Setting up your Brother MFC-L2700DW printer for wireless printing can transform the way you manage your printing tasks—eliminating messy cables and enabling you to print from any corner of your home or office. This guide will walk you through the various methods of connecting your Brother printer to Wi-Fi, ensuring that you have a seamless experience.
Understanding the Brother MFC-L2700DW
Before we dive into the connection process, it’s crucial to understand the features of the Brother MFC-L2700DW printer. This compact multifunction printer is known for its exceptional print quality, fast printing speed, and a variety of functionalities, including scanning, copying, and faxing. Its wireless capabilities allow easy integration into your home network, providing convenience and flexibility.
Key Features of the Brother MFC-L2700DW:
- Print speeds of up to 27 pages per minute
- Automatic duplex printing to reduce paper usage
- Wireless and mobile printing capabilities
- High-yield toner options for cost efficiency
Knowing these features can help you appreciate the value this printer brings, especially when it is connected to Wi-Fi.
Preparations Before Connecting to Wi-Fi
Before starting the connection process, ensure that you have the following ready:
1. Wireless Network Information: Know the SSID (network name) and password of your Wi-Fi network.
2. Printer Location: Choose a location where the printer can receive a strong Wi-Fi signal to avoid connectivity issues.
3. Access to the Printer Control Panel: Familiarize yourself with the printer’s control panel, as many steps require navigating through it.
Method 1: Connecting via the Printer Control Panel
One of the simplest ways to connect your Brother MFC-L2700DW printer to Wi-Fi is by using the control panel. Here’s how you can do it:
Step-by-Step Guide to Connect via Control Panel
- Power On the Printer: Make sure your printer is plugged in and turned on.
- Access the Menu: Go to the printer’s control panel and press the Menu button.
- Navigate to Network: Use the arrow keys to scroll down to the Network option and press OK.
- Select WLAN: Scroll to WLAN and press OK. Then select Setup Wizard and press OK.
- Enable WLAN: When prompted to enable WLAN, select Yes.
- Select Your Network: The printer will search for available wireless networks. Choose your Wi-Fi SSID from the list.
- Enter Password: When prompted, enter your Wi-Fi password using the alphanumeric keypad. Make sure to enter it correctly and press OK.
- Confirmation: Wait for the printer to connect to the network. Once connected, a confirmation message will appear.
Congratulations! Your Brother MFC-L2700DW is now connected to your Wi-Fi network.
Method 2: Connecting Using the Brother iPrint&Scan App
If you prefer to use your smartphone or tablet for the connection process, the Brother iPrint&Scan app offers a convenient alternative. This app allows you to print and scan documents wirelessly and is available for both Android and iOS devices.
Using the Brother iPrint&Scan App
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Download the App: Visit the Google Play Store or Apple App Store to download the Brother iPrint&Scan app.
- Open the App: Launch the app, and make sure your smartphone or tablet is connected to the same Wi-Fi network that you want the printer on.
- Add Printer: Go to the Printers section within the app and tap on Add Printer. The app will search for the Brother printers on the network.
- Select Your Printer: Once you see the Brother MFC-L2700DW listed, select it.
- Follow Instructions: If prompted, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup. Ensure you are working with the correct network information.
By using the Brother iPrint&Scan app, you simplify the connection process, making it user-friendly and adaptable to your needs.
Troubleshooting Common Connection Issues
Sometimes, despite following all procedures, you may encounter connectivity issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
1. Printer Not Found During Setup
If your printer does not appear in the list of available devices, ensure that:
- The printer is powered on and in an online status.
- Your device (computer, smartphone, etc.) is connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- The printer is within range of the router to receive a good signal.
2. Incorrect Wi-Fi Password
If you receive an error message about the password:
- Double-check for typo errors, capital letters, and special characters.
- Ensure that you are using the correct password associated with the current network.
3. Printer Does Not Print After Connecting
If your printer connects to Wi-Fi but won’t print:
- Restart both your printer and your computer or mobile device.
- Check if you have selected the Brother MFC-L2700DW as your default printer.
- Make sure the printer is not set to Offline Mode through your device settings.
Alternative Connection Method: WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)
If your router supports WPS functionality, this method can make connecting to Wi-Fi even simpler.
Connecting via WPS
Here’s how you can connect using WPS:
- Locate WPS Button: Find the WPS button on your Wi-Fi router.
- Access Menu on Printer: Press the Menu button on your printer, go to the Network menu, and select WLAN.
- Select WPS: Choose the WPS option and press OK.
- Press WPS Button: Within two minutes, press the WPS button on your router.
- Confirmation: Wait for a confirmation message on your printer indicating it is connected.
Using WPS can be the quickest way to link your Brother printer to your Wi-Fi network.
Final Adjustments and Testing
After completing the connection, it’s wise to conduct a print test to confirm that everything functions correctly. Here’s how to do that:
Performing a Test Print
- Open a document or image you would like to print.
- Select the Print option from the menu.
- Choose the Brother MFC-L2700DW as your printer.
- Adjust any necessary settings, and then hit the Print button.
If your test prints successfully, congratulations! You are ready to take advantage of the wireless printing capabilities offered by your Brother MFC-L2700DW printer.
Maintaining Your Printer Connection
Once connected to Wi-Fi, it is essential to maintain that connection for seamless printing in the future. Here are some strong practices to consider:
1. Regularly Update Printer Firmware: Keeping your printer’s firmware up-to-date ensures compatibility with network standards, potentially solving connectivity issues.
2. Monitor Signal Strength: Ensure the printer stays within a reasonable range of the Wi-Fi router to maintain a strong connection.
3. Manage Network Settings: Familiarize yourself with your router settings, as changes in the network (like changing passwords) could disrupt the printer connection.
Conclusion
Connecting your Brother MFC-L2700DW printer to Wi-Fi opens the door to effortless wireless printing, making everyday tasks more efficient. By following this step-by-step guide, you can confidently set up your printer and troubleshoot common issues as they arise. Remember to explore all the features your printer offers, including mobile printing with the iPrint&Scan app, and enjoy the flexibility that comes with wireless capabilities.
With everything set up and successfully connected, you’ll be on your way to a more organized and productive printing experience. Embrace the technology, and enjoy the convenience that comes from the wireless world!
What do I need to connect my Brother MFC-L2700DW printer to Wi-Fi?
To connect your Brother MFC-L2700DW printer to Wi-Fi, you will need a wireless network with an active internet connection. Make sure you have the network name (SSID) and password readily available. Additionally, a computer or mobile device with the Brother printer software installed will help facilitate the setup process.
You will also need to ensure that your printer is turned on and that it is close to your Wi-Fi router during the setup to avoid connectivity issues. Having the printer’s user manual handy may also be beneficial for troubleshooting any potential problems that may arise during the configuration.
How do I initiate the Wi-Fi setup on my Brother printer?
To initiate the Wi-Fi setup on your Brother MFC-L2700DW, you first need to turn on the printer. Then, press the Menu button on the printer’s control panel. Use the arrow keys to navigate to the “Network” option and press “OK.” From there, select “WLAN” and press “OK” again to access the wireless settings.
Next, choose “Setup Wizard” and select “Yes” when prompted. The printer will begin searching for available networks. Once your network appears on the list, select it and enter the password. After a successful connection, the printer will display a confirmation message.
Can I connect my Brother MFC-L2700DW printer to a hidden Wi-Fi network?
Yes, you can connect your Brother MFC-L2700DW printer to a hidden Wi-Fi network. Start by following the same initial steps for connecting to a Wi-Fi network. When you reach the screen displaying available networks, you’ll need to enter your network name manually since it won’t be visible.
To do this, navigate to the option that allows you to add a new SSID. Input your network name accurately, using uppercase and lowercase letters where necessary. After entering the name, proceed to enter your Wi-Fi password. Once the inputs are verified, the printer should connect to your hidden network.
What if my Brother printer cannot find my Wi-Fi network?
If your Brother MFC-L2700DW cannot find your Wi-Fi network, first ensure that the printer is within an appropriate range of the router. It may help to temporarily move the printer closer to the router during the setup process. Additionally, check that your router is powered on and that the wireless function is enabled.
If the network is still not detected, consider rebooting both the printer and the router. Make sure that the Wi-Fi network is working with other devices, such as a smartphone or a laptop. If issues persist, you may also want to check if your router has the capability to support your printer, particularly in terms of frequency bands (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz).
Do I need to install software to connect the printer to Wi-Fi?
While you can connect the Brother MFC-L2700DW to Wi-Fi using the printer’s control panel, installing the appropriate software follows this step to ensure proper functionality. The Brother printer driver and software include essential components for device management and printing tasks over the network.
To install the necessary software, visit the Brother support website to download the latest drivers compatible with your operating system. Follow the installation instructions provided, and once completed, your printer should be fully functioning over your Wi-Fi network.
How can I print from my smartphone or tablet after connecting to Wi-Fi?
After successfully connecting your Brother MFC-L2700DW printer to Wi-Fi, printing from your smartphone or tablet is straightforward. First, ensure that your mobile device is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your printer. You can use various applications compatible with Brother printers, such as the Brother iPrint&Scan app.
Download and install the app from your device’s app store, then open it and follow the prompts to locate your printer. Once connected, you can choose documents or images to print directly from your smartphone or tablet, allowing for seamless printing from anywhere in your home or office.
What should I do if the printer is connected to Wi-Fi but is not printing?
If your Brother MFC-L2700DW printer is connected to Wi-Fi but not printing, start by checking the status of your printer. Ensure that the printer is turned on and that all necessary cables are properly connected. Additionally, check for any error messages or warning lights on the printer’s display.
If the printer appears to be ready but still isn’t printing, try restarting both the printer and the computer or device from which you are attempting to print. Make sure that the correct printer is selected in your computer’s print dialogue. If the issue continues, consider reinstalling the printer drivers or checking the printer’s network settings to confirm it is connected to the correct network.