How to Solve Brother Printer Not Connecting to Computer
Brother printers are widely used for their efficiency, durability, and ease of use. However, like any piece of technology, they can sometimes encounter connectivity issues. One of the most common problems users face is when a Brother printer fails to connect to a computer—whether via USB or over a wireless network.
This issue can arise for various reasons, such as driver problems, software glitches, network errors, or misconfigured settings. Fortunately, in most cases, the problem can be resolved with a few simple steps.
This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of why a Brother printer may not be connecting to your computer and how to fix it, whether you're using Windows or macOS, with a USB or Wi-Fi connection.
Common Reasons Your Brother Printer Isn’t Connecting
Before troubleshooting, it’s helpful to understand the possible causes:
Outdated or missing drivers
USB or cable connection failure
Printer and computer not on the same Wi-Fi network
Software installation errors
Firewall or antivirus blocking communication
Printer offline or in sleep mode
Router issues or network congestion
System updates causing incompatibility
Troubleshooting USB Connection Issues
A USB connection is typically straightforward, but sometimes it fails due to driver or cable issues.
Step 1: Check the Physical Connection
Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the printer and computer.
Try a different USB port on your computer.
Avoid USB hubs—connect the printer directly to the computer.
Use a known-working cable if possible.
Step 2: Power Cycle the Devices
Turn off both the printer and computer.
Unplug the USB cable.
Wait 30 seconds, then reconnect and power on both devices.
Step 3: Reinstall or Update Drivers
Go to Brother’s official support website.
Download the Full Driver & Software Package for your printer model and operating system.
Uninstall any existing Brother software or drivers.
Install the new package and restart your computer.
Step 4: Check Device Manager (Windows)
Press Windows + X > Device Manager
Expand Printers or Universal Serial Bus controllers
If the printer appears with a warning symbol, right-click and choose Update Driver or Uninstall and reinstall.
Troubleshooting Wireless Connection Issues
If you're connecting your printer over Wi-Fi, there are additional layers of complexity.
Step 1: Confirm Wi-Fi Connection on Printer
On the printer control panel, navigate to Network > WLAN > Connection Status
Ensure the printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your computer.
Print a Network Configuration Report to verify the IP address.
Step 2: Check the Computer’s Network
Your computer must be on the same wireless network as the printer.
If you're using a guest or separate network, it may not detect the printer.
Step 3: Ping the Printer’s IP Address
(Windows)
Open Command Prompt
Type:
ping [printer’s IP address](e.g.,ping 192.168.1.100)If you get a response, the network connection is fine.
If there's no response:
Restart the router and reconnect the printer.
Ensure the Wi-Fi signal is strong near the printer.
Step 4: Re-add the Printer
Windows:
Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers > Add a Printer
If the printer is listed, remove and re-add it.
Click “Add a Printer” and follow the steps to add it as a network device.
macOS:
Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners
Click the + button to add the printer.
Select your Brother printer from the list. If it doesn’t appear, check the IP connection and firewall.
Software and Driver Issues
Incorrect or outdated drivers are often the root cause of connection problems.
Step 1: Uninstall Old Drivers
On Windows: Go to Apps > Brother Software, then uninstall.
On macOS: Remove any old printer entries from Printers & Scanners.
Step 2: Install the Latest Software
Visit Brother site.
Download the Full Driver & Software Package
Follow on-screen instructions during installation
Make sure to select the correct connection type (USB or wireless) during setup.
Check Firewall or Antivirus Settings
Security software can block communication between your printer and computer.
Temporarily Disable Security Software:
Disable your firewall or antivirus temporarily and try connecting the printer.
If it connects, create an exception for Brother software or ports.
Re-enable your firewall after testing to maintain security.
Additional Tips
Set as Default Printer: On Windows, go to Devices and Printers, right-click your Brother printer, and choose Set as default printer.
Avoid Sleep Mode: Some Brother printers enter deep sleep and disconnect from the network. Try waking the printer before scanning or printing.
Use Static IP: Assign a static IP address to the printer in your router settings to avoid future connection drops.
When to Contact Support
If all else fails and your Brother printer still isn’t connecting:
The printer may need a firmware update
There may be a hardware fault (e.g., damaged port, network module)
Contact Brother customer support for advanced diagnostics or service options
Conclusion
When your Brother printer won’t connect to your computer, it can disrupt productivity and cause frustration. Fortunately, most connectivity issues—whether USB- or Wi-Fi-related—can be resolved with simple troubleshooting steps like checking cables, reinstalling drivers, confirming Wi-Fi settings, or adjusting firewall permissions.
By understanding the common causes and methodically applying the solutions in this guide, you can get your Brother printer reconnected quickly and reliably. A properly connected printer ensures smooth printing, scanning, and access to all of Brother’s powerful features.