Connecting a multifunctional device Brother DCP-L2520DWR Connecting to a wireless network allows users to print and scan from any device within range of the router. This eliminates the need for bulky USB cables and allows the device to be placed in the most convenient location with access to a power outlet, but not necessarily near the computer. However, initial network configuration often presents difficulties for first-time users.
In this article, we'll cover in detail all the available methods for activating the Wi-Fi module on your MFP. You'll learn how to use automatic configuration via WPSHow to manually enter your network details through the control panel and what to do if your device doesn't detect the router. Following these steps carefully will help you avoid common errors and save time on troubleshooting.
Before starting the process, make sure your router is turned on and providing internet access, and your printer has toner. It's also a good idea to know your wireless network password in advance, as you'll need to enter it. If you've changed your router settings, make sure MAC address filtering isn't enabled, as this could block new devices.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
The first step to successfully integrating a printer into a local network is proper physical preparation. Make sure that Brother DCP-L2520DWR Connected to a power source and located within a strong signal range. The distance to the router shouldn't be critical, especially if there are load-bearing walls or metal structures between them that shield the signal.
It is important to understand that this model supports safety standards. WPA2-PSK And WPA3, however, in rare cases, conflicts with older encryption protocols may occur. If your router is configured to operate in wireless mode only 802.11b/g/n, problems usually do not arise, but mixed modes sometimes require manual adjustment.
⚠️ Important: Make sure you're trying to connect to a 2.4 GHz network. Most office printers, including this model, don't support 5 GHz, and if your router hides the 2.4 GHz network under one name (Smart Connect), the printer may not be able to find the access point.
Check the status of the indicators on the control panel. If the error indicator is illuminated or the toner lamp is flashing, troubleshoot these issues first. The network module may not activate if there are critical hardware errors in the system. It is also recommended to remove the protective shipping tape if the device has just been unpacked.
For a smooth user experience, it's best to use original consumables and drivers. Third-party cartridges can sometimes cause controller malfunctions, which can indirectly affect the device's network functionality, although this is rare.
Automatic connection via WPS technology
The fastest way to establish a connection between a router and a printer is to use technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method allows you to transfer the password automatically, eliminating the need to manually enter it using the small keyboard on the printer screen. This is especially convenient if you have a complex password with many special characters.
To get started, click the button Wi-Fi on the printer control panel. The wireless network menu will appear on the display. Use the arrow keys to select WPS and press OKAfter this, the printer will go into waiting mode for a signal from the router.
Now go to your router. Find the button. WPS on the router body and press it. On some models, you may need to hold the button for a few seconds until the indicator light flashes. If your router doesn't have a physical button, access the router's web interface through a browser and enable WPS there.
- 📡 Press the WPS button on the router within 2 minutes of starting the function on the printer.
- 🖨️ The printer will automatically try to establish a connection and obtain an IP address.
- ✅ A successful connection is confirmed by the Wi-Fi indicator lighting up without blinking.
- 🔄 If the connection is not established, repeat the procedure, making sure you complete it within the allotted time window.
After successful pairing, the device will automatically save the settings. Subsequently, when turned on, it will automatically connect to a known network. This eliminates the need to repeat the process after every power outage.
Manual wireless network setup via menu
If automatic mode doesn't work or your router hides the network name (SSID), you'll have to enter the data manually. This method is more reliable in complex network environments involving non-standard equipment or specific security settings.
Click the button Wi-Fi on the device panel, then select Infrastructure (Infrastructure). The printer will begin searching for available networks. Find your network name (SSID) in the list that appears. If the list is long, use the navigation arrows to scroll.
Once you have selected your network, click OKIf the network is password protected, a keyboard will appear on the screen. Enter the password using the alphanumeric keypad. Be careful with the case of the letters, as Wi-Fi sensitive to this parameter. Confirm the action after entering.
⚠️ Caution: It's easy to make a mistake when entering a password on the printer screen. Use the character display feature (if available in your firmware version) or enter the data slowly, checking each character.
In some cases, you may need to specify the authentication type manually if automatic detection does not work. This is usually Open, Shared, WPA-PSK or WPA2-PSKFor home networks, the standard is WPA2-PSK (AES).
☑️ Manual setup checklist
Setting up a static IP address and TCP/IP
For stable operation of the printer in an office or a large apartment, it is recommended to set up a static IP addressThis ensures that the device's address does not change after rebooting the router, which is important for the correct operation of drivers on computers.
In the wireless network menu, go to the section TCP/IPHere you can select the address retrieval mode: Auto (DHCP) or StaticIf you select static mode, you will need to enter the IP address, subnet mask, and gateway manually.
| Parameter | Description | Example of meaning |
|---|---|---|
| IP Address | The printer's unique address on the network | 192.168.1.50 |
| Subnet Mask | Subnet mask determines the size of the network | 255.255.255.0 |
| Gateway | Gateway address (usually the router address) | 192.168.1.1 |
| DNS Server | Domain Name Server (optional) | 8.8.8.8 |
Make sure the IP address you select is in the same subnet as your computer but doesn't conflict with the addresses assigned by your router via DHCP. It's best to choose addresses from the higher or lower end of the range, for example, 192.168.1.200to avoid intersections.
After changing network settings, the device may require a reboot. This is normal, as the network card needs to initialize the new settings. Wait until the system has fully booted before attempting to print.
Installing drivers and software
Once the printer is connected to the network, you need to install the software on your computer. This will allow the operating system to "see" the device and send tasks to it. You can download the latest drivers from the manufacturer's official website.
Run the setup file and select the connection type Wireless (Wireless). The setup program will begin searching for the device on the network. If you have configured a static IP address, you can select to connect by IP address for guaranteed results.
What to do if the computer does not see the printer?
Make sure your computer and printer are on the same subnet. Check to see if Windows Firewall or antivirus software is blocking the connection. Try temporarily disabling them for diagnostics. Also, make sure the printing protocol is installed on your computer.
During installation, you may be prompted to configure additional features, such as network scanning or toner level monitoring. It is recommended to install the full package. Brother iPrint&Scan or similar software for advanced functionality.
If the installation was successful, try printing a test page. This will confirm that data is being transferred over the network without loss. If errors occur, check the print queue status and whether any jobs are stuck.
Diagnosing problems and resetting settings
During operation, situations may arise where the printer stops responding or loses connection to the router. This is often due to a change in the Wi-Fi password or a firmware update on the router. In such cases, resetting the network settings to factory defaults can help.
To reset, go to the menu, select Network -> Network Reset. Confirm the action (Yes). The printer will reboot, and all network settings will be deleted. After this, you will need to repeat the setup procedure.
- 🔍 Check the indicators: a blinking Wi-Fi light means searching or an error, a steady light means there is a connection.
- 📡 Make sure that the router hasn't changed the channel to one that the printer doesn't support (it's rare, but it does happen).
- 🔌 Try temporarily disabling MAC filtering on your router to test.
- 📄 Print a configuration report to see the error code if the connection fails.
If the problem persists after resetting and reconfiguring, it's possible the Wi-Fi module is faulty or incompatible with the new router. In this case, you should contact a service center or try updating the device's firmware via USB.
⚠️ Note: Resetting network settings does not affect fax or phone book settings, but it does reset IP addresses and Wi-Fi passwords. You will need to re-enter your network security key.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can the Brother DCP-L2520DWR be connected to a 5GHz network?
No, this model only supports the standard 802.11 b/g/n, which operates exclusively in the 2.4 GHz frequency range. If your router only broadcasts 5 GHz, the printer won't see the network. You need to enable 2.4 GHz mode in your router settings.
How do I find out my printer's IP address if it doesn't print?
You can print the network configuration report by clicking the button Wi-Fi and selecting the appropriate option, or by holding the Wi-Fi button for 2 seconds (depending on the firmware version). You can also find the IP address in the list of connected clients in your router's web interface.
The printer loses Wi-Fi connection after being idle, what is the reason?
This could be due to your router's power-saving settings, which turn off sleeping devices, or an unstable signal. Try assigning a static IP address to the printer and checking the signal strength where the device is installed.
Does this model support Wi-Fi Direct?
Yes, model DCP-L2520DWR Supports Wi-Fi Direct technology, allowing mobile devices to connect directly to the printer without a router. Configuration is performed via the wireless network menu on the device's control panel.