How to Set up Wifi on Brother Printer? Wireless Printing Setup

Introduction

If you have recently purchased a Brother printer or moved it to a new location, you may be asking, “How to Set up Wifi on Brother Printer?” Wireless printing removes the need for long USB cables and allows multiple devices in your home or office to print from the same machine. Brother offers several setup methods, including control panel menus, WPS, mobile apps, web-based management, and operating system tools. This guide explains each option in clear, practical steps so you can choose the method that works best for your printer model and network environment.

Table of Contents

• Understanding Brother Wireless Printing
• Before You Begin: Requirements and Preparation
• Method 1: Using the Printer Control Panel
• Method 2: Using Brother iPrint&Scan
• Method 3: Using Web-Based Management
• Method 4: Setting Up on Windows
• Method 5: Setting Up on macOS
• Printing from Phones and Tablets
• Comparison of Brother Wi-Fi Setup Methods
• Troubleshooting Common Wi-Fi Issues
• Tips and Best Practices
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Understanding Brother Wireless Printing

Brother wireless printers connect to a Wi-Fi network so computers, phones, and tablets can send print jobs without a direct cable. Depending on the model, the printer may support 2.4 GHz networks, 5 GHz networks, or both. Some models include a touchscreen, while others use simple LED buttons. Because menu names vary slightly, always compare the on-screen instructions with your printer’s user guide.

When learning how to set up wifi on Brother printer, it helps to know the three main connection types. The first is infrastructure mode, where the printer joins your existing router. The second is Wi-Fi Direct, which creates a direct connection between a device and the printer without a router. The third is WPS, which uses a button on the router and printer to connect automatically. For most home and office users, infrastructure mode is the best choice because it allows all devices on the network to print.

Before You Begin: Requirements and Preparation

Preparation prevents most setup problems. Before starting, gather the following items and information:

• Your Brother printer, power cable, and any included documentation.
• The exact name of your Wi-Fi network, also called the SSID.
• Your Wi-Fi password, including uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
• A computer or mobile device connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
• The latest Brother printer driver or app, downloaded from Brother’s official support site.
• Physical access to your router if you plan to use WPS.

Place the printer within a reasonable distance of the router during setup. Thick walls, metal cabinets, and microwave ovens can weaken wireless signals. If possible, keep the printer in its final location and test signal strength before completing the setup. Also check whether your router uses a combined 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz network name. Some Brother printers connect more reliably when the router broadcasts separate network names.

Method 1: Using the Printer Control Panel

The control panel method is often the fastest way to answer “How to Set up Wifi on Brother Printer?” because everything happens on the printer. The exact steps depend on whether your printer has a touchscreen or a basic button interface.

WPS Push Button Method

WPS is useful if your router has a WPS button and you do not want to type a long password. Follow these general steps:

1. Turn on the Brother printer and make sure it is in a ready state.
2. Press the WPS button on your router. On many routers, this button must be pressed for several seconds.
3. Within two minutes, open the printer’s network menu and select the WPS option.
4. Choose the push-button WPS method if the printer asks for a connection type.
5. Wait while the printer and router exchange security information.
6. Print a network configuration page to confirm the IP address and connection status.

If the connection fails, repeat the process and ensure the router’s WPS feature is enabled. Some routers disable WPS by default for security reasons.

Manual SSID and Password Entry

Manual entry is more reliable than WPS on many networks. Use this method if your router does not support WPS or if you want precise control over the connection.

1. Turn on the printer and open the menu, settings, or network settings option.
2. Select WLAN, Wi-Fi, or Network and then choose Setup Wizard or WLAN Setup Wizard.
3. Allow the printer to search for available networks.
4. Select your SSID from the list. If your network is hidden, choose the option to enter the SSID manually.
5. Enter the Wi-Fi password carefully. Pay attention to uppercase and lowercase letters.
6. Confirm the settings and wait for the printer to connect.
7. Print a network status or configuration report to verify success.

On models without a touchscreen, you may need to use arrow keys and an OK button. Password entry can take time because you scroll through characters. If your password contains special symbols, check whether the printer keyboard supports them. If not, consider changing the Wi-Fi password temporarily or using another setup method.

Method 2: Using Brother iPrint&Scan

Brother iPrint&Scan is a free app for Android and iOS. It can help configure supported printers and is especially useful when the printer has no display or when you want to avoid typing on a small keypad. The app can also scan, print photos, and manage cloud services after setup.

General process:

1. Download Brother iPrint&Scan from the official app store.
2. Connect your phone or tablet to the Wi-Fi network you want the printer to use.
3. Open the app and follow the on-screen setup prompts.
4. Select your Brother printer model when prompted.
5. Allow the app to search for printers on the network.
6. If the printer is not yet connected, use the app’s wireless setup assistant if available.
7. Confirm the network name and password when requested.
8. Wait for the setup to complete and print a test page.

Not every Brother printer supports app-based wireless configuration. If your model does not appear, use the control panel or web-based method instead. Still, iPrint&Scan is valuable for everyday printing because it lets you print directly from a mobile device after the printer is connected.

Method 3: Using Web-Based Management

Web-based management is useful for advanced users and office administrators. It allows you to configure network settings through a browser. This method is especially helpful if the printer already has a temporary IP address or if you want to manage multiple Brother devices.

Steps:

1. Connect the printer to the network temporarily using Ethernet or an initial wireless setup method.
2. Print a network configuration page from the printer to find its IP address.
3. Open a web browser on a computer connected to the same network.
4. Type the printer’s IP address into the address bar and press Enter.
5. Log in if prompted. Many Brother devices use “admin” as the default username and leave the password blank or use a default password listed in the manual.
6. Open the network or wireless settings section.
7. Choose your SSID, enter the password, and apply the settings.
8. Restart the printer if requested.
9. Confirm the new IP address and print a test page.

Change default login credentials after setup. Leaving default passwords unchanged is a security risk, especially in offices or shared buildings.

Method 4: Setting Up on Windows

Windows can install a Brother printer automatically once it is connected to Wi-Fi. However, Windows setup is not the same as connecting the printer to Wi-Fi. First connect the printer using one of the methods above, then add it to Windows.

Steps for Windows 10 or Windows 11:

1. Make sure the printer is powered on and connected to Wi-Fi.
2. Open Settings and go to Bluetooth & devices, then Printers & scanners.
3. Select Add device or Add printer.
4. Wait for Windows to detect the Brother printer.
5. Select the printer and click Add device.
6. If Windows does not find it, choose Add manually.
7. Select Add a printer using an IP address or hostname.
8. Enter the printer’s IP address.
9. Choose the correct Brother driver or let Windows download it.
10. Print a test page.

For the best feature support, download the full driver package from Brother’s website rather than relying only on the basic Windows driver. Full drivers often include scanning utilities, status monitors, and maintenance tools.

Method 5: Setting Up on macOS

macOS usually detects AirPrint-compatible Brother printers automatically. If your printer supports AirPrint, setup can be very simple. If you need advanced scanning or maintenance features, install Brother’s macOS software package.

Steps:

1. Connect the printer to Wi-Fi using the control panel or another method.
2. On your Mac, open System Settings or System Preferences.
3. Go to Printers & Scanners.
4. Click the plus button to add a printer.
5. Select the Brother printer from the list.
6. Choose AirPrint or the Brother driver if available.
7. Click Add.
8. Print a test page.

If the printer does not appear, ensure your Mac and printer are on the same network. Temporarily disable VPN software, because VPNs can block local device discovery. You can also add the printer by IP address using the Advanced tab in the printer addition window.

Printing from Phones and Tablets

After you complete the main setup, mobile printing is usually straightforward. Most modern Brother printers support AirPrint for Apple devices and Mopria for Android devices. You can also use Brother iPrint&Scan for more control.

To print from an iPhone or iPad:

1. Open the document, photo, or webpage you want to print.
2. Tap the Share icon.
3. Select Print.
4. Choose your Brother printer.
5. Adjust copies and pages.
6. Tap Print.

To print from Android:

1. Open the file or app.
2. Tap the menu and select Print.
3. Choose your Brother printer.
4. Adjust settings as needed.
5. Tap the print button.

If the printer does not appear, verify that mobile printing is enabled in the printer’s network settings and that your device is connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

Comparison of Brother Wi-Fi Setup Methods

The best setup method depends on your printer model, network, and comfort level. The table below compares common options.

Method	Best For	Advantages	Limitations
Control Panel + WPS	Quick home setup	Fast and requires little typing	Depends on router WPS support
Control Panel Manual Entry	Most users	Reliable and works with most networks	Password entry can be slow
Brother iPrint&Scan	Mobile-first users	Convenient app-based workflow	Not supported by every model
Web-Based Management	Advanced or office users	Detailed control and administration	Requires browser and IP address
Windows Setup	PC users	Easy driver installation	Printer must already be on Wi-Fi
macOS Setup	Mac users	AirPrint support is simple	Advanced features may need drivers

Troubleshooting Common Wi-Fi Issues

Even when you follow the steps correctly, wireless setup can fail. The following troubleshooting tips address the most common problems.

Printer Not Found on the Network

• Confirm the printer is powered on and not in sleep mode.
• Check that the computer or phone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
• Restart the printer, router, and computer.
• Temporarily disable VPN, firewall, or antivirus network protection.
• Move the printer closer to the router during setup.

Incorrect Password or Authentication Error

• Re-enter the Wi-Fi password carefully.
• Check whether Caps Lock is affecting password entry.
• Confirm the router security type, such as WPA2 or WPA3.
• Some older Brother printers may not support WPA3-only networks. Enable WPA2 or a mixed mode if necessary.

Weak or Unstable Connection

• Place the printer away from metal objects and large appliances.
• Use the 2.4 GHz band if the printer does not support 5 GHz.
• Update the router firmware.
• Consider a Wi-Fi extender or mesh node near the printer.

IP Address Changes

If the printer’s IP address changes frequently, Windows or macOS may lose track of it. Assign a static IP address or create a DHCP reservation in your router settings. This keeps the printer’s address consistent and improves reliability.

Tips and Best Practices

These tips help you maintain a stable Brother wireless printing setup over time:

• Keep the printer firmware updated using Brother’s official tools.
• Install the full driver package for your operating system.
• Use a strong Wi-Fi password and avoid open networks.
• Change default administrator passwords on the printer’s web interface.
• Print a network configuration page after any network change.
• Label the printer with its IP address if multiple devices use it.
• Restart the printer weekly in busy offices to clear temporary memory issues.
• Use Ethernet for the initial setup if wireless configuration is difficult.

If you are still wondering how to set up wifi on Brother printer after trying one method, switch to another. For example, if WPS fails, use manual SSID entry. If manual entry is frustrating on a small keypad, use Ethernet and web-based management to configure wireless settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need WPS to set up a Brother printer wirelessly?

No. WPS is optional. You can enter the SSID and password manually through the printer control panel or configure the printer using other methods.

Why will my Brother printer not connect to my 5 GHz network?

Some Brother printers only support 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. Check your model specifications. If necessary, connect the printer to the 2.4 GHz band or enable a mixed-mode network.

Can I connect to a hidden Wi-Fi network?

Yes, if the printer supports manual SSID entry. You will need to type the network name exactly, including uppercase and lowercase letters.

Can multiple computers use the same wireless Brother printer?

Yes. Once the printer is connected to Wi-Fi, each computer or mobile device can add it separately using the appropriate operating system or app.

How do I reset network settings on a Brother printer?

Most models have a network reset option in the settings menu. You can also reset from the web interface. After resetting, you will need to repeat the Wi-Fi setup process.

Do I need Brother drivers if my printer supports AirPrint?

AirPrint allows basic printing without installing drivers. However, Brother drivers may provide better scanning, maintenance, and status monitoring features.

Conclusion

Learning how to set up wifi on Brother printer is manageable when you choose the right method for your device. Start by preparing your network details, then use the control panel, WPS, mobile app, web interface, Windows, or macOS tools as appropriate. For most users, manual SSID entry is the most dependable option. After setup, install the proper drivers, assign a stable IP address, and follow basic security practices. With these steps, your Brother printer can provide convenient wireless printing for years.