How to Fix Brother Printer Not Connecting to Computer

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A Brother printer not Connecting to Computer +1-803-866-1601 can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you need to print something urgently. Whether you’re using a USB connection or Wi-Fi, connection issues can arise due to several reasons, such as outdated drivers, cable problems, or network configuration errors. Here’s a detailed guide to help you diagnose and fix the Brother printer won’t Connect to Computer +1-803-866-1601 problem effectively.

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1. Check Basic Hardware Connections

Start with the simplest checks:

For USB Connection:

  • Make sure the USB cable is securely connected to both the printer and the computer.
  • Try using a different USB port on your PC.
  • Replace the USB cable if it appears worn out or damaged.

For Wireless Connection:

  • Ensure the Brother printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your computer.
  • Print a network configuration page from the printer to confirm the network status.
  • Restart your router and printer to refresh the connection.

2. Restart Devices

Sometimes, a quick restart of both your computer and printer can fix temporary communication issues. After restarting, check if the printer shows as connected in the control panel or settings.

3. Set Brother Printer as Default

If your Brother printer is not set as the default printer, it may not respond to print commands.

Windows Steps:

  • Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
  • Right-click your Brother printer and choose Set as default printer.

Mac Steps:

  • Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.
  • Select your Brother printer and click Set as Default.

4. Install or Update Printer Drivers

Outdated or missing drivers are one of the most common causes of connection failure.

To update:

  • Visit the official Brother website.
  • Search your printer model and download the latest drivers.
  • Install the full driver and software package compatible with your OS.

For the best results, uninstall old drivers before installing new ones:

  • On Windows: Use Device Manager or Control Panel > Uninstall a Program.
  • On Mac: Delete the printer from Printers & Scanners, then reinstall it.

5. Use the Brother Printer Setup Tool

Brother provides a setup utility that can help connect your printer to the computer over Wi-Fi or USB.

Steps:

  • Download the Brother Printer Driver Install Tool from their support site.
  • Follow the on-screen prompts to detect and configure the printer.
  • If it still doesn’t detect the printer, try connecting it manually using the IP address.

6. Allow Through Firewall and Antivirus

Security software can block printer communication. Temporarily disable your antivirus or firewall and check if the printer connects.

If it works:

  • Add exceptions in the firewall for Brother Printer Port (TCP 137, 138, 161) and Brother ControlCenter software.
  • Reactivate your antivirus afterward.

7. Check Network Settings (For Wireless Printers)

If you’re using Wi-Fi and your printer is not showing up:

  • Make sure the printer has a valid IP address.
  • Open Command Prompt and type ping [printer IP] to test connectivity.
  • If it fails, reconnect the printer to Wi-Fi using the WPS method or via the printer’s control panel.

8. Add Printer Manually

Sometimes, adding the printer manually helps:

Windows:

  • Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers > Add a printer.
  • Choose “The printer I want isn’t listed” > Add by IP address or name.

Mac:

  • Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners > + button.
  • Select the printer or use the IP tab to enter the printer’s IP address manually.

9. Reset Printer and Network Settings

If nothing works, reset the printer to its default settings. This can resolve persistent connection problems.

  • On the printer, go to Settings > Network > Factory Reset (steps may vary by model).
  • After reset, reconnect the printer to the network and try installing again.

Conclusion

Brother printer not Connecting to Computer +1-803-866-1601 issues usually stem from faulty cables, outdated drivers, network misconfigurations, or blocked communication by security software. Follow the above steps systematically—from basic checks to advanced troubleshooting—and you should be able to restore the connection.