It's hard to imagine a modern office or home workspace without a convenient network printer. Model Brother DCP-1623WR It has become a popular choice due to its reliability and wireless connectivity. However, initial network setup often raises questions for users new to the device's interface. In this article, we'll cover all the ways to activate wireless mode in detail.
Before starting the procedure, make sure your equipment is ready for use. Make sure the MFP is plugged in and the cartridge and drum are installed correctly. You will also need to know the password for your home network. WiFiIf the router is located far away, it's best to move the printer closer to the signal source during setup to avoid connection errors due to poor reception.
There are several connection methods, each with its own advantages. You can use the button WPS For instant synchronization, you can set up a network via a computer using a cable, or use the printer's menu. The choice of a specific method depends on your technical equipment and personal preferences. We'll cover each option in detail.
Preparing for wireless setup
The first step is to reset the previous network settings if the device was previously used on a different network. This helps avoid IP address conflicts and authorization errors. Find the button on the control panel Menu and go to the section NetHere you need to select the option to reset network settings, confirming the action with the button Yes or OK.
After rebooting the communication module, make sure that your router is broadcasting a signal. Brother DCP-1623WR Supports 802.11b/g/n standards, but does not work with 5 GHz networks. Make sure you are trying to connect to that band. 2.4 GHzIf you have a dual-band router, make sure it has a guest network feature enabled or a separate SSID for older devices.
It's also important to check the status of the indicators on the device. A blinking wireless indicator usually means the module is active but the connection hasn't been established. A solid indicator indicates a successful connection. If the indicator isn't lit at all, the WiFi option in the device's menu may be disabled by software.
⚠️ Note: Resetting network settings will delete all saved WiFi profiles from the printer's memory. You will need to re-enter your router password.
Connection method via WPS
The fastest way to connect is through technology. WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method allows you to transfer network settings automatically, without manually entering a password. To get started, click the WPS on your router. It's usually located on the back of the device and may require holding for a few seconds.
Then, within two minutes, go to the MFP Brother DCP-1623WR. Click the button Menu On the control panel, select Net, then WLAN and find the item WPSConfirm your selection, and the printer will begin searching for a signal. If your router supports the PBC (Push Button Configuration) method, the connection will be established automatically.
A successful connection will be confirmed by the indicator flashing, then turning solid. A new device should appear in the list of available printers on your computer or smartphone screen. This method is ideal if you don't know the network password or are worried about entering characters incorrectly using the printer's keys.
⚠️ Note: If your router uses MAC address filtering, the WPS method may not work. In this case, you will need to manually add the printer's address to the router's whitelist.
Setting up via the device menu (Setup Wizard)
If automatic setup is not possible, use the built-in wizard. Click Menu on the panel, select Net, then WLAN And Setup WizardThe device will begin scanning the airwaves. After a few seconds, a list of available networks will appear on the display. SSID.
Using the arrow keys, find your network name. Please note that network names are case sensitive. Once selected, click OKIf the network is hidden, select the option Other and enter the name manually using the on-screen numeric keypad or navigation buttons.
The next step is entering your password. The on-screen keyboard allows you to enter letters and numbers. Be careful when typing, as it can be difficult to correct errors on the small screens of the MFP. After entering the password, select ConnectThe printer will attempt to obtain an IP address from the router's DHCP server.
☑️ Verify your password before entering it
Using a USB cable for initial setup
This method is often the most reliable, especially if the drivers haven't been installed yet. You'll need a USB Type AB (printer) cable. Connect one end to Brother DCP-1623WR, and the other to the computer. Turn on the device and wait for the self-test procedure to complete.
Run the installation disk or download the full driver package. Full Driver & Software Package From the manufacturer's official website. During installation, select the "Wireless" connection type. The program will automatically offer to transfer network settings from your computer to the printer via a USB cable.
After the data transfer is successful, the program will notify you that the cable can be disconnected. The printer will save the settings and enter WiFi connection standby mode. This method is advantageous because it eliminates manual input errors and immediately installs the necessary drivers on your PC.
⚠️ Caution: Do not connect the USB cable until prompted by the installer. Connecting it too early may result in the operating system incorrectly detecting the device.
Setting up WiFi Direct for printing from mobile devices
Function WiFi Direct Allows you to connect smartphones and tablets directly to the printer without a router. This is convenient when you need to quickly print a document from your phone while visiting someone or in an office with complex network security. To activate, go to Menu → Net → WLAN → WiFi Direct.
Turn on the mode and select OnThe network name will appear on the screen (for example, DIRECT-xxxx-BRO) and a password. Connect to this network from your mobile device using the standard Android or iOS settings. Once connected, you can print through the app. Brother iPrint&Scan.
Direct mode can operate simultaneously while connected to the main network, but data transfer speeds may be lower. If you don't use phone printing, it's best to disable this feature for increased security and to reduce the load on the network module.
What should I do if my phone doesn't see the printer in Direct mode?
Make sure your phone's mobile data (3G/4G) is disabled when connecting, as some devices ignore WiFi without internet access. Also, check that the maximum number of connected clients (usually up to 5 devices) hasn't been exceeded.
Diagnostics and solution
Sometimes the connection is successful, but printing does not work. Print a network configuration report by pressing a combination of buttons or through the menu (Report → Net). In the report, pay attention to the line Link Status — it should say "Connected." Also check the IP address: if it starts with 169.254.xx, the device hasn't received an address from the router.
A common problem is incompatibility of encryption protocols. Brother DCP-1623WR may not support the latest WPA3 security standards. If other methods don't work, try temporarily changing your router's security settings to WPA2-PSK (AES). This often resolves the network "invisibility" issue.
The table below lists the main error codes and their meanings that may appear on the screen or in a report:
| Code / Status | Description of the problem | Recommended action |
|---|---|---|
| TS-02 | SSID not found | Check the network name, whether the router is turned on, and the distance to the device. |
| TS-04 | Incorrect password | Reset network settings and re-enter the security key. |
| TS-07 | Error connecting to access point | Check your router's MAC filtering settings. |
| TS-10 | Failed to obtain IP (DHCP) | Reboot your router or check the limit of connected devices |
Security and Stability Recommendations
After successful setup, it is recommended to record the device's IP address. On a home network, the address may change when the router reboots, which will result in loss of connection to the computer. Go to the router's web interface and find the section DHCP Reservation or Static LeaseBind the printer's MAC address to a specific IP.
Update your device's firmware regularly. The manufacturer periodically releases updates that improve compatibility with new routers and patch vulnerabilities. You can check the version in the menu. Device Info → Firmware version.
The placement of the MFP also plays a role. Avoid placing it near microwave ovens, powerful heat sources, or metal structures that can block the signal. The optimal distance from the router is no more than 10-15 meters within direct line of sight.
How do I reset my network settings to factory defaults?
For a full reset, click Menu, select All settings (or Initial Setup), find the item Reset and select Network resetConfirm the action. The device will reboot, and all WiFi passwords will be deleted.
Is it possible to connect a printer to a hidden network?
Yes, this is possible. When selecting a network in the setup wizard, select the option Other or Enter manuallyYou'll need to know the exact network name (SSID) and encryption type. Hidden networks may connect more slowly because the device must actively scan the air.
Why does my printer disconnect from WiFi after being idle?
This may be related to the power saving settings of your router or the printer itself. Try disabling the "Deep Sleep" feature in the device menu or updating the firmware. Also, check if your router has a DHCP lease time limit.