Connecting your Brother MFC-J470DW printer to Wi-Fi can significantly enhance your printing experience, allowing you to print from multiple devices without the clutter of cables. Whether you want to print from your laptop, smartphone, or tablet, this guide will walk you through the entire process, ensuring that you can enjoy wireless printing in no time.
Understanding Your Brother MFC-J470DW Printer
The Brother MFC-J470DW is a multifunction printer known for its efficiency and high-quality output. With the ability to print, scan, copy, and fax documents, it’s a popular choice for both home and office use. One of its standout features is the capability to connect to Wi-Fi, which facilitates easy printing from various devices.
Preparation for Wi-Fi Connection
Before diving into the connection process, it’s essential to ensure that everything is in order.
Gather Necessary Items
To successfully connect your Brother printer to Wi-Fi, you will need:
- Your Brother MFC-J470DW printer
- A stable Wi-Fi network
- The network name (SSID) and password
- A computer or mobile device to facilitate the connection
Check Printer Specifications
Ensure that your printer is compatible with your Wi-Fi network by checking its specifications. The Brother MFC-J470DW supports 802.11b/g/n, making it versatile enough for most home and office networks.
Connecting the Brother MFC-J470DW to Wi-Fi
The process of connecting your printer to Wi-Fi can be carried out in several ways, including using the control panel of the printer, the software on your computer, or through the Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS). Below, we will explore these methods in detail.
Method 1: Using the Printer’s Control Panel
Connecting through the control panel is a straightforward method. Follow these steps to successfully connect your Brother MFC-J470DW to Wi-Fi:
Step 1: Power On the Printer
Make sure your printer is plugged in and turned on. Wait for it to complete its start-up process.
Step 2: Access the Menu
- Press the Menu button on the printer’s control panel.
- Use the arrow keys to navigate to Network and press OK.
Step 3: Select Wi-Fi Setup
- Navigate to WLAN and press OK.
- Choose Setup Wizard and press OK.
Step 4: Choose Your Network
- The printer will search for available networks. When it completes the search, a list of networks will appear.
- Use the arrow keys to find your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and press OK.
Step 5: Enter the Wi-Fi Password
- You will be prompted to enter your Wi-Fi password. Use the control panel’s keypad to input the password carefully—this is case-sensitive.
- After entering the password, press OK to confirm.
Step 6: Confirm Connection
The printer will attempt to connect to the network. If successful, the control panel will display a confirmation message. You can print a network configuration page to confirm the connection details.
Method 2: Using WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)
If your router supports WPS, this method is even easier and faster.
Step 1: Enable WPS on Your Router
Locate the WPS button on your router and press it. This button is usually found on the front or back panel.
Step 2: Access the Printer’s Control Panel
- Turn on the printer and kindly access the Menu from the control panel.
- Select Network and then WLAN.
Step 3: Activate WPS on the Printer
- In the WLAN menu, select WPS Wizard and press OK.
- Choose Push Button and press OK.
Step 4: Complete the Connection
The printer and router will communicate and establish a connection. Once connected, you will receive a confirmation on your printer’s display.
Method 3: Using the Printer Software
You can also use the printer software installed on your computer to connect your Brother MFC-J470DW to Wi-Fi. Here’s how:
Step 1: Install the Software
If you haven’t already, install the Brother Printer Driver and Software from the Brother website. Ensure that you choose the version compatible with your operating system.
Step 2: Open the Printer Setup Wizard
Once installed, open the Brother Printer Setup Wizard from your computer.
Step 3: Choose Your Connection Type
Select the option for Network Connection when prompted, then choose Wireless Connection.
Step 4: Follow the On-Screen Instructions
The wizard will guide you through the process. You will be required to choose your Wi-Fi network and enter the password just as you would in the control panel method.
Post-Connection: Testing Your Printer
Once connected, it’s important to confirm that your printer is functioning properly over Wi-Fi.
Step 1: Print a Test Page
- On your computer, go to Devices and Printers.
- Right-click on the Brother MFC-J470DW printer icon.
- Select Printer Properties and then click on Print Test Page.
Step 2: Troubleshooting Connection Issues
If you encounter any issues while connecting, refer to the following troubleshooting tips:
- Check Network Status: Ensure your Wi-Fi network is active and working correctly.
- Reboot Your Printer and Router: Sometimes, a simple restart resolves connectivity issues.
- Re-enter Network Credentials: Double-check the SSID and password for discrepancies.
Benefits of Connecting Your Brother MFC-J470DW to Wi-Fi
Once you’ve successfully connected your Brother printer to Wi-Fi, you can enjoy several benefits:
- Convenience: Print from anywhere in your home or office without needing a direct connection.
- Multiple Device Support: Connect numerous devices like laptops, smartphones, and tablets seamlessly.
Final Considerations
In a world where convenience is key, having the ability to print wirelessly from multiple devices is a game-changer. Following the methods outlined above, you can effortlessly connect your Brother MFC-J470DW printer to your Wi-Fi network.
Always ensure that you keep your printer software updated for optimal performance and troubleshooting support. Should you encounter persistent issues, consider referencing the Brother support site or the printer manual for additional guidance.
Wireless printing is an investment in practicality that enhances productivity and simplifies everyday tasks. With just a few simple steps, you’re all set to print effortlessly with your Brother MFC-J470DW printer connected to Wi-Fi. Enjoy a clutter-free printing experience that meets the demands of modern-day living.
What are the system requirements to connect the Brother MFC-J470DW printer to Wi-Fi?
The Brother MFC-J470DW printer is compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. Before attempting to connect your printer to Wi-Fi, ensure that your computer or device meets the necessary system requirements. For Windows, you should have at least Windows 7 or later, while macOS users should be on version OS X 10.6 or later. Additionally, make sure your wireless router is operational and supports the 2.4GHz frequency band, as this is essential for maintaining a stable connection.
You will also need to have your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password on hand during the setup process. It’s recommended to place your printer within the range of your wireless router to ensure a strong signal. Check for any software updates for your printer model, as these updates could enhance connectivity and performance.
How do I start the Wi-Fi setup on my Brother MFC-J470DW printer?
To initiate the Wi-Fi setup on your Brother MFC-J470DW printer, first power on the device and then press the ‘Menu’ button on the printer’s control panel. Use the arrow keys to navigate to the ‘Network’ option, and then press ‘OK’. From this menu, select ‘WLAN’ followed by ‘Setup Wizard’. Your printer will now search for available wireless networks.
Once the list of networks appears on the screen, select your Wi-Fi network and press ‘OK’. You will then be prompted to enter your Wi-Fi password using the printer’s keypad. After entering the password, confirm the settings, and the printer will attempt to connect to your network. A confirmation message will appear if the connection is successful.
What should I do if my Brother MFC-J470DW printer cannot find my Wi-Fi network?
If your Brother MFC-J470DW printer is unable to detect your Wi-Fi network, check to see if your router is powered on and functioning properly. Ensure that the printer is within the range of the router and that there are no physical obstructions that could affect the Wi-Fi signal. It may help to temporarily place the printer closer to the router as a diagnostic step.
Additionally, verify that your Wi-Fi network is active and broadcasting its SSID. If you have hidden your network, the printer will not be able to detect it. You may need to connect the printer using the WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) method or manually input the network details if your network is hidden. Consult your router’s manual to check how to enable broadcasting for your SSID.
Can I connect my Brother MFC-J470DW printer to a secured Wi-Fi network?
Yes, the Brother MFC-J470DW printer is capable of connecting to secured Wi-Fi networks that use either WEP, WPA, or WPA2 encryption. During the setup process, you will be prompted to enter your Wi-Fi password, which is essential for connecting to a secured network. Ensure you have the correct password available for a successful connection.
If you’re using WPS to connect, make sure that your router supports this feature. WPS allows you to establish a connection without entering a password manually. Simply press the WPS button on your router and select the WPS option on your printer to connect to your secured network seamlessly.
How can I check if my Brother MFC-J470DW printer is successfully connected to Wi-Fi?
To check if your Brother MFC-J470DW printer is successfully connected to Wi-Fi, print a network configuration page directly from the printer. To do this, access the printer’s menu by pressing the ‘Menu’ button, navigate to ‘Print Reports’, and select ‘Network Config’. This report provides detailed information about the network status and includes the current IP address of your printer.
Another way to confirm the connection is to attempt to print a document from your computer or mobile device. If the print job is completed without errors, your printer is successfully connected to Wi-Fi. Additionally, you can check the printer’s control panel for any connectivity status messages that may indicate whether the printer is online or offline.
What should I do if my Brother MFC-J470DW printer keeps disconnecting from Wi-Fi?
If your Brother MFC-J470DW printer frequently disconnects from Wi-Fi, start by ensuring that your wireless network is stable and has a strong signal. Check the placement of your router and printer; they should be within an appropriate range. If multiple devices are connected to your Wi-Fi network, consider reducing the load, as this might improve overall connectivity stability.
It’s also advisable to update the printer’s firmware. Many connectivity issues can be resolved through firmware updates that enhance performance and fix bugs. You can check for updates via the Brother website or through the printer’s menu. If issues persist, resetting your network settings and reconnecting your printer to Wi-Fi may be necessary to establish a more reliable connection.
Can I connect my Brother MFC-J470DW printer to Wi-Fi without a computer?
Yes, you can connect your Brother MFC-J470DW printer to Wi-Fi without a computer by using the printer’s built-in control panel. The printer supports wireless configuration, allowing you to set up a Wi-Fi connection directly from the device itself. This can be done using the ‘WLAN’ setup wizard, as previously mentioned, enabling you to enter the network details directly on the printer.
Alternatively, you can use a mobile device or smartphone with the Brother iPrint&Scan app. This app allows you to manage and connect your printer wirelessly without requiring a computer. Simply download the app, follow the prompts for network configuration, and you can print documents directly from your mobile device, making the process user-friendly and convenient.