What To Know
- Connecting your Brother MFC-J491DW to Wi-Fi involves establishing a communication link between your printer and your wireless router.
- Ensure your router is broadcasting your Wi-Fi network and that your network name is correctly displayed on the printer’s screen.
- Ensure your computer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network you want to connect your printer to.
Connecting your Brother MFC-J491DW printer to Wi-Fi is a crucial step to unlocking its full functionality. This multi-function printer, with its capabilities for printing, scanning, copying, and faxing, becomes truly versatile when seamlessly integrated into your wireless network. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring a smooth and successful connection.
Understanding the Connection Process
Connecting your Brother MFC-J491DW to Wi-Fi involves establishing a communication link between your printer and your wireless router. This allows the printer to access the internet, print documents from your computer or mobile device, and even share files wirelessly. The process typically involves two main steps:
1. Preparing Your Printer: This involves enabling Wi-Fi on your printer and locating the network settings.
2. Connecting to Your Network: This step requires entering your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password on the printer’s control panel.
Essential Prerequisites
Before you begin the connection process, ensure you have the following:
- Your Brother MFC-J491DW printer: Make sure your printer is powered on and ready for setup.
- Your wireless router: Your router should be operational and broadcasting your Wi-Fi network.
- Your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password: You will need this information to connect your printer to your network.
- A computer or mobile device: You’ll need a device connected to your Wi-Fi network to guide you through the setup process.
Connecting Your Brother MFC-J491DW to Wi-Fi: Step-by-Step
1. Power On Your Printer: Make sure your printer is turned on and ready.
2. Access the Wireless Settings: On your printer’s control panel, navigate to the Wireless settings. This is usually done by pressing the “Wireless” or “Wi-Fi” button.
3. Choose “Wireless Setup Wizard“: Select the “Wireless Setup Wizard” or a similar option to initiate the connection process.
4. Select Your Wi-Fi Network: The printer will scan for available Wi-Fi networks. Choose your network from the list displayed.
5. Enter Your Wi-Fi Password: When prompted, carefully enter your Wi-Fi network password using the printer’s keypad.
6. Confirm and Connect: Confirm your settings and allow the printer to connect to your network.
Troubleshooting Common Connection Issues
While the process is generally straightforward, you might encounter some issues during the connection process. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
- Printer Not Finding Your Network: Ensure your router is broadcasting your Wi-Fi network and that your network name is correctly displayed on the printer’s screen. You may need to restart your router or check your router settings.
- Incorrect Wi-Fi Password: Double-check that you have entered the correct password. Incorrect passwords can prevent the printer from connecting.
- Weak Wi-Fi Signal: If your router is far from the printer, or there are obstacles between them, the signal might be too weak. Consider moving your router closer to the printer or using a Wi-Fi extender.
- Outdated Firmware: Ensure your printer’s firmware is up-to-date. Outdated firmware can sometimes cause connection issues. Visit Brother’s website for the latest firmware updates.
Connecting Your Brother MFC-J491DW to Wi-Fi Using a Computer
If you prefer using a computer for the connection process, follow these steps:
1. Connect Your Computer to Your Wi-Fi Network: Ensure your computer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network you want to connect your printer to.
2. Download and Install the Brother Software: Go to Brother’s website and download the latest software for your MFC-J491DW printer. This software includes the necessary drivers and utilities for setting up your printer.
3. Run the Installation: Run the downloaded software and follow the on-screen instructions. The software will guide you through the connection process and automatically detect your printer.
4. Select “Wireless Connection“: Choose the “Wireless Connection” option during the installation process.
5. Enter Your Wi-Fi Network Details: Enter your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password when prompted.
6. Complete the Setup: Follow the remaining steps in the installation process to complete the connection.
Connecting Your Brother MFC-J491DW to Wi-Fi Using a Mobile Device
Connecting your Brother MFC-J491DW to Wi-Fi using a mobile device is a convenient option. Follow these steps:
1. Download the Brother iPrint&Scan App: Download the Brother iPrint&Scan app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
2. Connect Your Mobile Device to Your Wi-Fi Network: Ensure your mobile device is connected to the same Wi-Fi network you want to connect your printer to.
3. Open the iPrint&Scan App: Launch the Brother iPrint&Scan app on your mobile device.
4. Select “Add a New Device”: Choose the “Add a New Device” option within the app.
5. Select Your Printer Model: Select your Brother MFC-J491DW printer from the list of available devices.
6. Follow the On-Screen Instructions: The app will guide you through the remaining steps, including entering your Wi-Fi network details.
Final Thoughts: Unlocking the Power of Wireless Printing
Connecting your Brother MFC-J491DW to Wi-Fi opens up a world of possibilities. You can now print documents, scan images, and copy files wirelessly from your computer, mobile device, or even cloud storage services. The convenience and flexibility of wireless printing will significantly enhance your productivity and workflow.
What People Want to Know
Q: What if my printer doesn‘t appear in the list of available networks?
A: Ensure your router is broadcasting your Wi-Fi network and that the network name is correctly displayed on the printer’s screen. You may need to restart your router or check your router settings.
Q: Can I connect my printer to multiple Wi-Fi networks?
A: While you can connect your printer to multiple Wi-Fi networks, it’s generally recommended to connect to one network at a time for optimal performance and stability.
Q: Can I use my Brother MFC-J491DW to print from a cloud service like Google Drive?
A: Yes, you can use your printer to print from cloud services like Google Drive by using the Brother iPrint&Scan app or the Brother Cloud Print service.
Q: What if I forget my Wi-Fi password?
A: If you forget your Wi-Fi password, you’ll need to reset your router to its factory settings. This will erase all network settings, including your password. You can then set up your network again and connect your printer.
Q: What is the best way to ensure a stable Wi-Fi connection for my printer?
A: Place your printer closer to your router to minimize signal interference. Avoid placing the printer near other electronic devices that emit radio frequencies. Consider using a Wi-Fi extender if your router’s signal is weak in the area where your printer is located.
