Many laser MFP users face difficulties when trying to ditch the USB cable and switch to wireless printing. Model Brother DCP-L2520DWR Equipped with a built-in Wi-Fi module, it can be placed anywhere in the room as long as there's a router signal. This frees you from being tied to a single computer and allows you to print from smartphones and tablets.
The setup process may seem complicated due to the lack of a full touchscreen and the limited menu on the monochrome display. However, by following a clear sequence of steps, you can activate the network interface in just a few minutes. The key point Here is the correct sequence of button presses on the control panel.
In this guide, we'll cover all current connection methods, including WPS for quick synchronization and manual setup via the network menu. We'll also cover driver installation, as without the correct software, your computer won't see the printer on the local network, even if it's successfully connected to the router.
Preparing equipment and checking network parameters
Before setting up the MFP itself, you need to make sure your network equipment is working properly. Your Wi-Fi router must be turned on and broadcasting the network. Make sure you know network name (SSID) and the password for it, since this data will be required to enter it into the printer menu.
Position the device Brother DCP-L2520DWR in a strong signal reception area. Laser printers are often installed in niches or cabinets, which can critically reduce signal strength. Metal shelves and thick walls are a serious obstacle to radio waves.
⚠️ Important: Make sure your router is broadcasting in the 2.4 GHz band. The DCP-L2520DWR model does not support modern 5 GHz networks, so having two bands with the same name may cause connection conflicts.
For stable operation, it is recommended to reserve a static IP address for the printer in the router settings. However, for the initial connection, a functioning DHCP server is sufficient. This will prevent situations where, after rebooting the router, the computer stops seeing the printer due to a changed address.
Quick connection via WPS technology
The easiest way to set up a wireless connection is to use technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)This method allows you to transfer network security settings automatically, without having to manually enter a complex password using the navigation buttons on the printer.
To get started, click the button Menu on the MFP control panel. Using the arrow keys, find the item Network and press OK. Next, select WLAN and confirm the action again. In the menu that opens, find the option WPS and select it.
- 📡 Press the WPS button on your router (usually it has a corresponding icon).
- ⏳ A countdown timer will appear on the printer screen, waiting for a response from the router.
- ✅ After a successful connection, the message "Connected" will appear on the display.
If automatic connection doesn't occur, check if WPS is enabled in your router's web interface. Some providers disable this feature by default for security reasons, requiring you to enable it manually through your browser.
Manual Wi-Fi setup via the printer menu
If automatic mode doesn't work, you'll have to configure it manually. This method is more reliable on networks with hidden SSIDs or complex security settings. You'll need to be careful with the characters you enter, as case is important.
Enter the menu, go to Network -> WLAN -> Setup WizardThe printer will begin searching for available networks. When the list appears on the screen, use the arrow keys to select your network name and press OK.
Next, you'll need to enter your password. Use the up and down arrows to select characters and the right arrow to move to the next character. Be careful: it's easy to make a mistake, and correcting a long password with buttons is cumbersome.
☑️ Verify your password before entering it
After entering the password, the system will prompt you to apply the settings. The printer will attempt to obtain an IP address. A successful connection is confirmed by printing a network report or by the corresponding Wi-Fi icon on the display stopping flashing and remaining lit.
Installing drivers and software
A physical connection to the router is only half the battle. For your computer to be able to print documents, you need to install drivers and management utilities. Without them, the operating system will not be able to properly interact with the device.
We recommend downloading the latest software version from the manufacturer's official website. Do not use the included discs, as the driver versions on them may be outdated and not support new versions of Windows or macOS.
| operating system | Driver type | Necessary components |
|---|---|---|
| Windows 10/11 | Full Driver | Print driver, scanner, Status Monitor |
| macOS | AirPrint/CUPS Driver | Basic driver, scanning utility |
| Linux | LPR + CUPS | Print driver, configuration tool |
| Android/iOS | MOPRIA / AirPrint | Brother iPrint&Scan app |
During the installation process, the installer will prompt you to select a connection type. Select "Wireless Network." The installer will automatically find the device on the network by IP address. If the automatic search fails, you can specify the path to the printer manually.
What to do if the computer does not see the printer?
Make sure your computer and printer are on the same subnet. Check your Windows Firewall—it may be blocking network device detection. Try temporarily disabling your antivirus for diagnostics.
Setting up printing from mobile devices
One of the main advantages of a wireless MFP is the ability to print directly from a smartphone. iOS devices use built-in technology. AirPrint, which does not require installation of additional drivers.
Simply open a document or photo on your iPhone/iPad, tap the "Share" button, and select "Print." Your device should appear in the list of printers. Brother DCP-L2520DWRIf it's not there, check if your phone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
For Android users, the optimal solution is the app Brother iPrint&ScanIt offers advanced functionality, including scanning documents directly to your phone's memory and sending them via email or cloud services.
- 📱 Download the Brother iPrint&Scan app from Google Play or the App Store.
- 🔗 Launch the app and follow the instructions to add a printer.
- 🖨️ Select the file to print and adjust the settings (paper size, number of copies).
⚠️ Important: For AirPrint and the mobile app to work, it's critical that the mobile device and printer are connected to the same router. Guest networks often isolate devices from each other, making printing impossible.
Diagnosing and solving common problems
Even with proper configuration, network issues may still occur. Most often, problems are related to IP address changes in the router or software conflicts. The first step should always be printing a network report.
Click Menu -> Print Reports -> Network ConfigThis report will show your current IP address, connection status, and signal strength. If the status is "Disconnected," the problem is either physical or password related.
If the error light is on or the Wi-Fi icon is flashing, try resetting your network settings. To do this, find the "Network Settings" item in the network menu. Reset Network and confirm the action. After rebooting, repeat the connection procedure.
It's also worth checking whether your antivirus or firewall is blocking the ports needed for printing. The standard printing port is 9100, ports in the range are used for scanning 54920-54929.
How do I find out the IP address of my printer if it doesn't print a report?
If the printer isn't printing a report due to an error, you can try finding the IP address through the router. Go to the router's web interface (usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1), find the "DHCP Client List" section, and look for a device with a name starting with "BRW" or "Brother."
Is it possible to connect a printer to a hidden network (Hidden SSID)?
Yes, this is possible, but only through manual configuration. When selecting a network from the wizard list, select "New SSID" or a similar option and manually enter the network name and security type. The automatic search does not reveal hidden networks.
What do blinking Wi-Fi lights mean?
Rapid blinking usually indicates the network search or connection process. Slow blinking may indicate an authentication error (incorrect password). A steady light indicates a successful connection.
Do I need to turn off the router when setting it up?
No, the router must be turned on and stable. However, if the setup process freezes, rebooting the router and printer often helps clear the network request cache and restart the connection.