how to connect my brother wireless printer

3 min read 17-01-2025

how to connect my brother wireless printer

Connecting your Brother wireless printer can seem daunting, but it's a straightforward process once you understand the steps. This guide will walk you through connecting your Brother printer to your Wi-Fi network, whether you're using a computer, smartphone, or tablet. We'll cover troubleshooting common issues as well.

Before You Begin: What You'll Need

Your Brother Printer: Make sure it's turned on and within range of your Wi-Fi router.
Your Wi-Fi Network Name (SSID) and Password: You'll need this information to connect the printer to your network.
A Device to Connect With: This could be a computer (Windows or Mac), a smartphone (Android or iOS), or a tablet.
The Brother Printer's Setup Guide: While we'll cover general steps, your specific model might have slightly different instructions. Refer to your printer's manual for detailed model-specific instructions.

Method 1: Connecting via the Printer's Control Panel (Wireless Setup Button)

Many Brother printers have a dedicated Wi-Fi button. This is the easiest method:

Turn on your printer: Ensure it's powered on and ready.
Locate the WPS button (or Wi-Fi Protected Setup): This is usually labeled with a Wi-Fi symbol and often marked "WPS" or "Wi-Fi Protected Setup". It might be a button, or part of a button combination. Consult your printer's manual if unsure.
Activate WPS on your router: The process varies depending on your router. Typically, you need to press and hold the WPS button on your router for a few seconds. Refer to your router's manual for instructions.
Press the WPS button on your Brother printer: Within a specified timeframe (usually 2 minutes), press and hold the WPS button on the printer. The printer will begin searching for your network.
Wait for the connection: The printer should automatically connect to your Wi-Fi network. You'll likely see a confirmation on the printer's display.
Test the connection: Print a test page to ensure everything is working correctly.

Method 2: Connecting via the Brother iPrint&Scan App (Smartphone/Tablet)

The Brother iPrint&Scan app simplifies the connection process for mobile devices:

Download the Brother iPrint&Scan app: Download the app from the Apple App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
Launch the app: Open the app on your smartphone or tablet.
Add a printer: Follow the app's instructions to add your Brother printer. You might need to enable Bluetooth or location services. The app will guide you through the process, often involving connecting to the printer's temporary network.
Connect to your Wi-Fi network: The app will prompt you to enter your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password.
Test the connection: Print a test page using the app.

Method 3: Connecting via a Computer (Windows)

This method is suitable for older Brother printers that lack a WPS button.

Install the printer drivers: Download the latest drivers from the Brother website, choosing your specific printer model. Make sure to download the drivers compatible with your operating system (Windows).
Connect the printer to your computer (temporarily): Use a USB cable to temporarily connect the printer to your computer.
Run the printer installation: Execute the downloaded installer.
Select the wireless connection option: During the installation, choose the "Wireless Network" option.
Enter your Wi-Fi credentials: Enter your network name (SSID) and password.
Remove the USB cable: Once the printer is connected wirelessly, you can remove the USB cable.
Test the connection: Print a test page.

Method 4: Connecting via a Computer (Mac)

The process for Mac is similar to Windows:

Download the printer drivers: Find and download the appropriate drivers for your Mac from Brother's support site.
Connect the printer via USB (temporarily): Connect the printer to your Mac using a USB cable.
Add the printer: macOS should automatically detect the printer. If not, manually add the printer using System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.
Select wireless network: During the installation, you'll be prompted to configure the wireless connection and enter your network credentials.
Disconnect the USB cable: Once the wireless connection is established, remove the USB cable.
Test the connection: Print a test page to verify the connection.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Printer not found: Ensure the printer is turned on, within range of your router, and that your Wi-Fi network is working correctly. Check for interference from other devices. Restart your router and printer.
Incorrect password: Double-check that you entered the correct Wi-Fi password.
Driver issues: Uninstall and reinstall the printer drivers. Download the latest version from the Brother website.
Network connection problems: If your Wi-Fi network is unstable, it might affect printer connectivity. Consider restarting your router and/or modem.
Firewall issues: Make sure your firewall isn't blocking the printer's connection.

If you continue to experience problems, consult your Brother printer's manual or contact Brother support for assistance. Remember to provide your printer model number for efficient troubleshooting.