What To Know
- Or perhaps you’re trying to set up a new network and need to assign a specific IP address to your printer.
- An IP address is a unique numerical label assigned to every device connected to a network, like your printer, computer, or smartphone.
- Use the numeric keys on the control panel to input the new IP address you want to assign.
Are you struggling to connect your Brother HL-2270DW printer to your network? Or perhaps you’re trying to set up a new network and need to assign a specific IP address to your printer. Whatever the reason, changing the IP address on your Brother HL-2270DW can be a necessary step. This guide will walk you through the process, providing clear instructions for both wired and wireless connections.
Understanding IP Addresses
Before we dive into the steps, let’s quickly understand what an IP address is and why it’s important. An IP address is a unique numerical label assigned to every device connected to a network, like your printer, computer, or smartphone. It allows these devices to communicate with each other and access the internet.
Method 1: Changing IP Address via the Printer’s Control Panel
This method is suitable for both wired and wireless connections.
1. Power On Your Printer: Ensure your Brother HL-2270DW printer is powered on and connected to your network.
2. Access the Network Settings: Locate the “Network” or “Wireless” button on your printer’s control panel. Press it to access the network settings menu.
3. Navigate to IP Address Settings: Use the arrow keys on the control panel to navigate to the “IP Address” or “Network Settings” section. The specific menu names may vary slightly based on your printer’s firmware version.
4. Enter the New IP Address: You’ll be presented with the current IP address assigned to your printer. Use the numeric keys on the control panel to input the new IP address you want to assign. Ensure you enter a valid IP address within the range of your network.
5. Confirm and Save: After entering the new IP address, confirm your changes and save them. The exact process for confirming and saving may differ slightly depending on your printer’s model. Refer to your printer’s user manual for specific instructions.
6. Test the Connection: Once you’ve saved the new IP address, try printing a test page to ensure your printer is communicating properly with the network.
Method 2: Changing IP Address Using the Brother iPrint&Scan App
This method is primarily useful for wireless connections.
1. Download the Brother iPrint&Scan App: Download the Brother iPrint&Scan app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. This app allows you to manage your Brother printer wirelessly from your smartphone or tablet.
2. Connect to Your Printer: Open the Brother iPrint&Scan app and connect it to your Brother HL-2270DW printer. The app will scan for nearby printers and guide you through the pairing process.
3. Access Printer Settings: Once connected, you can access various printer settings within the app. Look for a “Network” or “Wireless” section.
4. Change the IP Address: Within the network settings, you should find an option to change the IP address. Enter the new IP address you want to use and confirm your changes.
5. Test the Connection: After changing the IP address, print a test page to verify that your printer is communicating properly with your network.
Method 3: Changing IP Address Using the Brother ControlCenter Software
This method is for wired connections and requires the Brother ControlCenter software installed on your computer.
1. Install Brother ControlCenter: If you haven’t already, download and install the Brother ControlCenter software from the Brother website. This software provides a user-friendly interface for managing your Brother printer.
2. Open Brother ControlCenter: Launch the Brother ControlCenter software on your computer.
3. Access Network Settings: Within the Brother ControlCenter window, locate the “Network” or “Wireless” settings. This section will allow you to configure your printer’s network connections.
4. Change the IP Address: Find the option to change the IP address. Enter the new IP address you want to use and confirm your changes.
5. Test the Connection: After changing the IP address, print a test page to ensure your printer is connected to your network.
Important Considerations When Changing IP Address
- Static vs. Dynamic IP Addresses: When changing your printer’s IP address, you have two options: static or dynamic. A static IP address is manually assigned and remains constant, while a dynamic IP address is automatically assigned by your router and can change over time. For consistent network connectivity, it’s generally recommended to use a static IP address for your printer.
- IP Address Range: Ensure that the new IP address you assign to your printer is within the range of your network. You can check your router’s settings to determine the valid IP address range.
- Network Conflicts: Avoid assigning the same IP address to multiple devices on your network. This can cause network conflicts and prevent devices from communicating properly.
- Firewall Settings: If you have a firewall enabled on your computer or network, ensure that it allows communication with the new IP address you assigned to your printer.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you encounter issues connecting your printer to your network after changing its IP address, consider these troubleshooting steps:
- Reboot Your Printer and Router: Sometimes a simple reboot can resolve network connectivity issues. Power off your printer and router, wait for a few minutes, and then power them back on.
- Check Network Cables: If you’re using a wired connection, ensure that the network cable is securely connected to both your printer and router.
- Verify Network Settings: Double-check that the new IP address you assigned to your printer is correct and within the valid range for your network.
- Contact Brother Support: If you’re still unable to connect your printer to your network, consider contacting Brother support for assistance.
Moving Forward: Enjoy Seamless Printing
Now that you’ve successfully changed the IP address on your Brother HL-2270DW printer, you can enjoy seamless printing and network connectivity. Remember to keep your printer’s firmware updated to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with your network.
What People Want to Know
Q: Can I use any IP address for my printer?
A: No, you need to use an IP address within the range assigned by your router. Check your router’s settings for the valid IP address range.
Q: What happens if I change the IP address and forget it?
A: If you forget the new IP address, you can usually find it in the printer’s network settings menu or by checking your router’s connected devices list.
Q: Should I change the IP address of my printer regularly?
A: Generally, there’s no need to change your printer’s IP address unless you’re experiencing network connectivity issues or are setting up a new network.
Q: Why is it important to assign a static IP address to my printer?
A: A static IP address ensures that your printer always has the same IP address, making it easier to connect to and manage. With a dynamic IP address, the address can change, potentially disrupting your network connectivity.
