How to Fix it Brother Printer Won’t Connect to WiFi
In today’s digital age, wireless connectivity has become a standard feature for most devices, including printers. Connecting your Brother printer to a WiFi network allows you to print from multiple devices without the need for cumbersome cables. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step approach to help you connect your Brother printer to WiFi, ensuring seamless printing from your computer, smartphone, or tablet.
Benefits of Connecting Your Brother Printer to WiFi
- Convenience: Print from any device connected to the same network without physically connecting to the printer.
- Mobility: Allows for wireless printing from smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
- Multi-Device Access: Multiple users can access the printer without needing to share cables.
- Reduction of Clutter: Eliminates the need for multiple cables and creates a cleaner workspace.
Prerequisites for Connecting Your Brother Printer to WiFi
Before you begin the process, ensure you have the following:
- WiFi Network Name (SSID): The name of the WiFi network you want to connect to.
- WiFi Network Password: The password for the WiFi network.
- Brother Printer: Ensure the printer is powered on and within range of your WiFi network.
Step-by-Step Guide to Connect Your Brother Printer to WiFi
Step 1: Prepare Your Printer
- Turn On the Printer: Ensure that your Brother printer is turned on and in a ready state.
- Reset Network Settings: If the printer has been previously connected to another network, it might be helpful to reset the network settings. To do this:
- Press the Menu button on the printer.
- Navigate to Network > Network Reset.
- Follow the prompts to reset the network settings.
Step 2: Connect Using the Printer’s Control Panel
- Access Network Settings:
- Press the Menu button on the printer.
- Use the arrow keys to navigate to Network and press OK.
- Select WLAN and press OK.
- Choose Setup Wizard and press OK.
2. Select WiFi Network:
- The printer will search for available WiFi networks.
- Scroll through the list of networks and select your WiFi network (SSID) by pressing OK.
3. Enter WiFi Password:
- Enter the WiFi network password using the printer’s control panel. Use the arrow keys to select characters and the OK button to confirm each character.
- Once the password is entered, press OK to complete the setup.
4. Confirmation:
- The printer will attempt to connect to the WiFi network. Once connected, it will display a confirmation message.
- Print a network configuration page to confirm the connection. This option is usually available in the Network menu.
Step 3: Connect Using WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)
If your router supports WPS, you can use this method for a quicker setup.
- Enable WPS on Router:
- Press the WPS button on your router. The button is usually labeled “WPS” or has a WPS icon.
2. Enable WPS on Printer:
- On the printer, press the Menu button.
- Navigate to Network > WLAN > WPS and press OK.
- Choose Push Button and press OK.
3. Automatic Connection:
- The printer will attempt to connect to the WiFi network automatically.
- Once connected, a confirmation message will appear on the printer’s display.
Step 4: Install Printer Software on Your Computer
After connecting the printer to the WiFi network, you need to install the printer software on your computer to enable communication.
- Download Software:
- Visit the Brother support website (https://support.brother.com) and navigate to the downloads section.
- Enter your printer model number and download the latest drivers and software for your operating system.
2. Install Software:
- Run the downloaded installer file and follow the on-screen instructions.
- During the installation, choose the Wireless Network Connection option when prompted.
- The installer will search for the printer on the network and complete the setup.
Step 5: Connect Mobile Devices
To print from smartphones and tablets, you can use the Brother iPrint&Scan app.
- Download the App:
- Go to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and download the Brother iPrint&Scan app.
2. Connect to Printer:
- Ensure your mobile device is connected to the same WiFi network as the printer.
- Open the app and follow the prompts to detect and connect to your Brother printer.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Despite following the steps, you may encounter issues. Here are some common problems and solutions:
Printer Not Connecting to WiFi
- Incorrect Password:
- Double-check the WiFi network password and re-enter it.
2. Weak Signal:
- Ensure the printer is within range of the WiFi router and there are no significant obstructions.
3. Network Reset:
- Try resetting the network settings on the printer and attempt the setup process again.
Printer Not Detected by Computer
- Firewall/Antivirus Interference:
- Temporarily disable firewall or antivirus software during the installation process.
2. Network Issues:
- Ensure the computer is connected to the same WiFi network as the printer.
- Restart the router and the printer.
Mobile Device Issues
- App Update:
- Ensure you have the latest version of the Brother iPrint&Scan app.
2. Network Connection:
- Verify that the mobile device is connected to the same network as the printer.
Conclusion
Connecting your Brother printer to a WiFi network enhances its functionality and provides the convenience of wireless printing from various devices. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can successfully connect your printer to WiFi and enjoy seamless printing.
Remember to keep your printer’s firmware and software updated to avoid connectivity issues. Should you encounter any problems, the troubleshooting tips provided can help resolve common issues and get your printer back online quickly.