Connecting a Brother Printer to Wi-Fi: A Complete Guide with Photos and Tips

Wireless printer connection Brother Connecting to a home or office Wi-Fi network saves time, eliminates cable clutter, and allows you to print from any device—smartphone, tablet, or laptop. However, many users encounter difficulties during setup: the printer fails to find the network, constantly drops the connection, or requires unknown security settings. This article will help you understand all the nuances—from choosing the right connection mode to troubleshooting common errors.

We will consider universal methods for most models. Brother (including popular series DCP-T425W, MFC-L2710DW, HL-L2350DW And ADS-2800W), and we'll also cover specific scenarios, such as setting up via WPS or connecting to hidden networks. If your printer supports Wi-Fi Direct, you'll learn how to use this feature to print without a router. All instructions include screenshots from the control panel and explanations for users of all skill levels.

Before you begin setup, make sure your router is working properly and your printer is located within a strong signal range. Wi-Fi problems with a printer are most often not related to the device itself, but to incorrect network settings. For example, with MAC address filtering enabled or an outdated router firmware version. At the end of this article, you'll find an FAQ with answers to frequently asked questions and troubleshooting tips.

1. Preparing the printer and network for connection

Before setting up Wi-Fi on your printer Brother There are several mandatory steps that need to be completed. Neglecting them often leads to connection failures or unstable operation after setup.

First rule: The printer must be turned on and in standby mode (the power indicator is green or blue, not blinking). If the device is freshly unpacked, first install the cartridges, load paper, and wait for the initial setup to complete. For models with a touchscreen (e.g., MFC-J6945DW) this process may take up to 2-3 minutes.

Next, check your Wi-Fi network settings:

• 📶 Network frequency: printers Brother only support networks 2.4 GHzIf your router is in the mode 5 GHz or uses a combined name (SSID) for both bands, temporarily disable 5 GHz or separate the networks in the router settings.
• 🔒 Security type: the best option is WPA2-PSK (AES). If used WPA3Some older printer models may not connect. In this case, change the router's security type or update the printer's firmware.
• 📡 Signal strength: The printer should be no further than 5-7 meters from the router. Thick walls, metal structures, or other sources of interference (microwaves, cordless phones) can impair the connection.

If you are connecting the printer to a corporate network with portal authorization (for example, in an office or university), additional settings will be required - contact the network administrator for data SSID, EAP method and certificates. Brother printers do not natively support Captive Portal (web-based authentication) networks—you will need to use a USB cable or Ethernet connection for these.

2. Methods for connecting a Brother printer to Wi-Fi

There are four main methods for setting up Wi-Fi on printers. BrotherThe choice depends on the device model, firmware version, and capabilities of your router. Let's look at each in detail.

2.1 Connecting via the printer control panel (recommended method)

This method is suitable for most modern models with a display (for example, DCP-T720DW, MFC-L3770CDW). The instructions are universal, but the menu may differ slightly depending on the series:

1. Click the button Menu (or Settings) on the printer panel.
2. Go to the section Network → WLAN → Setup Wizard.
3. Select your Wi-Fi network from the list. If the network is not listed, click Manual Setup and enter SSID manually.
4. Enter the network password (make sure the characters are case-sensitive!). For hidden networks, enable the option first. Show Hidden SSID.
5. Confirm the settings and wait for the message Connected or Success.

If the printer asks IP address, Gateway or DNS, leave the value Auto (DHCP)In 90% of cases, manual IP configuration is not required.

2.2. Connecting via WPS (for routers with a WPS button)

Method WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) allows you to connect your printer to the network without entering a password. It only works if your router supports WPS and the feature is enabled in its settings. Instructions:

1. Make sure the WPS indicator on your router is blinking or lit (usually the button is located on the back panel).
2. On the printer, go to Menu → Network → WLAN → WPS.
3. Select Push Button Method (If your router only supports PIN code, select PIN Method and enter the code from the printer screen into the router's web interface).
4. Press the WPS button on the router within 2 minutes. The printer should connect automatically.

⚠️ Attention: Some printer models Brother (For example, HL-L2300D) do not support WPS. Check the specifications of your model before using this method.

2.3. Connecting via USB cable (for models without a display)

If your printer does not have a screen (for example, HL-L2350DW (in the basic configuration), you can use a USB cable and a computer with the software installed to set up Wi-Fi BrotherDownload the utility. Brother iPrint&Scan With official website and follow the instructions:

1. Connect the printer to your computer via USB.
2. Launch iPrint&Scan and go to the section Printer settings → Wireless network.
3. Select your Wi-Fi network and enter the password.
4. After successful connection, disconnect the USB cable.

2.4. Connecting via Wi-Fi Direct (for printing without a router)

Function Wi-Fi Direct Allows you to connect devices (smartphone, laptop) directly to the printer, bypassing the router. This is convenient for temporary printing while traveling or in places without network access. To activate it:

1. On the printer: Menu → Network → Wi-Fi Direct → On.
2. Remember or write down SSID And password, which the printer will generate automatically.
3. On your device (e.g. smartphone), connect to the printer's network as you would to a regular Wi-Fi connection.
4. Install the application Brother iPrint&Scan and start printing.

Please note: in Wi-Fi Direct mode, the printer cannot be connected to the main network at the same time. To return to normal mode, disable Wi-Fi Direct in the printer menu.

The printer is turned on and ready to use|

The router supports 2.4 GHz and WPA2|

Wi-Fi password at hand|

The printer is within network coverage area|

Brother software installed on your computer/smartphone (if required)

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3. Setting up the printer on a computer or smartphone

Once your printer is successfully connected to Wi-Fi, you need to configure the devices you'll be printing from. The process varies for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.

3.1. Installing drivers on Windows 10/11

Even if your printer is connected to the network, Windows may not automatically recognize it. Follow these steps:

1. Download the latest driver for your model from Brother website (select section Full Driver & Software Package).
2. Run the installer and select Wireless network connection.
3. When prompted, select your printer from the list of found devices. If your printer isn't displayed, click Refresh or enter it IP address manually (you can find out by printing it out) Network Configuration from the printer panel).
4. Complete the installation and print a test page.

If the printer does not print after installation, check Print queueSometimes documents get stuck due to driver conflicts. Restart your computer and printer.

3.2. Setup on macOS (Ventura/Monterey/Sonoma)

MacOS usually automatically detects printers. Brother on a local network, but additional software may be required for proper operation:

1. Open System Preferences → Printers and scanners.
2. Click + → select a tab IP.
3. In the field Address Enter the printer's IP (for example, 192.168.1.105).
4. In the field Protocol select Line Printer Daemon - LPD or AirPrint (for inkjet models).
5. Please enter your printer model in the field. Use and press Add.

To scan, install the utility Brother iPrint&Scan from the App Store. Some models (for example, MFC-J6545DW) support AirPrint, which allows you to print directly from iPhone/iPad applications without drivers.

3.3. Printing from a smartphone (Android/iOS)

To print from mobile devices, use the official app Brother iPrint&Scan:

• 📱 Android: Download the app from Google Play, allow file and network access, then select the printer from the list.
• 🍎 iOS: The app is available in the App Store. For models with support AirPrint You can print directly from Safari, Photos, or Mail.

If your printer doesn't appear in the app, check:

• 🔄 Are your phone and printer connected to the same Wi-Fi network?
• 🔒 Is there any traffic blocking in the router settings (for example, Client Isolation).
• 📡 Is your phone using a VPN or tethering mode?

4. Troubleshooting connection issues

If your printer won't connect to Wi-Fi or keeps losing connection, use these diagnostics. In 80% of cases, one of these solutions can resolve the issue.

4.1. The printer does not find the Wi-Fi network

Possible causes and solutions:

• 📵 Network is hidden (SSID is not broadcast): enable display of hidden networks in the printer menu (Manual Setup → Show Hidden SSID).
• 📶 Invalid range: printers Brother don't see the network 5 GHzSwitch the router to the mode 2.4 GHz or separate the networks.
• 🔄 Channel conflict: Change the channel in your router settings. 2.4 GHz on 1, 6 or 11 (they are less susceptible to interference).

4.2. The printer connects but does not print.

Check the following:

• 🖨️ Printer status: There should be no flashing error indicators on the panel (for example, Toner Low or Paper Jam).
• 🌐 IP address: if the printer has received an address 169.254.x.x, then DHCP didn't work. Assign a static IP manually (for example, 192.168.1.150).
• 🔌 Firewall/Antivirus: Disable them temporarily and try printing a test page.

4.3. The printer constantly disconnects from Wi-Fi

Frequent connection breaks are usually associated with:

• 📡 Weak signal: Move the printer closer to the router or use a repeater.
• ⚡ Energy savings: In the printer settings, disable the mode Sleep Mode or increase the idle time.
• 🔄 Firmware update: Check the printer software is up to date Brother iPrint&Scan or manually on support site.

⚠️ Attention: If after updating the firmware the printer stops connecting to Wi-Fi, reset the network settings: press and hold the button Wi-Fi for 10 seconds until all indicators flash. Then repeat the setup from scratch.

How to reset network settings on a Brother printer

1. Turn off the printer.

2. Press and hold the button Menu (or Go on some models) and turn on the power.

3. Hold the button for 20 seconds until all indicators flash.

4. After rebooting, network settings will be reset to factory settings.

5. Checking and optimizing the connection

To ensure your printer is working properly on your network, run a few tests. This will help prevent future issues.

5.1 Printing a test report

All printers Brother Can print a report on network settings. To do this:

1. Press and hold the button Wi-Fi (or Network) for 5–7 seconds.
2. The printer will print a sheet with parameters including IP address, MAC address, SSID And Signal strength.

Pay attention to the line Signal Strength:

• 🟢 80–100%: excellent signal.
• 🟡 50–79%: Rare interruptions are possible.
• 🔴 Below 50%: You need to move your printer or router.

5.2 Setting up a static IP address

If your router frequently changes devices' IP addresses (DHCP), the printer may become "lost" on the network. To assign it a permanent address:

1. Go to the router's web interface (usually at 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
2. Find the section DHCP Reservation (or IP to MAC Binding).
3. Add a new rule by specifying MAC address printer (can be found out from the test report) and the desired IP address (For example, 192.168.1.200).
4. Save the settings and reboot the router.

5.3. Updating the printer firmware

Outdated firmware may cause problems connecting to modern routers (for example, with WPA3 or 802.11ax). There are two ways to update the software:

• 🖥️ Via computer: Download the latest version from the website Brother, connect the printer via USB and run the firmware file.
• 🌐 On the network: In the printer menu, select Network → Firmware Update → Via Network.

⚠️ Attention: Do not turn off the printer during the firmware update. If the process is interrupted, the device may not turn on. In this case, you will need to contact a service center to update the firmware via the service port.

6. Alternative connection methods

If setting up Wi-Fi is not possible for some reason, consider alternative printer connection options. Brother.

6.1. Connection via Ethernet (LAN)

Many models (eg MFC-L2750DW) support a wired connection to the router. Advantages:

• 🔌 Stability: no signal or interference issues.
• 🚀 Speed: Data transfer via cable is faster than via Wi-Fi.

To configure:

1. Connect the printer to the router with a patch cord (use the port LAN, and not WAN).
2. On the printer, select Menu → Network → Wired LAN → On.
3. If required, please specify IP address manually (similar to setting up Wi-Fi).

6.2 Using a USB cable

If a wireless connection isn't critical, you can print via USB. To do this:

1. Connect the printer to the computer using a cable (usually included).
2. Install the driver from the official website (select the version for USB connections).
3. In the printer settings (Control Panel → Devices and printers) make sure that the device is detected without an exclamation mark.

The downside of this method is that printing is only possible from the computer to which the printer is connected.

6.3 Cloud Printing (Brother Web Connect)

Some models (eg MFC-J6945DW) support printing via cloud services Google Drive, Dropbox or OneDriveTo do this:

1. Register your printer with the service Brother Web Connect via the control panel.
2. Upload your document to a supported cloud.
3. On the printer, select Web Services → specify the file to print.

This method is convenient for printing from anywhere in the world, but requires a stable internet connection on the printer.

7. Comparison of connection methods

To choose the optimal connection method, please refer to the comparison table:

For most users, the optimal solution remains connection via Wi-Fi with a backup option in the form of Ethernet (if the router and printer are close). Method Wi-Fi Direct convenient for one-time tasks, but not suitable for continuous use due to limited functionality.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

🔹 Why can't my Brother printer see my Wi-Fi network?

The most likely reasons are:

• The network operates in the range 5 GHz (the printer only supports 2.4 GHz).
• The MAC address filter is enabled in the router (add the printer's MAC address to the list of allowed ones).
• The network is hidden (enable display of hidden SSIDs in the printer menu).

Solution: Check your router settings and reboot it.

🔹 How do I find the IP address of my Brother printer?

Methods:

1. Print it out Network Configuration (hold the button Wi-Fi 5 seconds).
2. Check the list of devices in the router's web interface (section DHCP Clients or Connected devices).
3. Use the utility Brother BRAdmin to scan the network.

🔹 Can I connect a Brother printer to two networks simultaneously?

No, printers Brother support connection to only one Wi-Fi network at a time. However, some models (e.g. MFC-L3770CDW) allow you to quickly switch between saved networks via the menu.

Alternative: Use Wi-Fi Direct for temporary connection of additional devices.

🔹 Why did my printer stop printing after a Windows update?

A system update likely reset the printer driver. Solution:

1. Remove the printer in the section Devices and printers.
2. Download the latest driver from the website Brother (do not use the driver from Windows Update!).
3. Install the driver in compatibility mode (right-click on the installer → Properties → Compatibility → select Windows 10).

🔹 How do I reset the Wi-Fi password on a Brother printer?

The printer doesn't store your Wi-Fi password—it only stores the connection settings (SSID and security type). To "forget" a network:

1. Go to Menu → Network → WLAN → SSID.
2. Select your network and click Delete or Forget.
3. Please reconnect using your current password.

If you've forgotten the password for your Wi-Fi network, you can find it in your router's settings or on a sticker on its body.