What To Know
- This comprehensive guide will walk you through the different methods of how to get the IP address of your Brother printer, making it a breeze, even for tech novices.
- If you can’t find the IP address through the above methods, a network scanner tool can help.
- If you’re using a wired connection, ensure the Ethernet cable is securely plugged into both the printer and your router.
Finding your Brother printer’s IP address is a crucial step for various reasons, from setting up wireless printing to troubleshooting network connectivity issues. But navigating the technical jargon can feel daunting. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the different methods of how to get the IP address of your Brother printer, making it a breeze, even for tech novices.
Why Do You Need Your Brother Printer’s IP Address?
Before diving into the methods, let’s understand why knowing your printer’s IP address is essential:
- Wireless Printing: Your computer needs to know the printer’s IP address to connect to it wirelessly.
- Network Troubleshooting: If your printer isn’t printing, knowing its IP address helps pinpoint the issue.
- Remote Access: Some Brother printers allow remote access and management, requiring you to input the IP address.
- Advanced Settings: Accessing your printer’s settings often involves using its IP address.
Method 1: Checking the Printer’s LCD Display
Many Brother printers display their IP address directly on the LCD screen.
1. Power on your printer: Ensure it’s connected to your network.
2. Check the LCD display: Look for a screen displaying network information. The IP address is usually labelled as “IP Address,” “Network Address,” or similar.
3. Note the IP address: Write down the address for future reference.
Method 2: Brother’s Control Center
Brother’s Control Center software, available for Windows and Mac, offers a convenient way to find your printer’s IP address.
1. Open Brother Control Center: Find it in your Start menu (Windows) or Applications folder (Mac).
2. Select your printer: If multiple Brother printers are connected, choose the one you need.
3. Check the “Network” tab: This tab usually displays the printer’s IP address.
Method 3: Windows Network Settings
Windows provides a built-in tool to view connected devices, including your Brother printer.
1. Open the “Network and Sharing Center“: Search for it in the Windows search bar.
2. Click “View active networks“: This will open a list of connected devices.
3. Identify your printer: Look for the name of your Brother printer.
4. Right-click on the printer name: Select “Properties” from the menu.
5. View the “General” tab: The IP address will be listed under “Network Address.”
Method 4: Mac Network Settings
Similar to Windows, macOS also provides a way to view network information.
1. Open “System Preferences“: Click the Apple icon in the top left corner and select “System Preferences.”
2. Choose “Network”: Click on the “Network” icon.
3. Select your Wi-Fi connection: Click on the Wi-Fi network your printer is connected to.
4. Click “Advanced”: This opens a window with advanced network settings.
5. Choose the “TCP/IP” tab: The IP address of your printer will be listed under “Router.”
Method 5: Using a Network Scanner
If you can’t find the IP address through the above methods, a network scanner tool can help.
1. Download a network scanner: Popular options include Advanced IP Scanner (Windows) and Fing (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS).
2. Run the scanner: Follow the instructions provided by the software.
3. Search for your printer: The scanner will display a list of devices on your network. Look for your Brother printer‘s name.
4. Identify the IP address: The scanner will show the IP address associated with your printer.
Method 6: Checking Your Router’s Settings
Your router’s settings page often lists all the connected devices, including your Brother printer.
1. Access your router’s settings page: Open a web browser and enter your router’s IP address (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
2. Enter your router’s login credentials: Use the username and password you set up for your router.
3. Navigate to the device list: This section might be labelled “Connected Devices,” “LAN Clients,” or similar.
4. Find your printer: Look for the name of your Brother printer in the list.
5. Note the IP address: The IP address will be listed next to the printer’s name.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you’re still having trouble finding your Brother printer’s IP address, consider these troubleshooting steps:
- Restart your printer and router: Sometimes a simple restart can resolve network connectivity issues.
- Check your network cable: If you’re using a wired connection, ensure the Ethernet cable is securely plugged into both the printer and your router.
- Ensure the printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network: If you’re using a wireless connection, make sure your printer and computer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Update your printer’s firmware: Outdated firmware can sometimes cause network issues. Check Brother’s website for the latest firmware updates for your printer model.
- Contact Brother support: If none of these steps work, reach out to Brother’s technical support for assistance.
Beyond the IP Address: Next Steps
Once you’ve successfully found your Brother printer‘s IP address, you can use it for various purposes, including:
- Setting up wireless printing: Use the IP address to connect your computer to the printer wirelessly.
- Troubleshooting printing problems: Identify potential network issues by checking the printer’s status.
- Accessing advanced settings: Adjust print quality, paper settings, and other features through the printer’s web interface.
The Final Word: Unlocking Your Printer’s Potential
Knowing your Brother printer‘s IP address is a fundamental step in managing your printing experience. Whether you’re setting up a new printer, troubleshooting an issue, or accessing advanced features, this guide provides a comprehensive roadmap for finding your IP address with ease.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: My printer doesn‘t have an LCD display. How can I find its IP address?
A: If your printer lacks an LCD display, you can use the other methods described in this guide, such as Brother’s Control Center, Windows/Mac network settings, or a network scanner.
Q: What if I can’t find my printer in the network settings or scanner?
A: Ensure your printer is powered on and properly connected to your network. If it still doesn’t appear, try restarting your router and printer. If the issue persists, contact Brother support for further assistance.
Q: Is it safe to use a network scanner?
A: Reputable network scanners are generally safe. However, it’s always a good idea to download them from trusted sources and be aware of any permissions they request.
Q: Can I change my printer’s IP address?
A: You can change your printer’s IP address through its settings or your router’s settings page. However, this should only be done if you have a specific reason, as it can affect network connectivity.
