Getting your Brother printer online should be straightforward, but let’s be real—it’s often not. One minute, you’re connecting it to WiFi, and the next, it’s stuck in “offline” limbo, blinking angrily like it knows you skipped a step.
Over the years, we’ve seen the same setup mistakes over and over. And honestly? Most of them are totally avoidable with a little attention upfront.
Whether you’re setting things up for the first time or troubleshooting an existing mess, this guide will walk you through the top five pitfalls—and how to dodge them like a tech pro (even if you’re not one).
1. Skipping Network Configuration Altogether
Let’s start with the most common (and arguably the most frustrating) mistake: skipping the network configuration step.
You’d be surprised how many users assume the printer will magically find the WiFi and sort itself out.
Spoiler: it won’t.
During setup, you must manually select your network, enter the password, and confirm the connection. If your printer has a screen, this is usually done via the control panel. If it doesn’t, the software installer or WPS method will guide you.
Why is this so important? Because without completing this properly, your printer either won’t connect or will keep dropping off the network.
We’ve laid out the full process clearly in our correct Brother WiFi setup process if you need a step-by-step to follow.
2. Using Outdated or Incomplete Drivers
This one’s easy to miss, especially if you’re the type who likes plugging in devices and hoping Windows just “figures it out.”
Here’s the thing: relying on built-in system drivers or the CD that came with the printer 3 years ago? Not smart.
Why? Outdated drivers can miss support for your current operating system or WiFi security protocols. And sometimes, the printer won’t even get recognized on the network because the driver doesn’t speak the same “language” as your router.
Always go to the official Brother support site and grab the latest full software and driver package for your printer model. It’s updated regularly with bug fixes, new features, and security enhancements.
If you’re already stuck, uninstall what you’ve got, reboot, and do a clean install. It usually clears things up fast.
3. Putting the Printer Too Far from the Router
Here’s a mistake people rarely think about: printer placement.
Sure, your phone works in that back bedroom—but that doesn’t mean your printer can. These devices often have weaker antennas, and they struggle with interference from walls, furniture, or other electronics.
If your Brother printer is more than 20–25 feet from your router, or on a different floor, there’s a good chance the WiFi connection will be spotty at best.
Try placing it closer during setup, or use a WiFi range extender if you really need to keep it in that far corner of the house. Signal stability matters more than you think.
4. Forgetting to Update Network Settings After Router Changes
Upgraded your WiFi router recently? Or switched internet providers?
Don’t assume your printer will magically reconnect—even if you used the same SSID and password. New routers usually mean new IP ranges, encryption settings, or dual-band management that your printer may not recognize.
If your printer worked fine before and suddenly doesn’t, reset the network settings on the printer and go through the connection process again from scratch.
Our step-by-step instructions to avoid mistakes include everything you need for a clean re-setup.
5. Ignoring Bandwidth and Firewall Conflicts
Last but not least, let’s talk about things you can’t see: your WiFi band and firewall settings.
WiFi Band:
Many Brother printers still only work with 2.4GHz networks. If your router combines both 2.4GHz and 5GHz under one SSID, your printer might struggle to latch on.
Separate the bands temporarily during setup. Connect the printer to 2.4GHz first, and only reconnect your other devices afterward.
Firewall/Antivirus:
Believe it or not, your own antivirus software or firewall could block printer communication. Temporarily disabling them during setup (just for a few minutes) can make the difference between frustration and success.
Once the connection’s stable, turn them back on—your printer will still work fine afterward.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What happens if I skip the network configuration during setup?
The printer might not connect to your router properly or could keep switching to the wrong network. Always complete this step carefully. - Why should I avoid using outdated drivers when setting up WiFi?
Outdated drivers can cause compatibility issues with your OS or router, leading to connection drops or unrecognized devices. - Is it a mistake to place my Brother printer far from the router?
Yes. Weak signal strength can lead to slow print jobs or frequent disconnections. Keep it reasonably close for best results. - Can I use the same WiFi settings after a router replacement?
Not always. Even with the same SSID and password, other backend changes mean your printer might need to be reconfigured. - Should I disable firewall or antivirus while connecting my printer to WiFi?
Yes, temporarily. Security tools can block printer communication during setup. Just re-enable them after the setup is complete. - How important is choosing the correct WiFi band for setup?
Very important. Many Brother models only support 2.4GHz. Connecting to 5GHz can cause failure to detect or hold a stable connection.
Final Thoughts
Setting up a Brother printer on WiFi doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Most problems pop up because of skipped steps or small technical blind spots. The good news? Now you know what to avoid.
Just remember:
- Complete the network config
- Use updated software
- Place the printer wisely
- Reset after router changes
- Check the band and security settings
Do all that, and you’ll be printing stress-free in no time.
