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Setup and Configuration

How to Change the Wifi on Brother Printer? For Wireless Printing

Introduction If you’ve recently changed your home or office router, updated your network password, or moved your printer to a new location, you may be wondering How to Change the Wifi on Brother Printer? Wireless printing is convenient, but it depends entirely

HowToFixWiFi

Introduction

If you’ve recently changed your home or office router, updated your network password, or moved your printer to a new location, you may be wondering How to Change the Wifi on Brother Printer? Wireless printing is convenient, but it depends entirely on a stable connection between your Brother printer and your Wi-Fi network. When that connection breaks, printing stops until you reconnect the device.

This guide walks you through every reliable method for changing the Wi-Fi network on a Brother printer, from using the control panel on the machine itself to software-based setup tools. Whether you own a compact inkjet like the Brother HL series, a multifunction MFC model, or a laser printer, you’ll find clear, step-by-step instructions here. We’ll also cover troubleshooting tips, a comparison of methods, and answers to common questions so you can get back to wireless printing quickly.

Table of Contents

Why You Might Need to Change the WiFi on Your Brother Printer

There are several everyday situations that require you to update the wireless settings on your Brother printer. The most common is replacing your router or changing your internet service provider, which often comes with a new network name (SSID) and password. Even if your router stays the same, changing the Wi-Fi password for security reasons will disconnect every device, including your printer.

Other reasons include moving the printer to a different room with weaker signal, upgrading from a 2.4 GHz to a 5 GHz network, or setting up a guest network. Some Brother printers only support 2.4 GHz, so switching to a 5 GHz-only router may require adjusting your router settings or using a dual-band configuration. Understanding these scenarios helps you choose the right method below.

Before You Start: What You’ll Need

Preparation makes the process smooth and prevents mid-setup frustration. Gather the following before you begin:

  • The exact name (SSID) of your Wi-Fi network.
  • Your Wi-Fi password (case-sensitive).
  • Your Brother printer powered on and in a ready state.
  • A computer or smartphone connected to the same Wi-Fi network you want the printer to use.
  • The Brother printer model number, usually printed on the front or top of the device.
  • Optional: a USB cable if you plan to use the wired setup method.

It’s also a good idea to write down your current printer settings, such as IP address, in case you need to revert. You can print a network configuration page from the printer’s menu to capture this information.

Method 1: Change WiFi Using the Printer Control Panel

Most Brother printers with an LCD screen allow you to change the Wi-Fi network directly from the device. This is often the fastest method and doesn’t require a computer.

Step-by-Step: Control Panel Method

  1. Press the Menu or Settings button on the printer.
  2. Navigate to Network or WLAN settings.
  3. Select WLAN or Wi-Fi Setup Wizard.
  4. Choose Setup Wizard to search for available networks.
  5. Select your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) from the list.
  6. Enter your Wi-Fi password using the on-screen keyboard. Use the arrow keys to move between characters and confirm.
  7. Press OK to connect. The printer will attempt to join the network.
  8. When the connection succeeds, the Wi-Fi icon on the display will show a solid signal.

If your printer has a touchscreen, the process is similar but uses on-screen taps instead of physical buttons. Some models ask whether to apply settings; choose Yes or Apply.

Tips for the Control Panel Method

  • If your network is hidden, choose the option to enter the SSID manually.
  • Double-check capitalization in your password; Wi-Fi passwords are case-sensitive.
  • If the list of networks is empty, move the printer closer to the router and retry.

Method 2: Change WiFi Using Brother iPrint&Scan

Brother iPrint&Scan is a free app for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. It can guide you through wireless setup, especially useful for printers without a display.

Step-by-Step: iPrint&Scan Method

  1. Download and install Brother iPrint&Scan from the official Brother website or your device’s app store.
  2. Open the app and tap or click Printer Settings or Machine Settings.
  3. Select Network and then Wireless Setup Wizard.
  4. Follow the prompts to choose your Wi-Fi network and enter the password.
  5. The app sends the settings to the printer, which then connects automatically.
  6. Confirm the connection status in the app.

This method is convenient if you prefer typing on a phone or computer keyboard rather than the printer’s small interface. Keep your device connected to the target Wi-Fi network during setup so the app can communicate properly.

Method 3: Change WiFi Using WPS

Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) lets you connect without typing a password, provided both your router and printer support it. It’s the quickest option when available.

Step-by-Step: WPS Method

  1. Press the WPS button on your router (or enable WPS in router settings).
  2. Within two minutes, press and hold the Wi-Fi or WPS button on the Brother printer until the Wi-Fi light blinks.
  3. Wait for the printer to connect. The Wi-Fi light should become solid.
  4. Print a network configuration page to confirm the new IP address.

WPS is simple but has limitations. Some routers disable WPS by default for security, and certain Brother models don’t support it. If WPS fails, switch to the control panel or USB method.

Method 4: Change WiFi via Web-Based Management

Brother printers often include a built-in web server you can access from a browser. This method is ideal for advanced users who want full control over network settings.

Step-by-Step: Web-Based Method

  1. Find the printer’s current IP address by printing a network configuration page.
  2. Enter that IP address into your web browser’s address bar.
  3. Log in if prompted (default credentials are often “admin” and “access” or blank—check your manual).
  4. Navigate to Network > WLAN or Wireless settings.
  5. Select your new SSID, enter the password, and apply changes.
  6. Restart the printer if required.

This interface also lets you configure IP settings, security, and firmware. Be careful when changing IP modes (DHCP vs. static) unless you know your network layout.

Method 5: Change WiFi Using a USB Cable

If wireless setup keeps failing, a temporary USB connection can push the new Wi-Fi settings to the printer reliably.

Step-by-Step: USB Method

  1. Connect the Brother printer to your computer with a USB cable.
  2. Install or open the Brother Wireless Setup Wizard (included with the driver package).
  3. Follow the wizard to select your Wi-Fi network and enter the password.
  4. The wizard transfers settings over USB, then the printer connects wirelessly.
  5. Disconnect the USB cable once the wireless connection is confirmed.
  6. Reinstall or update the printer driver on your computer if needed.

This is one of the most reliable approaches for first-time setup or when the printer’s wireless radio seems unresponsive. Afterward, you can print wirelessly as usual.

Comparison of WiFi Change Methods

Choosing the right method depends on your printer model, network equipment, and comfort level. The table below summarizes the options.

Method Requires Computer Requires Password Entry Best For Difficulty
Control Panel No Yes Printers with LCD screens Easy
Brother iPrint&Scan Optional (phone works) Yes Mobile-first users Easy
WPS No No Quick setup with WPS router Very Easy
Web-Based Management Yes Yes Advanced configuration Moderate
USB Cable Setup Yes Yes First-time or failed wireless setup Moderate

Reconnecting Computers and Devices After the Change

Once the printer is on the new Wi-Fi network, your computers and phones may still point to the old connection. Re-add the printer on each device:

  • On Windows, go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners, remove the old printer entry, and add it again.
  • On macOS, open System Settings > Printers & Scanners, remove and re-add the printer.
  • On mobile devices, reselect the printer in your printing app or Brother iPrint&Scan.

If the printer doesn’t appear automatically, use its new IP address to add it manually. Printing a fresh network configuration page confirms the current IP.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful steps, problems can occur. Here are frequent issues and fixes:

  • Printer won’t find the network: Ensure the router broadcasts 2.4 GHz; many Brother printers don’t support 5 GHz. Move the printer closer and retry.
  • Incorrect password error: Re-enter the password carefully, checking for spaces and capitalization. Consider temporarily changing the router password to something simple for testing.
  • Connection drops frequently: Reduce interference from microwaves or cordless phones, update printer firmware, and assign a static IP.
  • Printer shows connected but won’t print: Restart the printer and router, clear the print queue, and reinstall the driver.
  • WPS not working: Verify WPS is enabled on the router; some ISPs disable it. Use another method if needed.

Restarting both the printer and router resolves many transient network glitches. Also ensure firmware is up to date via Brother’s support site.

Tips and Best Practices

  • Keep your printer firmware updated to maintain compatibility with newer routers.
  • Place the printer within reasonable range of the router to avoid weak signals.
  • Use a strong but memorable Wi-Fi password, and store it securely.
  • Assign a static IP address to the printer for consistent access.
  • Label your network clearly to avoid connecting to a neighbor’s similar SSID.
  • Document your printer’s IP and settings for future reference.
  • If you change routers often, consider saving the wireless setup wizard on a USB drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find my Brother printer’s Wi-Fi password?

The Wi-Fi password is your router’s password, not something stored on the printer. Check the router label or your ISP documentation. If you’ve forgotten it, log into your router’s admin panel to view or reset it.

Can I change the WiFi without a computer?

Yes. If your Brother printer has an LCD or touchscreen, use the control panel Wi-Fi Setup Wizard. WPS also requires no computer. Alternatively, use the Brother iPrint&Scan app on a smartphone.

Why does my Brother printer not connect to 5 GHz Wi-Fi?

Many Brother printers only support 2.4 GHz networks. Check your model’s specifications. If your router is 5 GHz only, enable a 2.4 GHz band or use a dual-band router.

How long does it take to change the WiFi?

Typically 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the method. WPS is fastest, often under a minute. USB and app methods may take slightly longer due to software steps.

Will changing the WiFi delete my printer settings?

No. Only the wireless network credentials change. Your print preferences, paper settings, and other configurations remain intact.

What if I don’t know my network name (SSID)?

On Windows, click the Wi-Fi icon in the system tray. On macOS, check the Wi-Fi menu. On mobile, open Wi-Fi settings. The connected network name is your SSID.

Conclusion

Changing your wireless network on a Brother printer doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you use the control panel, a mobile app, WPS, web management, or a USB cable, the goal is the same: get your printer back online and printing. By following the steps above and choosing the method that fits your setup, you can answer How to Change the Wifi on Brother Printer? confidently and restore wireless printing in minutes. Keep your network details handy, maintain your firmware, and don’t hesitate to use the troubleshooting tips if something goes wrong. With the right approach, your Brother printer will be ready for seamless wireless printing again.