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Wifi Guide

How to Change Wifi Brother Printer? Brother Printer Setup

Introduction If you have recently upgraded your home or office network, moved to a new location, or simply want to connect your Brother printer to a different wireless network, you may be wondering How to Change Wifi Brother Printer? This guide walks you throu

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Introduction

If you have recently upgraded your home or office network, moved to a new location, or simply want to connect your Brother printer to a different wireless network, you may be wondering How to Change Wifi Brother Printer? This guide walks you through every reliable method for updating the wireless settings on a Brother printer, from quick control-panel steps to advanced browser-based configuration. Whether you own a compact inkjet, a multifunction laser, or a business-class Brother device, the process is usually straightforward once you understand the available options.

Brother printers are popular because they support multiple connection methods, including Wi-Fi Direct, WPS, USB, Ethernet, and mobile app setup. That flexibility is helpful, but it can also make the first-time setup feel confusing. In this article, you will learn how to prepare your printer, choose the best connection method for your situation, follow clear step-by-step instructions, troubleshoot common problems, and keep your printer securely connected for the long term.

Table of Contents

Understanding Brother Printer WiFi Setup

Before answering How to Change Wifi Brother Printer? in detail, it helps to understand how Brother printers connect to wireless networks. Most modern Brother printers include a built-in wireless adapter and support 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. Some newer or business models also support 5 GHz networks, but 2.4 GHz remains the most widely compatible option. The printer can usually connect to an access point, router, or Wi-Fi Direct device. Once connected, computers and mobile devices on the same network can send print jobs.

Brother provides several setup paths because users have different needs. A home user may prefer a mobile app, while an office administrator may prefer a web browser interface. A user without network credentials may use WPS if the router supports it. Understanding these options helps you choose the fastest and most reliable method.

Why You Might Need to Change WiFi on a Brother Printer

There are many reasons to update your printer’s wireless settings. You may have changed your internet service provider, replaced your router, renamed your SSID, or updated your Wi-Fi password. You may also be moving the printer to a different floor or room where a different access point provides better coverage. In offices, network segmentation, guest networks, and security policies may require printers to join a specific VLAN or SSID.

Sometimes the printer itself has become unstable. If it frequently drops offline, changing the connection method or reconnecting to a stronger signal can improve reliability. In all of these cases, knowing How to Change Wifi Brother Printer? saves time and prevents unnecessary service calls.

Prerequisites Before You Begin

Gather the following items before changing your Brother printer’s Wi-Fi settings:

  • Your Wi-Fi network name, also called the SSID.
  • Your Wi-Fi password, also called the network key or passphrase.
  • The printer powered on and in a ready state.
  • Access to the printer’s control panel, if it has a display.
  • A smartphone, tablet, or computer connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
  • A USB cable if you plan to use a wired setup method.
  • The latest Brother driver or utility software, if available.

Also check whether your router broadcasts separate 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks. If your Brother printer supports only 2.4 GHz, connect it to the 2.4 GHz SSID. If you use a mesh system, make sure the printer can reach the nearest node and that band steering is not causing repeated disconnections.

Method 1: Change WiFi Using the Printer Control Panel

The control panel method is often the fastest option for printers with a touchscreen or LCD display. The exact menu names vary by model, but the general process is similar.

  1. Turn on the Brother printer and make sure it is not printing or scanning.
  2. Press the Menu, Settings, or gear icon on the control panel.
  3. Navigate to Network or WLAN.
  4. Select WLAN, Wireless, or Wi-Fi Setup.
  5. Choose Setup Wizard, Manual Setup, or Search SSID.
  6. Wait while the printer searches for available networks.
  7. Select your Wi-Fi network name from the list.
  8. Enter the Wi-Fi password carefully using the on-screen keyboard.
  9. Confirm the settings and allow the printer to connect.
  10. Print a network configuration report to verify the IP address and connection status.

If your printer has a small non-touch display, use the arrow keys and OK button to navigate. Some models require you to press and hold a Wi-Fi button for several seconds to enter setup mode. Always consult the quick setup guide for your exact model if the menu labels differ.

Method 2: Change WiFi Using WPS

Wi-Fi Protected Setup, or WPS, allows you to connect a printer to a router without typing a password. This method is convenient, but it only works if both the printer and router support WPS. Many routers disable WPS by default for security reasons, so you may need to enable it temporarily in the router settings.

  1. Make sure the printer is powered on and near the router.
  2. Press the WPS button on your router. On some routers, you may need to log in and enable WPS first.
  3. Within two minutes, press and hold the WPS button on the Brother printer until the Wi-Fi light begins to blink.
  4. Wait for the printer to connect automatically.
  5. Check the printer’s network status or print a configuration report.

WPS is fast, but it may not work on networks with MAC filtering, hidden SSIDs, or advanced security configurations. If WPS fails, use the control panel or USB method instead.

Method 3: Change WiFi Using Brother Mobile Connect or iPrint&Scan

Brother offers mobile apps that simplify printer setup. Depending on your model, you may use Brother Mobile Connect, Brother iPrint&Scan, or another Brother utility. These apps can guide you through wireless configuration and often provide a more user-friendly interface than the printer’s small screen.

  1. Download the official Brother app from your device’s app store.
  2. Connect your smartphone or tablet to the Wi-Fi network you want the printer to use.
  3. Open the app and select your printer model or choose add device.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to put the printer into setup mode.
  5. Allow the app to detect the printer, either through Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth, or a temporary access point created by the printer.
  6. Select your home or office Wi-Fi network from the list.
  7. Enter the Wi-Fi password and confirm.
  8. Wait for the app to complete the connection.
  9. Print a test page from the app to confirm everything works.

This method is especially useful for printers without a display. It also helps users who find on-screen keyboards difficult. Keep your phone close to the printer during setup to maintain a strong temporary connection.

Method 4: Change WiFi Using the Embedded Web Server

Many Brother printers include an embedded web server, allowing you to manage settings through a browser. This method is ideal if the printer is already connected to a network temporarily or if you want advanced configuration options.

  1. Find the printer’s current IP address by printing a network configuration report from the control panel.
  2. Open a web browser on a computer connected to the same network.
  3. Type the printer’s IP address into the address bar and press Enter.
  4. Log in if prompted. The default administrator password is often found on a label inside the printer or in the manual.
  5. Navigate to Network, WLAN, or Wireless Settings.
  6. Choose Manual Setup or Infrastructure Mode.
  7. Select your new SSID from the available networks or enter it manually.
  8. Enter the security type and password.
  9. Apply or save the settings.
  10. Restart the printer if required and verify the new IP address.

The browser interface may also allow you to configure DNS, proxy settings, SNMP, and security options. If you change the printer’s IP address, update any saved printer ports on your computers.

Method 5: Change WiFi Using a USB Cable

If wireless setup is failing, a USB cable can provide a stable temporary connection. This is one of the most reliable ways to configure a Brother printer’s Wi-Fi settings.

  1. Connect the printer to your computer using a compatible USB cable.
  2. Install the Brother driver or setup utility if it is not already installed.
  3. Launch the Brother installation or wireless setup wizard.
  4. Select the option to configure wireless settings.
  5. Choose your Wi-Fi network from the list or enter the SSID manually.
  6. Enter the Wi-Fi password.
  7. Complete the wizard and disconnect the USB cable when prompted.
  8. Verify wireless connectivity by printing a test page.

USB setup is particularly helpful for printers without displays or for users who want to avoid temporary Wi-Fi Direct connections. It also reduces the chance of password entry errors.

Method 6: Change WiFi Using Brother Utilities on Windows or Mac

Brother provides desktop software that can detect printers and manage wireless settings. Depending on your model, you may use Brother Utilities, ControlCenter, or a dedicated wireless setup tool.

  1. Install the latest Brother software from the official Brother support website.
  2. Open the wireless setup or network configuration tool.
  3. Select your printer if it appears in the device list.
  4. Choose the option to change wireless network settings.
  5. Select the target SSID.
  6. Enter the network password.
  7. Apply the settings and wait for confirmation.
  8. Restart the printer or computer if requested.

Desktop utilities can also update firmware, check ink or toner levels, and configure scan destinations. Keeping the software updated improves compatibility with newer operating systems.

Model-Specific Notes for Popular Brother Printers

Different Brother series have slightly different setup paths. The following notes can help you navigate common models.

Inkjet Models

Popular inkjet models such as the Brother MFC-J series often include a touchscreen and a dedicated Wi-Fi button. Many support Wi-Fi Direct, making mobile app setup easy. If the printer has a touchscreen, use the Network menu and WLAN setup wizard. If not, use the mobile app or USB method.

Laser Models

Brother laser printers, including many HL and MFC-L series devices, often have smaller displays or button-based navigation. They may require more careful menu navigation. Business models may support both wired Ethernet and wireless connections, allowing you to temporarily use Ethernet for browser-based configuration.

Compact and Portable Models

Compact printers may rely heavily on mobile apps. They often create a temporary Wi-Fi Direct network during setup. Follow the app instructions closely and ensure your phone remains connected to the temporary network until the setup completes.

Comparison of WiFi Change Methods

Method Best For Requires Password Entry Requires Extra Hardware Difficulty
Control Panel Printers with displays Yes No Easy
WPS Quick setup with compatible router No No Very Easy
Mobile App Printers without displays Yes Smartphone Easy
Web Browser Advanced configuration Yes Computer Moderate
USB Cable Reliable wired setup Yes USB cable and computer Moderate
Desktop Utility Office environments Yes Computer Moderate

Troubleshooting Common WiFi Connection Issues

Even when you know How to Change Wifi Brother Printer?, setup can fail due to network or hardware issues. Try the following solutions.

Incorrect Password or Security Type

Wi-Fi passwords are case-sensitive. Make sure Caps Lock is off and that you select the correct security type, such as WPA2-PSK or WPA3. If your router uses WPA3 only, an older printer may not connect. Temporarily enabling WPA2/WPA3 mixed mode can help.

Weak Signal or Interference

If the printer is far from the router, move it closer during setup. Avoid placing it near microwaves, cordless phones, or thick walls. After setup, you can return it to its normal location if the signal remains strong.

Hidden Network Name

If your SSID is hidden, manual setup is usually required. Enter the network name exactly as configured, including case and spaces. Select the correct security mode before entering the password.

IP Address Conflicts

If multiple devices use the same IP address, the printer may appear offline. Set the printer to obtain an IP address automatically via DHCP, or assign a reserved IP address in your router. After changing networks, restart the printer and router if needed.

Firewall or Antivirus Blocking

Security software can block printer discovery. Temporarily disable the firewall during setup, or add an exception for Brother software. Re-enable protection after the printer connects.

Outdated Firmware

Older firmware may not support newer router features. Check the Brother support website for firmware updates. Some models allow firmware updates through the control panel or desktop utility.

Tips and Best Practices

  • Write down your Wi-Fi password before starting setup.
  • Use the 2.4 GHz band for maximum compatibility unless your printer explicitly supports 5 GHz.
  • Keep the printer and router close during initial setup.
  • Print a network configuration report after every change.
  • Update printer firmware and drivers regularly.
  • Use a reserved DHCP address for business printers to avoid IP changes.
  • Disable WPS after setup if your security policy requires it.
  • Remove old printer entries from computers to avoid sending jobs to the wrong device.
  • Test printing, scanning, and copying after changing networks.
  • Store the printer’s admin password in a secure password manager.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change Brother printer WiFi without a computer?

Yes. If your printer has a control panel, you can use the WLAN setup wizard directly. You can also use a mobile app on a smartphone or tablet. These methods do not require a computer.

Where do I find my WiFi password?

Your Wi-Fi password is usually printed on a label on your router. You can also find it in your router’s admin panel or in your operating system’s saved network settings. If you changed it and forgot it, you may need to reset the router.

Should I connect my Brother printer to 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz?

Most Brother printers support 2.4 GHz. Use 2.4 GHz unless your model specifically supports 5 GHz. The 2.4 GHz band has longer range and better wall penetration, which is often ideal for printers.

Why is my Brother printer offline after changing WiFi?

The computer may still be pointing to the old IP address. Restart the printer and computer, remove and re-add the printer, or update the printer port to the new IP address. Also ensure both devices are on the same network.

How do I reset network settings on a Brother printer?

Open the printer menu, go to Network or Machine Info, and look for a reset or restore option. Some models have a dedicated reset button combination. Resetting network settings returns the printer to factory network defaults but does not erase print settings.

What if WPS does not work?

WPS may be disabled on the router or unsupported by the printer. Use the control panel, mobile app, USB, or browser method instead. Also check that you press both WPS buttons within the required time window.

Can I connect one Brother printer to multiple WiFi networks?

Most Brother printers connect to one wireless network at a time. Some business models support multiple profiles, but only one is active. To switch networks, repeat the setup process for the new SSID.

Do I need the printer’s MAC address?

Usually no. However, if your network uses MAC address filtering, you will need to add the printer’s MAC address to the allowed list. You can find it on the network configuration report.

Conclusion

Changing the wireless network on a Brother printer does not have to be difficult. Whether you use the control panel, WPS, a mobile app, a web browser, a USB cable, or desktop software, the key is to prepare your network credentials, follow the steps carefully, and verify the connection afterward. If you encounter problems, checking signal strength, security settings, IP conflicts, and firmware usually resolves them. By understanding How to Change Wifi Brother Printer? and choosing the method that fits your device and environment, you can keep your printer reliably connected and ready for everyday tasks.