECTION
Plug the switch straight into your computer
No connection to your main router is required. BUT you'll need static IP settings for the computer's Ethernet adapter and every laser, since there's no router assigning addresses on that isolated connection. It's a great option if you want a dedicated laser network and don't mind a little more setup.
SAVE THIS SECTION
Set it up in LightBurn (without losing your mind)
Garrett does the walkthrough in the video. Here's your written cheat sheet for when you're standing at the machine with a keyboard in one hand and a coffee in the other.
STEP 01
Find your network's numbers
On Windows, press Windows + R, type cmd, hit Enter, and then type ipconfig. Look for your IPv4 address, subnet mask, and default gateway.
Your network might be 192.168.1.x, or it might use a different range. Don't assume yours matches ours.
WAIT! Before you copy those numbers...
The 200s are easy to remember, but .201 is not automatically available. Check your router's DHCP assignment range and its connected-device list. Give each laser a unique address that isn't already taken or being automatically handed out.
Gateway tip: Your gateway is usually the router's actual IP address (often 192.168.1.1), not 192.168.1.0. On a direct isolated network, a gateway generally isn't needed for local laser communication.
STEP 02
Give every laser its own address
On many Ruida controllers, use Menu (or Z/U) → IP Config. Enter the unique IP address you chose for that laser and save. Repeat for the others, changing the last number each time. Label each machine with its IP address while you're at it. Future You will thank you.
STEP 03
Tell LightBurn which laser is which
In our video, Garrett starts with an existing USB device and changes the connection from Devices → Edit to Ethernet, then enters the laser's IP address.
You can also follow LightBurn's documented route: Devices → Create Manually → choose your controller → Ethernet/UDP, then enter the IP and set up the proper work area and origin. Name it something useful, like Laser 1 – NOVA 14, not “Laser Thingy 3.” Keep the USB profile as a backup if you want.
STEP 04
Switch machines and check the connection
Select a laser in LightBurn. On supported Ruida setups you may see “Found” and controller details appear. Switch to another laser and verify that one too.
No connection? Check that the laser is on, its cable is plugged in, the addresses are correct, and you're using the right device profile. Before sending an actual job, double-check the machine, bed size, origin, and material settings. We want less chaos, not a surprise engraving on the wrong laser.
GOOD QUESTION
Wait. Do I need a LightBurn license for every laser?
Nope. LightBurn licensing is based on computer activations and compatible controller types, not one license per laser. You can add multiple supported machines to a single computer and select which one you're using.
So this setup can save you extra computers and simplify managing software activations. Just remember, networked lasers aren't automatically a production queue. Check LightBurn's current licensing FAQ here.
YOUR MISSION THIS WEEK
Fix one thing you've been ignoring.
Not 52 new tools. Not 52 new products. Just 52 improvements to the business you've already built. That is how you get a whole lot more efficient without doing a whole lot more work.
All right, your turn.
How many lasers are in your shop, and are they networked yet? Even better, what's the one shop bottleneck you're finally going to tackle this week?
Drop it in the comments. It might inspire somebody else's next shop fix. Or become the subject of a future Motivational Monday.
Go make something. Sell something.
And we'll see you next Monday.
Kim & Garrett
THE GOOD STUFF
Links & resources
Ethernet switch →
The budget-friendly switch mentioned in the video. OFFICIAL GUIDE
LightBurn Ethernet setup →
Extra steps and troubleshooting straight from LightBurn. MORE MEMBER TOOLS
Master It Home Base →
Your business training, SVG tools, and member resources.
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1 comment
Awesome information, I have 4 xTool lasers (only 2 operational at the moment) because of ventilation (I am working on that and trying to not cut holes in the house :) ). I would love to see how others set up multi ventilation in their home setups.