How to Change Brother Printer Wifi? Printer Network Setup

Introduction

If you have moved to a new home, upgraded your router, changed your internet provider, or simply renamed your wireless network, you may need to learn How to Change Brother Printer Wifi? so your printer can reconnect and continue printing from your computer, phone, or tablet. Brother printers are designed to work across many different network environments, but the exact steps depend on your model, the control panel design, and whether you prefer using buttons on the printer, a mobile app, or a browser-based setup page.

This guide explains the most common and reliable ways to update the Wi-Fi settings on a Brother printer. It covers preparation, multiple setup methods, computer reconnection, troubleshooting, and best practices. By the end, you should have a clear path for reconnecting your printer without unnecessary guesswork.

Table of Contents

• Before You Start
• Identify Your Brother Printer Model
• Methods to Change Brother Printer Wi-Fi
• Method 1: Use the Printer Control Panel
• Method 2: Use WPS Push Button Setup
• Method 3: Use Brother iPrint&Scan or Mobile Setup
• Method 4: Use Web Based Management
• Method 5: Use USB or Temporary Wired Setup
• Updating Computer and Device Connections
• Troubleshooting Common Wi-Fi Problems
• Tips and Best Practices
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Before You Start

Before you begin, gather the information your printer will need. Most Wi-Fi setup failures happen because the network name or password is entered incorrectly, or because the printer is too far from the router. A few minutes of preparation can save a lot of frustration.

What You Need

• The exact name of your wireless network, also called the SSID.
• The current Wi-Fi password or network key.
• Your Brother printer powered on and in a ready state.
• Access to the printer control panel, or a computer or mobile device on the same network.
• The printer manual or model number if you need model-specific instructions.

Check Your Network First

Make sure your phone or computer can connect to the new Wi-Fi network successfully. If the network itself is unstable, the printer will also struggle. Place the printer within a reasonable distance of the router during setup. Walls, metal cabinets, microwaves, and large appliances can weaken wireless signals. If possible, perform the initial setup in the same room as the router, then move the printer to its normal location afterward.

Also confirm whether your network uses a 2.4 GHz band, 5 GHz band, or both. Many Brother printers connect most reliably to 2.4 GHz networks. Some newer models support 5 GHz, but if setup fails, trying the 2.4 GHz network is often a useful troubleshooting step.

Identify Your Brother Printer Model

Brother printers include inkjet all-in-ones, laser printers, label printers, and compact devices. Each family may have slightly different menus. The model name is usually printed on the front of the printer, near the control panel, or on a label inside the front cover. Common examples include MFC, DCP, HL, and QL series devices.

If your printer has a touchscreen, setup is usually straightforward. If it has only a few buttons and a small LCD, you may need to use arrow keys to scroll through menus. If it has no display at all, you may need to use WPS, a mobile app, or a temporary USB connection. Knowing your model helps you follow the correct menu path and download the right software.

You can also visit Brother support and enter your model number to find the exact manual. This is especially helpful if your printer is older or has an unusual control panel layout.

Methods to Change Brother Printer Wi-Fi

There is no single universal process for every Brother printer. However, most users can choose from several dependable methods. The best method depends on your printer hardware and your comfort level with technology.

Method	Best For	Requirements	Difficulty
Control Panel Setup	Printers with a display and keypad	Network name and password	Easy to Moderate
WPS Push Button	Quick setup when router supports WPS	WPS-enabled router	Easy
Brother iPrint&Scan	Mobile users and app-based setup	Smartphone or tablet	Easy
Web Based Management	Advanced network settings	Browser and printer IP address	Moderate
USB or Wired Setup	Printers without a display	USB cable and computer	Moderate

If one method does not work, do not assume the printer is broken. Simply try another method. Brother printers often provide multiple setup paths because home and office networks vary widely.

Method 1: Use the Printer Control Panel

For many Brother printers, the control panel is the most direct way to change the Wi-Fi network. This method is useful when the printer already has a screen and you know the network password.

Step-by-Step Control Panel Setup

1. Turn on the Brother printer and wait until it reaches the ready screen.
2. Press the Menu button, or tap Settings on a touchscreen model.
3. Navigate to Network, then select WLAN or Wireless LAN.
4. Choose Setup Wizard, WLAN Setup Wizard, or a similarly named option.
5. Allow the printer to search for available wireless networks.
6. Select your new network name from the list.
7. Enter the Wi-Fi password carefully, paying attention to uppercase and lowercase letters.
8. Confirm the settings and wait for the printer to connect.
9. Print a network configuration page if the option is available.

On models with a small LCD, entering a long password can be slow. Use the arrow keys to move between characters and confirm each selection. Some models allow you to press a button to switch between uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols. If your password contains special characters, double-check that the selected character set supports them.

After a successful connection, the wireless icon on the printer display should show a connected status. You may also see an IP address on the network report. Write down that IP address because it can be useful later.

Method 2: Use WPS Push Button Setup

WPS, or Wi-Fi Protected Setup, can connect a printer to a router without typing the full password. This is one of the fastest options when both devices support it. However, WPS is not available on every router, and some networks disable it for security reasons.

1. Make sure the printer is turned on.
2. Press and hold the WPS button on the router, or enable WPS from the router settings if required.
3. On the Brother printer, open the network or wireless menu.
4. Select WPS, WPS with Push Button, or a similar option.
5. Follow the on-screen prompts to start the connection.
6. Wait for the printer and router to complete the handshake.

If the connection fails, try again within the WPS time window, which is often two minutes. Also make sure the printer is close enough to the router. If WPS still fails, switch to the control panel method or app-based setup. WPS can be convenient, but it is not always the most dependable option on every network.

Method 3: Use Brother iPrint&Scan or Mobile Setup

Brother offers mobile apps that can help with printing, scanning, and sometimes setup. Depending on your model and app version, you may be able to discover the printer and guide it through wireless configuration. This method is especially helpful if you prefer using a phone instead of navigating small printer menus.

1. Download the official Brother app recommended for your printer from your device’s app store.
2. Connect your phone or tablet to the new Wi-Fi network.
3. Open the app and look for a setup, device registration, or network configuration option.
4. Follow the prompts to select your printer and enter the network details.
5. Wait for confirmation that the printer has joined the network.

App interfaces change over time, so the exact wording may vary. If the app does not offer direct Wi-Fi setup for your model, use the printer control panel or a browser-based method instead. The app is still useful after setup because it can confirm whether the printer is visible on the network.

Method 4: Use Web Based Management

Web Based Management allows you to change network settings through a browser. This is a powerful method, especially if you know the printer’s IP address. It is also useful for adjusting advanced settings such as IP configuration, security protocols, and network services.

1. Connect the printer to the network temporarily, if necessary, using one of the other methods.
2. Print a network configuration report from the printer to find its IP address.
3. Open a web browser on a device connected to the same network.
4. Type the printer’s IP address into the address bar and press Enter.
5. Log in if prompted. Some models use a default password, which may be found on a label or in the manual.
6. Navigate to the network or wireless settings section.
7. Select the new wireless network and enter the password.
8. Save or apply the changes.
9. Wait for the printer to reconnect.

Be careful when changing IP settings. If your network uses DHCP, leave the printer set to obtain an IP address automatically unless you have a specific reason to assign a static address. Incorrect manual IP settings can make the printer unreachable.

Method 5: Use USB or Temporary Wired Setup

If your Brother printer has no display, or if wireless setup through the panel is not working, a USB or temporary wired connection can help. Some models allow you to install Brother software on a computer, connect the printer with a USB cable, and then configure wireless settings through the software.

1. Install the latest Brother printer driver or setup software on your computer.
2. Connect the printer to the computer using a USB cable.
3. Open the Brother setup utility or wireless setup tool.
4. Select the option to configure wireless network settings.
5. Choose your new network and enter the password.
6. Apply the settings and disconnect the USB cable.
7. Confirm that the printer connects wirelessly.

This method is especially useful for compact printers and label printers with limited controls. It also reduces the chance of typing errors because you can use a full keyboard. After setup, remove the USB cable and test wireless printing.

Updating Computer and Device Connections

Changing the printer’s Wi-Fi network is only part of the process. Your computers, phones, and tablets may still be looking for the printer at its old network address. After the printer connects to the new network, update each device that uses it.

Windows and macOS

• Remove the old printer entry if it no longer works.
• Add the printer again using the operating system’s printer discovery tool.
• Install or update Brother drivers if prompted.
• Print a test page to confirm communication.

Mobile Devices

• Ensure the mobile device is on the same new Wi-Fi network.
• Open the Brother app and refresh the device list.
• Re-add the printer if it does not appear automatically.
• Try printing a simple document or photo.

If your printer received a new IP address, old shortcuts or saved printer links may no longer work. Re-adding the printer is usually faster than trying to repair an outdated connection.

Troubleshooting Common Wi-Fi Problems

Even when you follow the correct steps, wireless setup can fail. The following issues are common and usually easy to fix.

Incorrect Password

Wi-Fi passwords are case-sensitive. Check for accidental spaces, confusing characters, and keyboard language settings. If possible, type the password into a notes app first to verify it, then copy it carefully into the printer interface.

Weak Signal

If the printer is far from the router, move it closer during setup. After a successful connection, you can move it back, but avoid placing it behind thick walls or inside cabinets. A weak signal can cause intermittent printing even if the initial setup succeeds.

Network Band Mismatch

If your router broadcasts separate 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks, try the 2.4 GHz network first. Many Brother printers are optimized for 2.4 GHz. If your router uses one combined network name, the printer may need to select the appropriate band automatically.

Router or Modem Changes

New routers may use different security settings. WPA2 and WPA3 are common. If the printer does not support the newest security mode, check whether your router offers a compatibility mode. Avoid disabling security entirely; instead, use a supported mode such as WPA2.

IP Address Conflicts

If the printer connects but cannot be found by computers, it may have an IP conflict. Restart the printer and router, then check the network configuration report again. In most home networks, DHCP will assign a fresh address automatically.

Outdated Firmware

Older firmware can cause compatibility issues with newer routers. Check Brother’s support site for firmware updates for your model. Follow the update instructions carefully and do not interrupt the process.

Tips and Best Practices

A few simple habits can make future network changes much easier. These tips are especially useful in homes or small offices where routers are replaced more often than printers.

• Keep your printer manual or save a digital copy for reference.
• Write down your Wi-Fi network name and password in a secure location.
• Place the printer where it receives a stable wireless signal.
• Use a consistent network name when possible to reduce reconfiguration work.
• Update printer firmware and computer drivers regularly.
• Print a network configuration page after every successful setup.
• Test printing from every device that needs access.
• Avoid placing the printer near devices that can interfere with wireless signals.

If you manage multiple printers, consider assigning static IP addresses through your router’s DHCP reservation feature. This keeps each printer’s address consistent without manually configuring the printer. It is often easier than setting a static IP directly on the device.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to reinstall the printer on my computer after changing Wi-Fi?

Sometimes yes. If the printer’s IP address changed, your computer may not find it automatically. Re-adding the printer or updating the port settings usually resolves the issue.

Why does my Brother printer not find my Wi-Fi network?

The printer may be too far from the router, the network may be hidden, or the printer may not support the frequency band. Try moving closer, broadcasting the SSID, or using the 2.4 GHz network.

Can I change the Wi-Fi without the printer password?

You do not need a printer password for most Wi-Fi setup methods, but you do need the Wi-Fi password. If Web Based Management requires a login, check the printer label or manual for the default credentials.

Is WPS safe to use?

WPS is convenient, but some security experts recommend disabling it when not in use. If your router allows it, use WPS only during setup and turn it off afterward.

What if my printer has no screen?

Use WPS, a mobile app, USB setup, or Brother’s computer-based wireless setup utility. These methods are designed for printers with limited controls.

How do I know the setup worked?

Look for a connected wireless icon, a valid IP address on the network report, and successful test prints from your devices.

Conclusion

Learning How to Change Brother Printer Wifi? is mostly about choosing the method that matches your printer and network. Start with the control panel if your model has a display, use WPS for quick pairing when supported, and rely on app, browser, or USB setup for more complex situations. After the printer connects, update your computers and mobile devices, print a test page, and keep a record of the network details. With the right preparation, changing your Brother printer’s Wi-Fi network can be a smooth and reliable process.