If your Brother printer has no IP address, it cannot communicate over a network. This issue often points to problems with the network connection, router settings, or printer configuration. Here are the steps to resolve it.
Check the Printer’s Network Connection
Verify Wireless or Wired Connection
- If using Wi-Fi: Ensure the printer is within range of the router and not in “offline” or “sleep” mode.
- If using Ethernet: Confirm the cable is securely connected and not damaged.
Reconnect to Wi-Fi Network
- On the printer control panel, go to Network > WLAN > Setup Wizard.
- Select your Wi-Fi network and enter the correct password.
Check the Printer’s IP Address Assignment
Print a Network Configuration Report
- Use the control panel to print the report:
- Menu > Print Reports > Network Configuration.
- Check if an IP address is listed. If blank or showing 0.0.0.0, the printer is not getting one from the router.
Enable DHCP
- On the printer, go to Menu > Network > TCP/IP > BOOT Method > Select “Auto” or “DHCP”.
- Restart the printer to request a new IP address from the router.
Restart Network Devices
- Power cycle the router, modem, and printer:
- Turn off all devices for 30 seconds, then power them on starting with the modem, then router, then printer.
Assign a Static IP Address
Set a Manual IP on the Printer
- Go to Menu > Network > TCP/IP > IP Address.
- Disable DHCP and manually enter an available IP address in your network’s range (e.g., 192.168.1.200).
- Enter the correct Subnet Mask (usually 255.255.255.0) and Gateway (usually your router IP, like 192.168.1.1).
Confirm Router DHCP Settings
- Log into your router settings from a browser (typically at 192.168.1.1).
- Ensure DHCP is enabled.
- Check the list of connected devices-your Brother printer should appear with an IP.
- Reserve an IP for the printer to prevent future conflicts.
Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers
- Visit Brother’s official support website and download the latest driver for your printer model.
- During installation, choose the network connection type and select the correct IP address if prompted.
Use Brother Printer Software to Detect IP
- Install and run the Brother Printer Connection Repair Tool or Brother iPrint&Scan utility.
- These tools can scan your network and help assign or locate the IP address.
Reset Network Settings on the Printer
- If the printer continues to fail to obtain an IP, reset the network settings:
- Menu > Network > Network Reset.
- After reset, rerun the wireless or wired setup.
Check Firewall or Security Software
- On the computer, temporarily disable any firewall or antivirus software that might block the printer’s network traffic.
- Add exceptions or allow rules for Brother printer services if the IP becomes visible after disabling.
Update Printer Firmware
- If none of the above steps work, outdated firmware could be the cause.
- Download the latest firmware updater from Brother’s website and follow the instructions using a USB cable.
Following these steps will help your Brother printer obtain or be assigned an IP address so it can reconnect to the network properly.