The advancement of technology has provided us with the convenience of wireless printing, eliminating the need for cumbersome cables and allowing seamless device communication. Brother printers have made this process exceptionally easy with their built-in Wi-Fi functionality. In this detailed guide, we will take you through the steps to connect your computer to a Brother printer via Wi-Fi, ensuring effortless printing from the comfort of your home or office.
Understanding the Benefits of Wireless Printing
Before diving into the steps for connecting your computer to a Brother printer, it’s essential to understand why wireless printing is a game-changer.
- Convenience: Wireless printers enable printing from multiple devices without being tethered by cords.
- Flexibility: Print from anywhere within the range of your Wi-Fi network, whether you are in the same room or across the house.
These benefits not only enhance productivity but also create a more organized and clutter-free workspace. Now, let’s explore the steps to connect your computer to a Brother printer using Wi-Fi.
Prerequisites for Connection
Before you begin the connection process, ensure you have all the necessary components ready:
1. Brother Printer
Make sure your Brother printer has wireless capabilities. Most modern Brother printers come with this feature, but it’s always good to verify.
2. Wi-Fi Network
A stable Wi-Fi connection is essential. Ensure that your Wi-Fi network is up and running. Take note of your network name (SSID) and password, as you’ll need these during the connection process.
3. Computer or Laptop
Your Windows or Mac computer needs to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Brother printer.
Step-by-Step Guide to Connect Your Computer to a Brother Printer via Wi-Fi
Connecting your Brother printer to your computer over Wi-Fi can be accomplished in several methods. Below we outline the most common and efficient ways to do so.
Method 1: Using the Brother Printer’s Control Panel
This method involves controlling the printer settings directly from the device itself.
Step 1: Turn On the Printer
Ensure that your Brother printer is turned on and ready for setup. If it’s your first time using the printer, go through the initial setup process.
Step 2: Access the Network Menu
- Press the Menu button on the printer’s control panel.
- Navigate to the Network option using the arrow keys and press OK.
- Select WLAN and then press OK.
Step 3: Configure the Wireless Settings
- Choose Setup Wizard and hit OK again.
- The printer will search for available networks. When the SSID of your Wi-Fi appears, select it.
- Enter your Wi-Fi password using the printer’s keyboard. Be sure to input it correctly, as it is case-sensitive.
Step 4: Confirm Connection
Once the credentials are entered, the printer will attempt to connect to the network. A confirmation message will appear on the screen indicating whether the connection was successful.
Step 5: Print Network Configuration Page
For verification, you can print a Network Configuration page to confirm the printer’s connection status. This can usually be done by going back to the Network menu and selecting Print Network Configuration.
Method 2: Using the Brother Printer Driver Software
If you prefer to set up the connection through your computer, the Brother printer driver can help streamline this process.
Step 1: Download the Driver Software
- Go to the Brother support website.
- Enter your printer model in the search bar.
- Select the appropriate operating system and download the latest driver software.
Step 2: Install the Printer Software
Upon completing the driver download, proceed with the installation:
- Open the installation file and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Choose the Wireless Network Connection option when prompted.
Step 3: Connect the Printer to Wi-Fi
During the installation process, you will be asked if your printer is already connected to your wireless network. Choose Yes if you’ve already configured the Wi-Fi settings using the first method. If not, select No and follow the on-screen instructions to configure your Brother printer directly from your computer.
Step 4: Complete the Installation
Once the printer is connected to Wi-Fi, the software installation will continue. Follow the remaining prompts to complete the installation, and ensure your printer is set as the default printer.
Method 3: Using WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)
If your router and Brother printer both support WPS, this method allows for a quick and straightforward connection.
Step 1: Confirm WPS is Available
Check your router for a WPS button. This button may be labeled as such or have a symbol resembling two arrows rotating around a dot.
Step 2: Start WPS Setup on the Printer
- On your Brother printer, access the Network menu via the control panel.
- Select WLAN and press OK.
- Choose WPS and press OK.
Step 3: Activate WPS on Your Router
Press the WPS button on your router. You typically have two minutes to complete this step.
Step 4: Complete the Connection
If successfully connected, your Brother printer will display a confirmation message.
Method 4: Connecting via Brother iPrint&Scan App
For users who prefer mobile devices, the Brother iPrint&Scan app provides a flexible solution for connection.
Step 1: Download the App
- For iOS devices, download from the App Store.
- For Android devices, get it from the Google Play Store.
Step 2: Connect Printer within the App
- Open the app and tap on + to add a printer.
- Select Wi-Fi Network Printer, and the app will detect your printer on the network.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the connection.
Troubleshooting Connection Issues
If you encounter difficulties while attempting to connect your Brother printer, consider the following solutions:
1. Ensure Printer is On and Connected
Confirm that your printer is powered on and connected to the Wi-Fi network. Use the Network Configuration page printed earlier for verification.
2. Check Network Settings
Make sure that your computer is connected to the same network as your Brother printer. Ensure that both devices are within range of the router.
3. Firewall and Security Settings
Sometimes, security settings or firewalls on your computer may block the connection. Temporarily disable these to see if the printer connects.
Conclusion
Connecting your computer to a Brother printer via Wi-Fi opens a world of convenience and flexibility for your printing needs. Whether you follow the printer’s control panel procedure, utilize the Brother driver software, employ WPS, or use the Brother iPrint&Scan app, each method is designed for ease of use.
Making the most out of your Brother printer’s wireless capabilities enhances productivity while freeing you from the limitations of wired printing. With these comprehensive steps and troubleshooting tips at your fingertips, you’ll be ready to print effortlessly from anywhere in your home or office. Embrace the ease of wireless printing and enjoy the seamless experience it offers!
What is the first step to connect my Brother printer to Wi-Fi?
To connect your Brother printer to Wi-Fi, the first step is to ensure that both your printer and your Wi-Fi network are powered on. Locate the printer’s control panel, and access the menu. Look for the “Network” or “Wi-Fi” option, which usually allows you to select the wireless networking setup.
Once in the network settings, locate the “WLAN” or “Wireless Setup Wizard.” This option will search for available Wi-Fi networks. Choose your Wi-Fi network name from the list, and when prompted, enter your Wi-Fi password to establish a connection. Wait for the printer to confirm the successful connection.
Can I connect my Brother printer to a hidden Wi-Fi network?
Yes, you can connect your Brother printer to a hidden Wi-Fi network, but the process is slightly different. First, make sure that you know the SSID (network name) and the password of your hidden network. Access the printer’s menu using the control panel and navigate to the network settings.
Select the option for manual setup or add a network. You will need to enter the SSID of your hidden network manually, and then input the Wi-Fi password. After entering this information, the printer will attempt to connect to the hidden network. If successful, you’ll receive a confirmation message.
What kind of devices can I connect to my Brother printer via Wi-Fi?
You can connect a variety of devices to your Brother printer via Wi-Fi, including desktop computers, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Most operating systems like Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS support wireless printing with Brother printers. Make sure that your device is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your printer.
Once your devices are connected to the same network, you can download the appropriate Brother printer driver or app if necessary. This software often makes it easier to connect and manage print jobs. After installation, you will be able to select the Brother printer from the list of available printers when printing documents or photos.
Do I need to install any software to connect my computer to the Brother printer?
Yes, installing the appropriate software or drivers is typically necessary to connect your computer to the Brother printer. The software ensures that your operating system can communicate effectively with the printer. You can download the necessary drivers from Brother’s official website or install them from the CD that came with your printer.
After downloading or installing the software, follow the on-screen instructions to connect your printer via Wi-Fi. Ensure that both the printer and your computer are on the same network, and you should be able to add the printer to your device settings for use. This setup process enhances compatibility and allows you to access all printer features.
What should I do if my Brother printer cannot find the Wi-Fi network?
If your Brother printer cannot find the Wi-Fi network, first check that your Wi-Fi router is working properly. Ensure that it is powered on and broadcasting the network signal. Consider moving your printer closer to the router during setup to avoid signal interference.
Additionally, verify that the Wi-Fi network is active and that your network name (SSID) is not hidden. If the printer still cannot detect the network, you may need to reboot both the printer and the router. Access the network settings on the printer again and attempt to reconnect to the Wi-Fi network.
How do I fix connectivity issues between my Brother printer and computer?
To fix connectivity issues between your Brother printer and computer, start by ensuring both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. You may want to check the printer’s display panel for network status and confirm the connection. If the printer is connected but not communicating with the computer, restart both devices.
Additionally, ensure that the correct printer driver is installed on your computer. If it’s outdated or incompatible with your operating system, it can cause issues. Reinstall the driver from Brother’s official website, or run the troubleshooting utility on your computer to identify and resolve any connectivity problems.
Can I print from my mobile device to my Brother printer over Wi-Fi?
Yes, you can print from a mobile device to your Brother printer over Wi-Fi. Brother offers mobile printing solutions such as the “Brother iPrint&Scan” app, which is available for both Android and iOS devices. Download the app from your device’s app store, and ensure your mobile device matches the Wi-Fi network your printer is connected to.
Once the app is installed, open it and follow the prompts to connect to your Brother printer. You’ll be able to print documents, photos, and other files directly from your mobile device without needing a computer. Make sure to explore the app’s features for easy scanning and printing options.