It is hard to imagine a modern office or home office without a convenient wireless printer, and the model Xerox Phaser 6020 This printer is deservedly popular due to its compact size and print quality. However, initial network connection setup often raises questions for users, especially given the device's unique driver architecture. Unlike many modern gadgets, this printer does not have a full-fledged LCD screen for password entry, requiring specialized configuration methods.
Integration process printer to the local network This requires careful attention and adherence to the steps outlined in the official documentation. Any deviation from the algorithm may result in the computer simply not seeing the device in the list of available devices for printing. In this article, we'll cover every step in detail, from preparing the equipment to the intricacies of setting up a static IP address, so you can enjoy wireless printing without the hassle.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
Before performing any software manipulation, ensure the device is physically ready for operation. Make sure the cartridges are installed, the protective tape is removed, and the printer is plugged in. It's important to understand that Xerox 6020 — This is a model that requires a USB cable connection for the initial Wi-Fi setup, even if you plan to print over the air eventually.
Check whether a USB Type AB cable (a standard printer cable) is included or purchased separately, as configuring the wireless module is impossible without it. You will also need a computer or laptop with access to the Wi-Fi network to which you plan to connect the printer. Make sure your router is stable and assigning addresses via DHCP, or find a free IP address in advance for manual configuration.
Download the latest drivers and setup utility from the manufacturer's official website, as the versions on the disk may be out of date. Installing the latest software package ensures compatibility with the latest Windows and macOS operating system updates.
⚠️ Please note: The Xerox 6020 model only supports WPA2-Personal (AES) security standards. If your router is configured for legacy WEP or specific corporate protocols like WPA-Enterprise, you may not be able to connect without changing your router's security settings.
Installing drivers and configuration utilities
Run the downloaded installation file and follow the installation wizard's instructions. At a certain point, the system will prompt you to select a connection type: it's crucial to select "Wireless Connection," even if the cable isn't connected yet. The program will automatically detect the lack of a connection and prompt you to proceed to the network setup step.
During the installation process, a special component will be installed - Wireless Setup Wizard, which is the key tool for this model. This utility transfers router settings (SSID and password) directly to the printer's memory. Without this component running, the printer will remain in standby mode and will not be able to find your network.
If the automatic device search fails, make sure Windows Firewall or antivirus software isn't blocking the installer. Sometimes you need to temporarily disable network protection to allow the program to scan ports and find the connected USB device.
What should I do if the installation is interrupted?
If the driver installation freezes while searching for a device, try disconnecting the USB cable, restarting the installer, and reconnecting the cable only when prompted. Restarting the Windows print spooler service may also help.
Step-by-step setup via USB cable
Connect the printer to your computer using a USB cable and wait for the operating system to recognize the new device. Launch the wireless network setup utility you installed earlier. A list of available wireless networks within range of the printer will appear on the screen.
Select your network name (SSID) from the list. If your network isn't listed, check to see if the SSID is hidden in your router settings or try moving the printer closer to the access point. Enter the Wi-Fi network password in the appropriate field, making sure to be careful with the letters, as the system is case-sensitive.
After entering the information, click "Next" or "Apply." The configuration transfer process will begin. At this point, the Wi-Fi indicator on the printer's control panel (if equipped) or the Ready indicator will begin flashing, indicating a connection attempt.
☑️ Connection checklist
Alternative method: WPS connection
If your router supports the technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup), the connection process can be significantly simplified by avoiding manual password entry. This method is ideal if you don't want to mess with drivers during network setup. Locate the WPS button on the router; it may be physical or software-based in the router interface.
Press and hold the WPS button on the router for a few seconds until the WPS indicator starts blinking. Then, within two minutes, launch the setup utility on your computer and select the WPS connection method. The printer will automatically receive all the necessary network login credentials.
This method only works if there's one active device within range with WPS enabled. If you have a complex network infrastructure with multiple access points, this method may be less stable than manual configuration.
Setting up a static IP address
After successfully connecting the printer to Wi-Fi, it is highly recommended to configure a static IP address. By default, the router assigns a dynamic IP address, and the next time the device reboots, it may receive a new IP address. This will cause the computer to lose connection with the printer, and the drivers will stop responding to print requests.
To change the address, open the printer's web interface (CentreWare Internet-Link) by entering its current IP address in the browser. Go to the network properties (Properties → Network) and find the TCP/IP settings. Here, you need to disable DHCP and manually enter the address, subnet mask, and gateway.
Select an address within your local network range, but outside the pool of addresses automatically assigned by the router to avoid conflicts. For example, if your router assigns addresses from 192.168.1.100 to 192.168.1.200, assign the printer address 192.168.1.50.
| Parameter | Example of meaning | Description |
|---|---|---|
| IP Address | 192.168.1.50 | The printer's unique address on the network |
| Subnet Mask | 255.255.255.0 | Subnet mask (usually default) |
| Gateway | 192.168.1.1 | Your router's address |
| DNS Server | 8.8.8.8 | DNS server address (you can specify a router) |
⚠️ Note: After changing the IP address to a static one, you will need to re-add the printer in the operating system, specifying the new port with the correct address, otherwise printing will not work.
Adding a printer in Windows and macOS
Now that the device is online, you need to add it to the operating system. In Windows, go to "Devices and Printers" in the Control Panel and select "Add a printer." The system will begin searching, but to be on the safe side, it's best to select "The printer I want isn't listed" and specify its TCP/IP address.
Enter the static IP address you set earlier. Windows will attempt to connect to the device and will likely automatically select a driver. If the system prompts you to select a driver from a list, select the model. Xerox Phaser 6020 or use the previously downloaded INF file.
For macOS users, the process is similar: open System Preferences → Printers & Scanners, click the plus sign, and go to the IP tab. Select the protocol. AirPrint or HP Jetdirect (Socket), enter the address, and confirm the addition. macOS often automatically finds Xerox printers via Bonjour if they are on the same subnet.
Common problems and their solutions
One common issue is when the Wi-Fi indicator is on, but the printer doesn't print. This is often due to the computer and printer being on different subnets or frequencies (2.4 GHz vs. 5 GHz). Make sure both devices are connected to the same logical network.
Another difficulty is the printer's sleep mode. Xerox 6020 It may go into deep sleep and not immediately respond to network requests. Try refreshing the status page in your browser or sending a test page to "wake up" the communication module.
If all else fails, reset the printer's network settings to factory defaults. This is usually done with a combination of buttons on the control panel (press and hold the Wi-Fi and Cancel buttons simultaneously for a few seconds until the lights flash).
⚠️ Note: Firmware interfaces may vary slightly depending on the year of manufacture of the device. If the menu items described here do not match, please refer to the user manual for your specific revision.
Questions and Answers (FAQ)
Is it possible to connect the Xerox 6020 to Wi-Fi without a computer?
Unfortunately, the 6020 model does not have a display for entering a password, so initial setup is only possible via a computer with the utility installed or using the WPS method, if supported by the router.
My printer stopped printing after changing my router. What should I do?
You'll need to re-configure your Wi-Fi settings, as your old router had different network settings. Connect the printer to your PC via USB and run the wireless setup utility again, entering the new router's details.
Does this model support printing from mobile phones?
Yes, when connected to Wi-Fi, the printer supports printing via AirPrint (for iOS) and Mopria (for Android), as well as the Xerox Print Service Plugin app.
What is the maximum Wi-Fi range of this printer?
The range depends on the power of your router and obstacles in the room, but the standard built-in Wi-Fi module reliably maintains a connection at a distance of up to 30 meters in open space.