The Brother MFC-L2690DW printer is renowned for its efficiency and impressive output quality, making it an excellent choice for both home and office environments. Connecting your MFC-L2690DW to Wi-Fi not only enhances its functionality but also allows you to print wirelessly from a variety of devices, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones. In this detailed guide, we will walk you through the process of setting up your MFC-L2690DW on a Wi-Fi network, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience. Let’s dive in!
Understanding the MFC-L2690DW
Before we start with the connection process, it’s essential to know a bit about the Brother MFC-L2690DW printer. This multifunctional device combines printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities. With features such as automatic duplex printing and a compact design, it’s perfect for any workspace. The ability to connect to Wi-Fi makes it an even more valuable tool, as it eliminates the need for pesky cables and allows multiple users to access the printer.
Preparing for Wi-Fi Connection
Before you move forward with the Wi-Fi connection, ensure you’ve gathered all the necessary information and equipment.
What You Will Need
Here’s what you will need to get started:
- Your Brother MFC-L2690DW printer
- Wi-Fi network name (SSID)
- Wi-Fi password or passphrase
- Computer or mobile device connected to the same Wi-Fi network
- USB cable (optional, for initial setup)
Checking Printer and Network Compatibility
Before establishing a connection, ensure that your Wi-Fi network is operational and that the printer is compatible with your network equipment. The MFC-L2690DW supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, but it’s typically easiest to connect to a 2.4 GHz network.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Connect MFC-L2690DW to Wi-Fi
Now that you are prepared, let’s proceed with connecting your Brother MFC-L2690DW to your Wi-Fi network.
Method 1: Wireless Setup Using the Control Panel
Follow these steps to configure the Wi-Fi settings using the printer’s control panel:
Step 1: Power On the Printer
Ensure that your MFC-L2690DW is plugged in and powered on. The power button should be illuminated, indicating that the printer is ready for use.
Step 2: Access the Menu
- On the printer’s control panel, press the Menu button.
- Use the arrow keys to navigate to the Network option and press OK.
Step 3: Select Wireless Setup
- Navigate to WLAN and press OK.
- Select Setup Wizard and press OK again.
Step 4: Choose Your Network
The printer will search for available wireless networks. Once the search is complete, select your Wi-Fi network from the list displayed on the screen and press OK.
Step 5: Enter Your Wi-Fi Password
Using the printer’s keypad, carefully enter your Wi-Fi password. Once you’ve entered the password, press OK.
Step 6: Confirm Connection
After entering the password, the printer will attempt to connect to the Wi-Fi network. A message will appear confirming your connection status. If successful, the screen will display “Connected.” If the connection fails, double-check your Wi-Fi password and network settings.
Method 2: Setup with USB Connection
If you encounter difficulties connecting via the control panel, you can set up the printer using a temporary USB connection.
Step 1: Install Printer Software
- Download the Brother printer software from the Brother support website.
- Connect the MFC-L2690DW to your computer using a USB cable.
Step 2: Follow the Installer Instructions
Run the software installer and follow the on-screen instructions. Select the connection type as Wireless Network Connection during the process.
Step 3: Choose Your Network
When prompted, select your Wi-Fi network and enter the Wi-Fi password to establish a connection.
Step 4: Finalize the Setup
Once the connection is established, unplug the USB cable, and your printer will be ready to use wirelessly.
Installing Printer Drivers
To ensure smooth operation and access to all printer features, installing the most recent printer drivers is crucial.
Downloading Drivers
- Visit the Brother support website.
- Enter your printer model (MFC-L2690DW) in the search field.
- Select the appropriate operating system from the drop-down menu.
- Download and install the recommended drivers.
Verifying Installation
After installing the drivers, print a test page to confirm that the printer is functioning correctly. The test page will also show you the connection status of your printer.
Troubleshooting Common Connection Issues
Even with careful steps, you may occasionally face issues when connecting your Brother MFC-L2690DW to Wi-Fi. Here are some common troubleshooting tips to consider:
Verify Network Signal Strength
Ensure that your printer is within range of your Wi-Fi router. If the signal is weak, consider relocating the router or the printer for a closer connection.
Double Check Your Password
A common issue is entering an incorrect Wi-Fi password. Confirm your Wi-Fi credentials by checking them on a connected device.
Restart Devices
Sometimes, a simple restart of the printer, router, or computer can fix connectivity issues. Turn off your printer, unplug it for a few seconds, power it back on, and check the network connection again.
Using Mobile Devices to Print Wirelessly
Once your MFC-L2690DW is successfully connected to Wi-Fi, you can also print directly from your smartphone or tablet using Brother’s iPrint&Scan app.
Downloading the App
- For iOS, visit the App Store.
- For Android, visit the Google Play Store.
- Search for and download the Brother iPrint&Scan app.
Setting Up the App
- Open the app on your mobile device.
- Follow the prompts to connect to your printer.
- Once connected, you can print documents, images, and webpages directly from your phone or tablet.
Maintaining Your Printer’s Connection
Now that your printer is connected, it’s essential to maintain that flawless connection.
Keeping Software Updated
Regularly check for updates to both your printer firmware and software drivers. This will help you take advantage of new features and security patches.
Securing Your Network
Ensure your Wi-Fi network is secure to protect against unauthorized access. Update your Wi-Fi password regularly and use WPA2 encryption for better security.
Conclusion
Connecting your Brother MFC-L2690DW printer to Wi-Fi opens a world of convenience and efficiency in your printing tasks. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can set up your printer without hassle, ensuring that you and your team can enjoy wireless printing capabilities. With regular maintenance, you’ll continue to leverage the features of your MFC-L2690DW printer, making it a reliable asset in your daily operations. Whether at home or in the office, wireless printing makes life easier, allowing you to focus on what truly matters. Happy printing!
What are the first steps to prepare my Brother MFC-L2690DW for Wi-Fi connection?
To prepare your Brother MFC-L2690DW for a Wi-Fi connection, begin by ensuring that the printer is powered on and that there’s paper in the tray. It’s also essential to have your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password handy, as you’ll need these to connect the printer to your network.
Next, navigate to the printer’s control panel. Use the arrow keys to select the “Network” menu, then choose “WLAN” and “Setup Wizard.” This wizard will guide you through the process of connecting your printer to your Wi-Fi network, making it an accommodating way for first-time users.
How can I access the printer’s network settings?
You can access the network settings of your Brother MFC-L2690DW by using the control panel. Start by pressing the “Menu” button, then scroll using the arrow keys to find “Network.” Press “OK” to select it. This will give you access to various networking options, including WLAN settings, which is where you’ll find the setup options for your Wi-Fi connection.
Once in the network settings, you can view your current network configuration and modify it if necessary. This is especially helpful for troubleshooting connection issues or verifying that you are connected to the correct Wi-Fi network.
What if my printer can’t find my Wi-Fi network?
If your Brother MFC-L2690DW can’t find your Wi-Fi network, first ensure that your Wi-Fi router is powered on and functioning correctly. Check if other devices can connect to the network to verify there are no widespread issues. If your network is functioning properly, consider moving the printer closer to the router temporarily to improve signal strength.
It may also be necessary to restart the printer or the router. Power cycling both devices can often resolve connectivity issues. If your network is hidden, you might need to manually enter your SSID in the printer settings to establish a connection.
What should I do if I entered the wrong Wi-Fi password?
If you accidentally entered the wrong Wi-Fi password while connecting your Brother MFC-L2690DW, don’t worry; it’s easy to correct. Simply return to the network settings by accessing the control panel and navigating to the WLAN options. You will need to select your Wi-Fi network again, allowing you to input the password one more time.
Be attentive while entering the password, noting uppercase and lowercase letters, as passwords are case-sensitive. After correcting the password, the printer should connect to your Wi-Fi network successfully if all details are accurate.
Can I connect my Brother MFC-L2690DW to a dual-band router?
Yes, the Brother MFC-L2690DW can connect to dual-band routers. It supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz wireless networks. However, to ensure a seamless connection, especially during initial setup, it’s common to connect to the 2.4 GHz band since it often offers a more extended range and better penetration through walls.
If you prefer to connect to the 5 GHz band, ensure that your printer is within a suitable range of the router. You may need to manually select the band during the setup process, as sometimes devices prioritize connecting to the 2.4 GHz band by default.
How can I verify if my Brother MFC-L2690DW is connected to Wi-Fi?
To verify if your Brother MFC-L2690DW is connected to Wi-Fi, you can print a network configuration report directly from the printer. Access the printer’s menu and select “Print Reports” followed by “Network Configuration.” This report will provide details about your current network connection, including the status of the wireless connection and the assigned IP address.
Alternatively, you can check the Wi-Fi icon on the control panel. If the Wi-Fi indicator displays a solid connection icon, that indicates that your printer is successfully connected to your Wi-Fi network.
What should I do if my Brother MFC-L2690DW keeps disconnecting from Wi-Fi?
If your Brother MFC-L2690DW keeps disconnecting from Wi-Fi, start by checking the stability of your wireless network. Ensure that the router is functioning correctly and that you have a strong Wi-Fi signal in the area where the printer is located. Physical obstructions such as walls or electronic devices may interfere with the signal strength.
You might also want to check for firmware updates for your printer. Sometimes, manufacturers release updates to improve performance and connectivity. In the printer’s menu, navigate to the “Network” option to check if there are available firmware updates that you can install to enhance your printer’s connectivity reliability.