Multifunctional device Panasonic KX-MB2170 While the 802.11 has proven itself to be a reliable and productive office device, many users encounter difficulties when trying to set up wireless printing. This is because this model, unlike some modern competitors, does not have a built-in 802.11 wireless module. This often comes as an unpleasant surprise to those accustomed to complete freedom from cables and expecting network settings directly in the device's menu.
However, there are proven and effective ways to circumvent this technical limitation, turning your printer into a fully-fledged network node. You won't have to deal with cables running across your office or constantly connecting your laptop directly via USB. Using your router or special adapters, you can easily set up a shared access point for all computers on your local network.
In this article, we'll take a detailed look at several connection methods, assess their pros and cons, and walk you through installing drivers and configuring ports in the operating system. You'll learn how to use them correctly. USB-Wi-Fi adapters or customize public access via a router to make printing as convenient as possible.
Why doesn't the Panasonic KX-MB2170 detect a Wi-Fi network?
The first thing a user might notice is the lack of a "Wireless" or "Wi-Fi" option in the device's menu. This isn't a defect or a software error, but a design feature of the model. KX-MB2170Panasonic engineers designed this series for wired connection or operation as a local USB device, which reduces the overall cost of the product but limits functionality in modern conditions.
The lack of a built-in radio module means the printer can't independently scan the airwaves and connect to an access point. Any attempts to find hidden settings in the service menu or to reflash the device in hopes of activating the "sleeping" module are doomed to failure. Hardware simply does not contain the necessary components to receive a radio signal.
However, this is not a dead end. Modern routers (routers) have the functionality to connect peripheral devices via a USB port and broadcast them to the network. There are also external print servers, which act as an intermediary between the printer cable and your home's wireless network.
⚠️ Warning: Do not attempt to disassemble the device or connect random USB dongles to it in the hopes that they will work as Wi-Fi adapters. The drivers are inside the firmware. Panasonic KX-MB2170 Only support specific flash drive models for scanning, not network cards.
Method 1: Connecting via the router's USB port
The most elegant and stable solution is to use the USB port on your router. Most modern models Asus, Keenetic, TP-Link And Mikrotik Support the "Print Server" function. In this case, the router acts as a dispatcher, accepting print jobs from computers via Wi-Fi and transmitting them to the MFP via a USB cable.
To implement this method, you need to physically connect Panasonic KX-MB2170 Connect a high-quality USB Type AB cable (standard printer cable) to the router. It's important that the cable isn't too long, preferably under 2 meters, to avoid signal loss and power issues.
Once physically connected, you'll need to log into your router's web interface. This is usually done by entering the IP address (often 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1) into the browser's address bar. In the settings menu, find the section for USB applications or printers and enable printing support.
- 🔌 Connect the MFP to the router via USB cable and turn on the power.
- 🌐 Go to your router settings and make sure the printer appears in the list of USB devices.
- 💻 On your computer, add a new printer by selecting the "Add by TCP/IP address" option or via network discovery.
- ⚙️ Install drivers Panasonic KX-MB2170, if they are not already installed on the system.
The main advantage of this method is its independence from a computer. The printer will be accessible via Wi-Fi to all devices on the network, even if the main computer is turned off. However, it's worth keeping in mind that some older router models may not have sufficient processor power to quickly process large documents or scan over the network.
⚠️ Note: The Scan to PC feature via a USB router often doesn't work or requires complex additional configuration. This method is primarily intended for printing documents.
Method 2: Using a Wi-Fi adapter (Print server)
If your router doesn't have a USB port or doesn't support the Print Server feature, special external devices—Wi-Fi printer adapters—will come to the rescue. These are small boxes with a USB port on one end and an antenna on the other. They create a bridge between the wired interface and the printer. Panasonic KX-MB2170 and your wireless network.
When choosing an adapter, it's crucial to pay attention to compatibility with laser MFPs. Cheap models may not handle the data flow or support the PCL commands your device uses. It's recommended to choose devices from reputable brands, such as TP-Link, D-Link or specialized print servers.
Setting up such a device is usually done through the adapter's web interface. You connect to its temporary Wi-Fi network, enter your home router's login and password, and the adapter "forwards" the printer to the shared network. To the computer, it will appear as a regular network printer.
Adapter compatibility
Not all USB Wi-Fi adapters are compatible with printers. Standard PC adapters (such as the TP-Link TL-WN722N) won't work in client mode with a printer. You need a Print Server that supports the RAW or LPR protocols.
This method allows complete freedom of placement for the MFP. The device can be tucked away in a corner or on a shelf with only an electrical outlet, yet still be accessible to all family members or office staff without the hassle of cables.
Method 3: Sharing via PC
The most cost-effective, but less convenient option is to use the "Sharing" feature in the Windows operating system. In this case, the computer to which the device is connected Panasonic KX-MB2170 Via USB, it becomes a print server. Other devices send print jobs to this computer, which in turn forwards them to the printer.
To set up this method, connect the MFP to your computer via USB and make sure it prints a test page correctly. Then, go to "Control Panel" -> "Devices and Printers." Find your Panasonic KX-MB2170, right-click and select "Printer properties".
In the window that opens, go to the tab Access and check the box next to "Share this printer." Give it a descriptive network name, for example, Panasonic_OfficeThis computer must now be turned on for others to print.
The main drawback is the dependence on the host computer. If the computer to which the cable is connected is turned off, in sleep mode, or rebooting, printing from other devices will be impossible. Furthermore, printing from other computers may require entering the host computer's user credentials.
Installing drivers and configuring ports
Regardless of the method you choose (other than simple USB), you'll likely need to manually create a print port or specify the path to the device. Standard automatic installation often only searches for local USB ports and may not detect the printer on the network.
First, download the latest drivers from the official Panasonic website. Please note that network printing may require the full driver version, not the basic package. During installation, select the "Network" or "LAN" connection type if the driver prompts you to do so.
If the automatic search doesn't yield any results, use the Add Printer Wizard in Windows. Select "The printer I want isn't listed," then "Add a printer using its TCP/IP address." In the address field, enter the IP address of your router (if you're using the router's USB port) or the IP address of the print server.
☑️ Port Configuration Checklist
An important point is the protocol setting. For most simple printing tasks, the protocol RAW with port 9100In some cases, especially when using older routers, a protocol may be required. LPRIf printing doesn't work, try changing the protocol type in the port properties.
Connection Method Comparison Table
To make it easier for you to decide on the optimal integration method Panasonic KX-MB2170 into a wireless network, we have prepared a comparative table of the main characteristics of each method.
| Characteristic | USB Router | Wi-Fi Adapter | Shared Access (PC) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stability | High | Medium/High | Depends on the PC |
| PC independence | Yes | Yes | No (requires a powered-on PC) |
| Scan Function | Often unavailable | Rarely available | Available (via software) |
| Cost of implementation | 0 rubles (if there is a USB port) | 1000-3000 rubles | 0 rub. |
As the table shows, the router's USB port method offers the best balance of price and quality, provided your router supports this feature. Purchasing a separate print server is justified if your router is underpowered or located far from the printer.
Common problems and their solutions
During setup, users often encounter a situation where the computer sees the printer, but the print queue status constantly changes to "Error" or "Disabled." Most often, the problem lies in the incorrect port selection or is blocked by antivirus software.
Check your Windows Firewall settings. It may be blocking incoming connections to the print service, especially if you're using the shared access method. Make sure the port is added to the exceptions. 9100 or a print server emulator program.
Another common issue is a changing IP address. If your router assigns addresses dynamically (DHCP), then after a reboot, the printer address (or router port) may change, causing the connection to be lost. The solution is to configure a static IP address for the device in the router using its MAC address.
⚠️ Note: Router interfaces and driver versions are subject to update. If you don't find the menu items described, please refer to your specific router's documentation or search for the model online, as the location of the settings may vary.
It's also worth remembering about drivers. For Panasonic KX-MB2170 There are PCL and UFR II drivers. If one driver type is unstable over the network, try installing an alternative. UFR II drivers are often faster when transferring large graphic files.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to connect the Panasonic KX-MB2170 to Wi-Fi directly without a router?
No, it's impossible. In the model KX-MB2170 There's no physical Wi-Fi Direct module or built-in wireless card. It always requires an intermediary device (router, adapter, or computer) to connect to the wireless network.
Will the scanner work when connected via a router's USB?
In most cases, no. The protocols used by routers to forward USB printers typically only support printing (RAW/LPR protocols). Network scanner operation requires more complex TWAIN drivers, which simple routers don't support.
What USB cable do I need to connect to the router?
You'll need a standard USB Type-A to Type-B cable (the same one you use to connect a printer to a computer). It's recommended to use a cable with ferrite beads (thickened ends) to protect against interference, no longer than 2 meters.
Does the KX-MB2170 support printing from mobile phones?
By itself, no. But if you connect it to a router (using methods 1 or 2), you'll be able to print from your phone using AirPrint (for iOS) or Mopria (for Android), provided your router supports forwarding these protocols or you use special intermediary software.