Switching to wireless printing significantly simplifies working with office equipment, allowing you to send documents from any device within the network. Xerox B205 — a compact, multifunctional device that supports Wi-Fi Direct and standard router connections. However, initial setup often raises questions for users, especially if they've previously only used a USB cable.
In this article, we'll cover all the nuances of network configuration, from choosing a connection method to troubleshooting common driver errors. You'll learn how to enter a password correctly, set up a static IP address, and ensure a stable connection between your computer and the MFP. Wireless connection requires precision in data entry, as even one extra letter in the security key will interrupt the pairing process.
Before setting up, make sure your device is in a strong signal range. If the router is located in an adjacent room behind a load-bearing wall, printing speeds may decrease and the connection may be interrupted. For stable operation MFP Xerox B205 The 2.4 GHz band is best suited for providing better coverage, although the model also supports faster but shorter-range 5 GHz networks.
Preparing equipment and checking network parameters
The first step is to physically prepare the device. Make sure the MFP is plugged in and in Ready mode. There should be no error lights or flashing low toner warnings on the control panel. If the device is freshly unpacked, it may require an initial calibration, which should not be interrupted.
You need to know the exact name of your wireless network (SSID) and its password. Passwords are case-sensitive, so Latin The password must be entered strictly according to the specified case. Users often confuse zero and the letter "O," or one and the letter "I," which leads to endless connection attempts.
⚠️ Note: If your router is distributing two networks with the same name (dual-band mode), try temporarily separating them in the router settings or connecting specifically to the 2.4 GHz network, as older printer communication protocols may not work correctly with combined channels.
It's also worth checking if MAC address filtering is enabled on your router. If it is, you'll need to find the printer's MAC address on the label on the back of the device and add it to the whitelist of allowed clients in the router interface. Without this step, the router will simply ignore requests. Xerox B205, even if the password is entered correctly.
Resetting the printer's network settings to factory defaults
If the printer was previously connected to a different network or the settings were changed unsuccessfully, we recommend performing a reset. This will clear saved profiles and return the network module to its original state. Xerox B205 The reset procedure often solves problems with network search "freezing".
Press the "Menu" button on the control panel and use the navigation arrows to navigate to the "Settings" section. Find "Administration" or "Network Setup." Depending on your firmware version, the path may differ slightly, but the logic remains the same: look for the section responsible for communications.
Select the "Network Reset" or "Restore Network Settings" option. The device will warn you that all current settings will be deleted. Confirm the action. After the Wi-Fi module resets, the wireless indicator may start blinking, indicating that it is ready for a new configuration.
☑️ Pre-reset check
After a reset, the printer may automatically switch to access point mode (Wi-Fi Direct). This is normal behavior. In this mode, the device creates its own network to which you can connect directly for file transfers. However, for full functionality via a router, it's best to disable or reconfigure this mode.
Setting up a connection via WPS (the fastest method)
The easiest way to connect Xerox B205 A simple way to connect to your home network is to use WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method eliminates the need to manually enter a complex password. Make sure your router supports this feature—most modern models have a corresponding button on the router body or in the web interface.
Press the WPS button on the router and hold it for 2-3 seconds until the security indicator starts flashing. Then, within 2 minutes, go to the printer. On the MFP panel, look for the button with the wireless network icon or go to the menu and select "WPS Push Button."
The device will begin searching for a signal. If the connection is successful, the Wi-Fi indicator on the printer will turn solid. Automatic configuration It usually takes no more than 30 seconds. If the indicator continues to flash or turns red, pairing was unsuccessful and you'll need to repeat the process or select the manual method.
⚠️ Note: The WPS protocol is considered less secure than manual password entry, as it is theoretically possible to brute-force the PIN. For office networks with high security requirements, manual configuration or a cable connection is recommended.
In some cases, the router may require connection confirmation on your computer or smartphone screen. Monitor your router's security system for notifications. If WPS isn't working, it may be disabled in the router's default settings.
Manual Wi-Fi setup via the control panel
If the automatic method doesn't work, you'll need to configure the network manually. This is a reliable method that guarantees a connection to the correct SSID. Go to the printer menu, select "Network Settings," then "Wireless." Select "Setup Wizard."
The printer will begin scanning the air. Select your network name from the list that appears. If the network is hidden (the SSID is not broadcast), select the "Enter SSID" option and enter the name manually, taking care to ensure capitalization. Screen Xerox B205 monochrome, so navigation by letters is done using arrows.
After selecting a network, the device will ask for a security key (Password/Key). Use the up/down arrow keys to change characters and the left/right arrow keys to navigate the input field. Be careful: special characters may be found in additional keyboard menus on the screen.
Input example:1. Select the 'A' character -> Click OK
2. Go to numbers -> Select '1' -> Press OK
3. Go to Special Characters -> Select '#' -> Press OK
After entering the password, click "OK" or "Apply." The printer will attempt to obtain an IP address from the router's DHCP server. If successful, the screen will display "Connected" or "Ready," and a network configuration report will be printed, showing the assigned IP address.
Using Wi-Fi Direct to print from mobile devices
Function Wi-Fi Direct Allows you to connect smartphones and tablets directly to the printer, without a router. This is ideal for quickly printing photos or documents from cafes or visiting guests without access to the main network. Enable this feature in the printer menu: "Settings" → "Network" → "Wi-Fi Direct" → "On."
The MFP screen will display the network name (e.g., DIRECT-XY-Xerox-B205) and the connection password. On your mobile device, open the Wi-Fi settings, find this network, and enter the password. Once connected, you can use the app. Xerox Print Service Plugin or standard Android/iOS printing tools.
It's important to understand the difference: when connecting via Wi-Fi Direct, your mobile device may temporarily lose internet access as it switches to a direct connection with the printer. Some modern smartphones can operate with two Wi-Fi channels simultaneously, but this depends on the phone model.
| Parameter | Regular Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi Direct |
|---|---|---|
| A router is required | Yes | No |
| Internet access | Eat | Often absent |
| Number of users | Many (via server) | Limited (usually up to 5) |
| Print speed | High | Average |
For corporate environments, using Wi-Fi Direct may be undesirable due to security risks, as the device becomes accessible to anyone with knowledge of the default password. It is recommended to change the Direct password in the printer settings.
How to change Wi-Fi Direct password?
Go to Settings → Network → Wi-Fi Direct → Settings → Change Password. Enter a new code of 8 or more characters. Remember it, as you can only reset it by resetting the network.
Installing drivers and a static IP address
After successfully connecting to the network, you need to install drivers on your computer. Download the full package of drivers and software for Xerox B205 From the manufacturer's official website. During installation, select the "Network" connection type. The installer will automatically find the printer on the local network by IP address.
However, the router's DHCP server may change the printer's IP address over time, resulting in loss of connection with the computer. To avoid this, it is recommended to assign static IPThis can be done through the printer's web interface (CenterWare) or by reserving an address in the router using the MAC address.
To configure the printer via the web interface, enter the printer's current IP address in your browser. Go to Properties → Connectivity → Network. Uncheck "Obtain IP address automatically" (DHCP) and enter the desired address (e.g., 192.168.1.200), subnet mask, and gateway.
⚠️ Attention: When assigning a static IP, make sure that the selected address is in the same subnet as your router, but is not in the range of addresses that the router distributes automatically (DHCP pool), otherwise an IP address conflict will occur.
After changing network settings, the printer may require a reboot. You should also reconnect your computer to the device by re-adding the port with the new static address in the printer properties in Windows.
Solving common connection problems
Users often encounter a situation where a printer is visible on the network but doesn't print. First, check the device's status in the Windows print queue. If it shows "Driver Error" or "Offline," try deleting the device and adding it again using its IP address instead of automatic discovery.
Another common issue is security protocol incompatibility. Your router may use WPA3 encryption, which older printer models (or their current firmware) don't support. In this case, temporarily enable mixed WPA2/WPA3 mode in your router settings or assign a guest network with WPA2-AES.
If your printer stops responding after a Windows update, the problem may be your firewall. Make sure the printing ports (usually 9100) aren't blocked. Resetting the TCP/IP stack on your computer with the command netsh int ip reset in the command line as administrator.
Commands for network diagnostics:ping 192.168.1.X (connection check)
ipconfig /flushdns (clear DNS cache)
netstat -an (view open ports)
If you experience persistent connection interruptions, check to see if a microwave oven or other powerful radio source is interfering with the 2.4 GHz band. Moving your router or printer a meter away can often make a significant difference.
Why doesn't my Xerox B205 printer see my Wi-Fi network?
Most likely, your router is operating in 5 GHz-only mode or is using channels higher than 11, which aren't supported by the printer's network module in some regions. Switch your router to mixed mode (b/g/n) and select channels 1-11.
How can I find out the IP address of my printer if I can't print a report?
Use the Xerox Command Center utility or a third-party network scanner (such as Advanced IP Scanner). The IP address is also often displayed in the status bar on the MFP screen by pressing "Menu" → "Information."
Is it possible to connect Xerox B205 to a hidden network (Hidden SSID)?
Yes, this is possible. When selecting a network in the setup wizard, select the "Enter SSID" option and manually type the exact name of the hidden network, then enter the password.
What should I do if I forgot my web interface administrator password?
By default, the login and password are often "admin" or "1111." If these have been changed and lost, the only solution is a full device reset (NVRAM reset), which will return all settings, including network settings, to factory defaults.
Does this model support AirPrint for iPhone?
Yes, Xerox B205 Supports AirPrint technology. To use, make sure your iPhone and printer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. No separate driver setup is required for iOS.