How to Connect Brother Printer to Computer

Connecting a Brother printer to a computer +1-888-966-6097 involves several steps, including choosing the right connection method, setting up drivers, and configuring settings. This guide will walk you through connecting a Brother printer to both Windows and macOS computers, whether by USB, Wi-Fi, or Ethernet.

1. Decide on Connection Method

• USB Connection: This is the simplest method if the printer is close to your computer. It requires a USB cable and doesn’t rely on Wi-Fi.
• Wi-Fi Connection: Ideal for wireless printing, allowing you to place the printer anywhere within range of your Wi-Fi network. It requires both your computer and printer to be connected to the same network.
• Ethernet Connection: Suitable for office environments where multiple computers share one printer via a wired network.

2. Gather Information and Requirements

• Driver and Software Installation: Download the latest drivers from the Brother Support Website.
• Network Information (for Wi-Fi and Ethernet): Have your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password handy.
• Printer Model: Ensure that you know your specific printer model to download the correct drivers and follow model-specific instructions.

3. Connecting via USB Cable

Step-by-Step USB Setup:

1. Connect the USB Cable: Attach one end of the USB cable to your Brother printer and the other to your computer.
2. Install Drivers:
   • Windows: Once connected, Windows may automatically detect the printer and install drivers. If not, visit the Brother Support Website, download drivers, and follow the on-screen instructions.
   • macOS: Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners > + to add the printer. If the system doesn’t find it, download and install drivers from the Brother website.
3. Test Print: Once installed, try a test print to confirm the printer is working correctly.

4. Connecting via Wi-Fi Network

• Note: Ensure both your computer and Brother printer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

Wi-Fi Setup Using Printer’s Control Panel:

1. Access Wi-Fi Settings:
   • On the printer, go to Settings > Network > WLAN > Setup Wizard.
2. Select Wi-Fi Network:
   • Choose your Wi-Fi network (SSID) from the list. Enter the Wi-Fi password carefully.
3. Connect: After entering the password, the printer will connect to the network. You’ll see a confirmation message once it’s connected.
4. Install Drivers:
   • Download and install drivers on your computer. During installation, choose Wireless Network as the connection type.
5. Add Printer on Computer:
   • Windows: Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners > Add a printer.
   • macOS: Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners > + to add your printer.
6. Test Wireless Printing: Once added, print a test page to confirm the wireless connection.

Wi-Fi Setup Using WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup):

• Check WPS Compatibility: Confirm that both your router and printer support WPS.

1. Activate WPS on Router:
   • Press the WPS button on your router for 3-5 seconds.
2. Activate WPS on Printer:
   • Go to Menu > Network > WLAN > WPS/AOSS.
3. Automatic Connection: The printer should connect automatically without needing a password.

5. Connecting via Ethernet (Wired Network)

Step-by-Step Ethernet Setup:

1. Connect Ethernet Cable: Plug one end of the Ethernet cable into the printer and the other into a router or network switch.
2. Assign IP Address:
   • The printer will usually be assigned an IP address automatically. You can print a Network Configuration Report from the printer’s settings to confirm the IP address.
3. Install Drivers:
   • Download and install the driver software, selecting Ethernet Network as the connection type.
4. Add Printer on Computer:
   • Windows: Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners > Add a printer.
   • macOS: Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners > + and select IP to manually enter the IP address.
5. Test Printing: Print a test page to confirm that the Ethernet connection is functioning correctly.

6. Installing Brother Printer Drivers

• Download from Brother Support Website: Go to the Brother Support page and enter your printer model.
• Choose Connection Type:
  • Select USB, Wireless, or Wired Network depending on how you are connecting.
• Complete Installation: Follow on-screen prompts to complete installation. The installer will search for your printer and finalize the setup.

7. Adding the Printer on Windows and macOS

Adding Printer on Windows:

1. Open Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners.
2. Click Add a Printer or Scanner.
3. Select your Brother printer from the list and click Add Device.

Adding Printer on macOS:

1. Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.
2. Click the + button to add a new printer.
3. Your Brother printer should appear in the list. Select it and click Add.

8. Troubleshooting Connection Issues

USB Connection Issues:

• Check Cable: Ensure the USB cable is securely connected.
• Driver Reinstallation: Reinstall the drivers if the printer isn’t recognized.

Wi-Fi Connection Issues:

• Network Range: Ensure the printer is within Wi-Fi range.
• Password Verification: Confirm you’ve entered the correct Wi-Fi password.
• Network Reset: On the printer, go to Settings > Network > Network Reset if you need to restart the connection process.

Ethernet Connection Issues:

• IP Address Conflict: Restart the router or assign a static IP if the printer is not detected.
• Cable Check: Verify the Ethernet cable is securely connected to both the router and the printer.

9. Contacting Brother Support if Needed

• If you’re still experiencing issues, contact Brother Support for assistance. Have your printer model, serial number, and details of the issue on hand to expedite support.

Conclusion

Connecting a Brother printer to your computer is straightforward with the right setup process. By following these steps for USB, Wi-Fi, or Ethernet connections, and ensuring the latest drivers are installed, you can easily establish a stable connection and enjoy efficient printing. Whether you’re using Windows or macOS, Brother provides options to suit your needs, making connectivity seamless.