What To Know
- Changing the name of your Brother printer on your network can make it easier to identify and manage, especially if you have multiple devices connected.
- After changing the name, you might need to refresh the list of devices on other computers or mobile devices connected to the network.
- If your printer is not showing up on the network, check your network settings and ensure that your printer is connected to the same network as your computer.
Are you tired of your Brother printer showing up with a generic or confusing name on your network? Changing the name of your Brother printer on your network can make it easier to identify and manage, especially if you have multiple devices connected. This blog post will guide you through the process of changing your Brother printer’s name on your network, covering both Windows and macOS operating systems.
Why Change Your Brother Printer Name?
Changing the name of your Brother printer on your network can be beneficial for several reasons:
- Clarity and Organization: A descriptive name makes it easier to distinguish your printer from others on the network, especially if you have multiple printers connected.
- Troubleshooting: A clear name can be helpful when troubleshooting network connectivity issues.
- Customization: You can personalize your printer with a name that reflects its purpose or location.
Changing Your Brother Printer Name on Windows
Follow these simple steps to change your Brother printer name on a Windows computer:
1. Open the Control Panel: Click the Windows Start button, then type “Control Panel” and press Enter.
2. Navigate to Devices and Printers: Locate and click on “Devices and Printers” in the Control Panel.
3. Right-click on your Brother printer: Find your Brother printer in the list of devices and right-click on its icon.
4. Select “Printer Properties“: From the context menu, choose “Printer Properties.”
5. Access the “General” tab: In the “Printer Properties” window, click on the “General” tab.
6. Change the “Printer Name”: In the “Printer Name” field, enter your desired new name.
7. Apply the changes: Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes.
Changing Your Brother Printer Name on macOS
Here’s how to change your Brother printer name on a macOS computer:
1. Open System Preferences: Click on the Apple menu in the top left corner of your screen, then select “System Preferences.”
2. Navigate to Printers & Scanners: Click on the “Printers & Scanners” icon.
3. Select your Brother printer: Find your Brother printer in the list of devices and click on it.
4. Click “Manage” and “Rename”: Click on the “Manage” button, then select “Rename” from the dropdown menu.
5. Enter a new name: Type in the desired new name for your printer.
6. Save the changes: Click “OK” to save the new name.
Additional Tips
- Restart your printer: After changing the name, it’s a good practice to restart your Brother printer to ensure the changes take effect properly.
- Check for updates: Make sure your printer’s firmware and drivers are up to date. This can help prevent compatibility issues and improve performance.
- Network Settings: If you’re having trouble changing the printer name, it might be helpful to review your network settings. Ensure your printer is connected to the correct network and that your firewall isn’t blocking communication.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While changing your Brother printer‘s name is usually straightforward, you might encounter some challenges. Here are some common issues and solutions:
- The printer name doesn’t change: If the printer name doesn’t update after following the steps above, try restarting your computer and printer. If the issue persists, check for any driver updates or contact Brother support for assistance.
- The new name doesn’t appear on other devices: After changing the name, you might need to refresh the list of devices on other computers or mobile devices connected to the network. This usually involves restarting the devices or manually searching for new printers.
- The printer is invisible on the network: If your printer is not showing up on the network, check your network settings and ensure that your printer is connected to the same network as your computer. You can also try restarting your router or modem.
Wrapping Up: Mastering Your Networked Printer
Changing your Brother printer name on your network is a simple but impactful task. It enhances organization, simplifies troubleshooting, and allows for personalization. By following the step-by-step instructions provided, you can easily rename your Brother printer and optimize its integration into your network environment.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I change the printer name on my mobile device?
A: Yes, you can typically change the printer name on mobile devices using the printer’s settings within the printing app or the device’s system settings. The specific steps may vary depending on your mobile operating system and printing app.
Q: What if I forget the original printer name?
A: If you’ve forgotten the original printer name, you can try identifying it through your network settings or by checking the printer’s display. You might also find the name listed in your computer’s printer settings or within the printer’s manual.
Q: Can I change the printer name to something already in use on the network?
A: No, you cannot use a name that is already assigned to another device on your network. The system will prevent duplicate names to avoid confusion and ensure proper communication.
Q: Will changing the printer name affect its functionality?
A: Changing the printer name will not affect its functionality. The printer will continue to print and operate as usual. However, you may need to update the printer name on other devices that use it.
Q: Is it possible to change the printer name without connecting it to a computer?
A: In some cases, you may be able to change the printer name directly from the printer’s control panel. However, this option is not available for all models. Check your printer’s manual for specific instructions.
