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How to Change Wifi on Brother Printer? Brother Printer Wifi Steps

Introduction Changing the wireless network on a Brother printer is a common task, especially when you upgrade your router, switch internet service providers, move to a new home, or change your WiFi name and password. If your Brother printer was previously conn

HowToFixWiFi

Introduction

Changing the wireless network on a Brother printer is a common task, especially when you upgrade your router, switch internet service providers, move to a new home, or change your WiFi name and password. If your Brother printer was previously connected to an old network, it will not appear on your computer or mobile device until it is reconnected to the new one. Learning How to Change Wifi on Brother Printer? can save you time, avoid unnecessary resets, and keep all of your printing tasks running without interruption.

Many users assume that changing a router means they need to buy a new printer, but that is almost never the case. Brother printers are built with flexible network settings that allow you to reconnect them using built-in control panels, the Brother iPrint&Scan app, the Brother Mobile Connect app, or the Windows and macOS utility tools. The right method depends on the exact model you own, as some older models only have buttons and an LCD panel, while newer ones have a color touchscreen.

This guide walks you through every reliable way to update your Brother printer’s wireless connection from start to finish. You will also learn how to prepare for the change, troubleshoot connection errors, understand network compatibility, and avoid common mistakes. By the end, you should be able to switch your printer to any supported WiFi network with confidence.

Table of Contents

Understanding When You Need to Change Wifi on a Brother Printer

Not every network issue requires you to go through the full reconnect process. However, there are very clear signs that it is time to update your Brother printer’s WiFi settings. Recognizing these signs will help you act quickly and prevent confusion.

Some of the most common situations include replacing an old router with a new one, changing your WiFi SSID or network password for security reasons, extending your network with a mesh system, switching from a 2.4GHz-only setup to a combined network, or moving your printer to an entirely different location with its own network. You may also need to do this if your printer was disconnected during a power outage or after a long period of inactivity.

Another thing to note is that if your phone or computer is on a new WiFi network and your Brother printer is still on the old one, they will not be able to communicate. Since most home printing relies on the same local network, both devices must be on identical SSID details for direct wireless printing to work. This is the key reason behind learning How to Change Wifi on Brother Printer? in the first place.

Things to Prepare Before You Start

Taking a few minutes to get everything ready will make the process far smoother and drastically lower the chance of errors. Skipping these checks is one of the most frequent causes of failed reconnections.

  • Know your network details: Have the exact WiFi name (SSID) and password of the network you want the printer to connect to. Pay attention to capitalization, spaces, and special characters.
  • Place the printer nearby: Keep your Brother printer within a reasonable range of your router while setting it up. Avoid thick walls, large metal objects, or placing it too far away during the initial connection.
  • Have a device ready: Keep a computer, laptop, or smartphone connected to the same WiFi network you plan to use for the printer. This helps with verification and using the companion tools.
  • Know your printer type: Check if your model has a full color touchscreen, a monochrome LCD with directional buttons, or a very minimal control panel. This determines which method applies best.
  • Keep power stable: Make sure the printer is plugged directly into a working outlet and has enough paper. Avoid using power strips with loose connections during setup.
  • Consider your network band: Many Brother printers only support 2.4GHz networks. If you have a dual-band router with both 2.4GHz and 5GHz under different names, use the 2.4GHz one unless your specific model explicitly states 5GHz support.

Method 1: Using the Printer Control Panel (Touchscreen Models)

This is the most direct and reliable approach for modern Brother printers that come equipped with a touch display. It does not always require a computer and works well even if your old network is no longer available.

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Access network settings: On the printer touchscreen, go to Settings, Network, or All Settings depending on your exact menu layout.
  2. Find wireless setup: Look for an option labeled Network followed by WLAN, Wi-Fi, or Wireless LAN.
  3. Choose setup wizard: Select Setup Wizard or Wireless Setup Wizard. This will scan for available networks in range.
  4. Select your network: From the list of detected SSIDs, tap the name of the WiFi network you want your Brother printer to use.
  5. Enter the password: Use the on-screen keyboard to type your network password exactly as it is. Double-check for case sensitivity before confirming.
  6. Confirm and connect: Apply the settings. The printer will attempt to connect and will usually show a confirmation message or a connected icon once successful.
  7. Print a report if desired: Many touchscreen models allow you to print a network configuration page to verify the new IP address and connection status.

If the old network was saved previously, the setup wizard will simply replace it with the new selection. This method is ideal for users who want to handle everything directly from the printer.

Method 2: Using the Printer Control Panel (Button and LCD Models)

Many entry-level and older Brother printers do not have a touchscreen. Instead, they use a small monochrome LCD screen paired with arrow keys, OK, Menu, or Go buttons. The process is slightly different, but still straightforward when done in order.

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Wake the printer: Turn on the printer and wait for it to become idle.
  2. Enter menu mode: Press Menu on the control panel. Use the arrow keys to navigate.
  3. Navigate to network: Go to Network or LAN, then select WLAN or Wireless.
  4. Launch setup: Select Setup Wizard. The printer will begin searching for nearby wireless networks.
  5. Pick your SSID: Scroll through the list until you find your desired network name. Press OK to select it.
  6. Input authentication: If prompted, enter your WiFi password using the button-based input. This can take a little patience as you cycle through characters.
  7. Apply and wait: Confirm the entry. The LCD will show messages such as “Connecting”, “Connected”, or “Failed”. A successful connection will display the signal strength or a confirmation.

On some very compact models, the menu names may be abbreviated. If you do not see “Setup Wizard”, look for “Change WLAN” or “Network Configuration” which can lead to a similar option.

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

If the printer is already powered on but connected to the wrong network and still discoverable on your current mobile network, mobile apps can be a convenient way to update settings. Availability depends on your printer model and firmware.

Using Brother Mobile Connect

  1. Connect your phone: Ensure your smartphone is connected to the WiFi network you want the printer to join.
  2. Open the app: Launch Brother Mobile Connect and allow it to search for nearby Brother printers.
  3. Select your printer: Tap your printer from the list. If it appears, open its Device Settings or Network section.
  4. Change network: Look for Wi-Fi Settings, Network Setup, or Change Connection. The app may guide you to switch the printer to the network your phone is currently using.
  5. Follow prompts: Complete the on-screen steps. The printer may briefly disconnect and reconnect.

Using Brother iPrint&Scan

  1. Prepare connection: Connect your mobile device to the target WiFi network.
  2. Detect the printer: Open Brother iPrint&Scan. If the printer is visible, select it.
  3. Access network info: Tap the menu related to your device. Depending on the version, look for Network Settings to see the current SSID.
  4. Reconfigure if available: Some models allow initiating wireless setup directly from here, while others will only show information. If the option to change WiFi is missing, use Method 1, 2, or 4 instead.

Note: Mobile apps work best when the printer is already on a network that your phone can reach at the time of detection. If the printer is completely disconnected from any wireless network, you will likely need the control panel method.

Method 4: Using the Brother Software on Windows or macOS

Brother provides official utility software that can walk you through changing the WiFi connection for many supported models. This is especially helpful if you prefer using your computer and want a guided interface.

For Windows

  1. Open the tool: Launch Brother Utilities from your Start menu. Alternatively, open ControlCenter if installed.
  2. Select your printer: Choose your Brother printer from the list of devices.
  3. Go to network tools: Look for Network Configuration, Device Settings, or Wireless Network Setup.
  4. Start the wizard: Select the option to change or reconfigure the wireless network. The utility will search for available networks.
  5. Pick and connect: Select your target SSID, enter the password, and proceed. The software will update the printer’s settings over the existing connection or guide you through the next steps.
  6. Complete installation check: Once finished, test by printing a small document or checking the printer status.

For macOS

  1. Open the application: Use the Brother Installer tools or Brother Utilities for macOS if previously installed.
  2. Find network setup: Navigate to your printer in the utility and look for Wireless Setup or Change Wireless Settings.
  3. Follow the assistant: The on-screen assistant will detect nearby networks and prompt for credentials.
  4. Apply changes: After entering your details, allow the process to complete. Your Mac may prompt to update the printer queue if the network changes.

If your computer cannot detect the printer at all on the old network, the utility may still allow you to use a temporary USB connection on some models to push the new WiFi settings. Check your on-screen prompts for that option.

Method 5: Using WPS Push Button if Supported

Wi-Fi Protected Setup, commonly known as WPS, is a shortcut for connecting compatible devices without manually typing long passwords. Many Brother printers and most modern routers support this. However, not all models include a WPS option, so treat this as a convenience method rather than a guaranteed one.

Prerequisites

  • Your router must have a physical WPS button or a WPS option in its admin interface.
  • Your Brother printer must support WPS Push Button mode.
  • Your target network must be active and within range.

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Start WPS on printer: On your Brother printer, go to Network > WLAN > WPS or WPS Push Button from the control panel. Some models require you to press and hold a specific button for a few seconds.
  2. Activate WPS on router: Within about two minutes, press the WPS button on your router. The router’s LED will usually blink to indicate WPS is active.
  3. Wait for pairing: The printer will automatically detect the router and negotiate the connection. This typically takes between 30 seconds and 2 minutes.
  4. Confirm success: The printer will display a success message, print a confirmation, or show a wireless icon. Some models beep once to indicate completion.

If nothing happens after two minutes, cancel and try the manual WiFi setup wizard instead. Also note that some routers disable WPS by default for security reasons, so you may need to enable it temporarily.

How to Check if Your Printer is Connected to the Correct Network

After going through the steps for How to Change Wifi on Brother Printer?, it is important to verify that the update actually took effect. A “success” message on the printer does not always mean all of your devices can see it yet.

From the printer itself

  • Network status: On touchscreen models, check Settings > Network > WLAN Status to see the current SSID name.
  • LCD check: On button models, use Network > WLAN > Wireless Status or print a network configuration page for a full breakdown.
  • Signal strength: Look for a bars icon or RSSI value. Weak signal can still show “connected” but cause random dropouts.

From your computer or phone

  • Printer list: On Windows, go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners and see the status of your Brother printer. On macOS, check System Settings > Printers & Scanners.
  • Same network test: Make sure the device you’re checking from is on the exact same WiFi network as the printer.
  • Quick print test: Print a test page from any app. If it sends and completes without going offline, the connection is working correctly.

Moving a Printer to a Different Band or a New Router

Modern routers often combine 2.4GHz and 5GHz into one network name using band steering. While convenient for phones and laptops, many older Brother printers cannot connect to a combined SSID or will fail during authentication. Understanding this distinction can prevent a lot of frustration.

Key considerations

  • Stick to 2.4GHz when in doubt: The vast majority of Brother inkjet and laser printers are designed for 2.4GHz due to better range and wall penetration. Only a limited number of newer models list 5GHz as compatible.
  • Split the bands temporarily: If your router allows, create a separate 2.4GHz network name (for example, Home-2G) and connect only the printer to it during setup. You can often merge them again later if both work together.
  • Use the same security type: Avoid very uncommon encryption modes. WPA2-Personal (AES) is the most widely supported. If your router is set to WPA3-Only, switch to a mixed mode or WPA2/WPA3 while setting up the printer.
  • Router replacement with same credentials: If your new router uses the exact same SSID and password as the old one, some Brother printers will reconnect automatically. If it does not, you must use one of the manual methods above.
  • Mesh networks: Mesh systems are usually fine, but some can isolate devices or use client steering aggressively. Keeping the printer closer to the primary node during setup helps a lot.

Troubleshooting Common Issues When Changing WiFi

Even with the correct steps, things can go wrong. Use the fixes below based on the specific issue you’re running into while trying to change your Brother printer’s WiFi.

Issue Likely Cause Recommended Fix
Printer not finding any networks Out of range, 5GHz-only visibility, or wireless disabled Move closer to router, switch to 2.4GHz, restart printer, and run Wireless Setup Wizard again.
Wrong password error Typo, incorrect case, or hidden spaces Re-enter the password carefully. If unsure, temporarily connect another device to confirm it first.
Stuck on “Connecting” Weak signal, DHCP conflict, or router congestion Power off router and printer for 60 seconds, restart both, and keep them within 10 feet during setup.
Printer connected but not appearing on PC Different networks, old printer queue, or firewall Ensure same WiFi, remove old printer entry, and add it again from printer list. Reinstall software only if needed.
WPS fails repeatedly WPS timeout, disabled on router, or incompatible model Use the manual Setup Wizard. Check router settings to confirm WPS is enabled for a short test.
Goes offline after router change IP changed or band steering issue Print network config, confirm SSID matches, and reconnect using control panel. Consider assigning a static IP later if it keeps dropping.
Cannot use mobile app to change WiFi Printer offline from app’s view or old network unreachable Use Method 1 or 2 directly from the printer. Mobile apps require the printer to be partially discoverable.

Extra quick tips for stubborn cases

  • Power cycle fully: Turn off the printer, unplug it for at least 30 seconds, plug back in, and turn on. Do the same for your wireless router.
  • Reset network settings only: Some Brother models allow a Network Reset or Restore Network Settings from the menu. Only use this as a last resort before full setup, as it clears all saved wireless data.
  • Check for interference: Microwaves, baby monitors, and some smart home devices can interfere. Try setting up during off-peak times or away from them.
  • Update firmware carefully: If the printer is already connected after switching, updating firmware can improve stability. Only do this once the connection is solid.

Comparison of Methods for Changing WiFi on Brother Printer

Choosing the right method depends on your model, available devices, and whether the printer is still connected. Use this comparison to pick the most efficient path for your situation.

Method Best For Works if Old Network is Lost? Needs Computer/Mobile? Ease of Use Notes
Control Panel (Touchscreen) Most modern models Yes No Very easy Fastest overall and most universal for direct changes.
Control Panel (Buttons + LCD) Older or compact models Yes No Moderate Slower due to character input, but very reliable.
Brother Mobile Connect / iPrint&Scan Quick changes when still discoverable Rarely Yes (Smartphone) Easy Option may be hidden or unavailable on some models.
Brother Software on Windows/macOS Users who prefer a guided wizard Sometimes Yes (Computer) Easy May use USB temporarily if wireless discovery fails.
WPS Push Button Router with WPS and compatible printer Yes No Very quick Not supported by all models or routers. Skip if it times out.

Tips and Best Practices

To avoid having to repeat this process too often and to keep your setup stable, keep these practical tips in mind going forward.

  • Keep both networks known: If you test with a hotspot or temporary network, document the details to avoid confusion later.
  • Prefer 2.4GHz for placement flexibility: Even if your phone loves 5GHz, placing your Brother printer on 2.4GHz usually gives more consistent coverage throughout the home.
  • Use a simple SSID and password: Extremely long or unusual character sets can sometimes cause issues on older printer firmware. Standard alphanumeric values are safest.
  • Keep the printer on the same network as your main devices: Guest networks often have client isolation enabled, which blocks printing between devices even if both are connected.
  • Print a network page after changes: This gives you the IP address, MAC address, and SSID in black and white. It’s incredibly useful for troubleshooting later.
  • Don’t move while connecting: Stay near both the printer and router during the wireless setup process to maintain strong signal strength.
  • Plan for ISP/router swaps: The next time you upgrade your router, decide your network name in advance. Keeping the same SSID and password can sometimes save you this entire process.
  • Be patient with button models: Typing a password with arrow keys feels slow, but rushing often leads to typos. Take your time and verify before confirming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to uninstall and reinstall my Brother printer after changing WiFi?

Not always. If both your computer and printer end up on the same new network, the existing printer entry will often reconnect on its own. If it shows as “Offline”, remove the old entry and add the printer again from your system’s printer list. Reinstallation is only necessary in rare cases where the driver becomes unresponsive.

What if I don’t know the old WiFi password and my printer won’t connect?

You do not need the old WiFi password to change to a new network. Use the Wireless Setup Wizard from the printer control panel, the Brother software utility, or WPS if available. All of these will let you pick a new SSID and enter its password directly.

Why can’t my Brother printer connect to my 5GHz network?

Most Brother printers are only compatible with 2.4GHz wireless networks. Even if your router broadcasts both, the printer’s wireless radio may not support 5GHz frequencies. If you have a combined network, try splitting into separate 2.4GHz and 5GHz names and connect to the 2.4GHz one.

Can I change WiFi on a Brother printer without touching the printer at all?

Only in very specific cases. If the printer is currently online and discoverable through the official Brother utility on a computer that shares the new network details, some tools may allow it. However, in most real scenarios where you’ve changed routers, you will need direct access to the printer’s control panel.

What should I do if my printer keeps dropping off WiFi after changing it?

Check signal strength first. Move the printer closer to the router, avoid placing it behind large electronics, or use the 2.4GHz band. Also check for IP conflicts by restarting both devices. If your router uses aggressive band steering or mesh roaming, connecting the printer to a single access point can greatly improve stability.

Is it safe to use the Network Reset option?

Yes, it is safe. A network reset only clears wireless settings, saved SSIDs, and network-related configurations. It does not erase printed documents, ink usage data, or most general printer settings. After doing it, you will need to run the full wireless setup again from scratch.

How long does it take to change WiFi on a Brother printer?

In most cases, the entire process takes between 3 and 8 minutes. Touchscreen models are usually the quickest, while button-based models can take a little longer due to manual password entry. Troubleshooting can add more time depending on the issue.

Conclusion

Knowing How to Change Wifi on Brother Printer? is a skill that pays off every time your home network changes. Whether you use the printer’s built-in control panel, the official Brother software, a mobile app, or WPS, the goal is the same: get your printer onto the correct WiFi network so it can communicate with all of your devices again.

For most people, the control panel Wireless Setup Wizard is the safest and most dependable route. If your model has a touchscreen, use Method 1. If it uses buttons and an LCD, use Method 2. Reserve WPS and mobile methods for situations where they actually work for your setup. Always verify the connection by checking the SSID and printing a test page before considering the task complete.

Remember to stick to the 2.4GHz band when unsure, double-check your password, and keep both printer and router close during setup. With the step-by-step guidance, comparison tables, and troubleshooting advice above, you should be able to handle this change with minimal hassle and get back to printing without unnecessary stress.