How do I get my Brother printer back online?
It might be annoying to have problems with your Brother printer seeming to be offline, particularly when you need to print crucial papers. An offline status indicates that your computer cannot communicate with the printer, preventing you from sending print jobs. This issue can stem from various factors, including connectivity problems, configuration errors, or hardware issues. In this blog, we’ll explore common reasons why your Brother printer offline and provide troubleshooting steps to help you get it back online.
Common Reasons Why Your Brother Printer Says Offline
1. Connectivity Issues
One of the primary reasons for a printer to go offline is a connectivity problem, whether it's wired or wireless.
Wireless Connection: If your Brother printer is connected via Wi-Fi, ensure that it is connected to the correct network. Verify that your Wi-Fi network is functioning and that the printer is within range of your router.
Wired Connection: For wired connections, check that the USB or Ethernet cable is securely connected to both the printer and your computer. Damaged or loose wires might interfere with communication.
2. Printer Not Set as Default
Your computer may not recognize your Brother printer if it is not set as the default printer. The printer may look offline as a result of this.
Default Printer: On your computer, go to the list of printers and make sure your Brother printer is set as the default printer. This ensures that all print jobs are directed to the correct device.
3. Printer Offline Mode
Printers can sometimes be manually set to offline mode for various reasons. This setting prevents the printer from receiving print jobs.
Offline Mode: Check the printer settings to ensure it is not set to offline mode. On Windows, go to "Devices and Printers," right-click on your Brother printer, and select "See what’s printing." Ensure "Use Printer Offline" is not checked.
4. Print Spooler Service Issues
The print spooler is a service that manages print jobs sent to the printer. If the spooler service is not running correctly, your printer may appear offline.
Print Spooler Service: Restarting the print spooler service can resolve issues. Access the "Services" section on your computer, find "Print Spooler," and restart the service.
5. Driver Problems
Outdated or corrupted printer drivers can cause connectivity issues, leading to your printer being marked as offline.
Driver Update: Ensure you have the latest drivers installed for your Brother printer. Visit the Brother website to download and install the most recent drivers for your specific model.
6. Printer Hardware Issues
Hardware problems, such as paper jams, low ink levels, or mechanical failures, can affect your printer’s connectivity and cause it to go offline.
Check Hardware: Inspect your printer for any hardware issues. Address any error messages displayed on the printer, and check for issues like paper jams or low ink levels.
7. Network Issues
If your Brother printer is connected to a network, issues with the network can impact its connectivity.
Network Status: Verify that your network is functioning correctly. Restart your router and printer to reset the network connection and resolve any network-related issues.
8. Firewall or Antivirus Interference
Security software or firewalls can sometimes block communication between your computer and printer, resulting in an offline status.
Security Settings: Review your firewall or antivirus settings to ensure they are not blocking printer communication. You may need to add an exception for the printer software.
How to Troubleshoot Your Brother Printer to Get It Back Online
1. Check Printer Connection
For Wireless Printers: Confirm that your printer is connected to the correct Wi-Fi network. Reconnect if necessary and ensure your router is functioning properly.
For Wired Printers: Ensure all cables are securely connected and undamaged.
2. Set the Printer as Default
Windows: Go to "Control Panel" > "Devices and Printers," right-click on your Brother printer, and select "Set as default printer."
Mac: Go to "System Preferences" > "Printers & Scanners," select your Brother printer, and click "Default."
3. Restart the Print Spooler Service
Windows: Open "Services," locate "Print Spooler," right-click, and select "Restart."
4. Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers
Download Drivers: Visit the Brother website, find your printer model, and download the latest drivers. Install them and restart your computer.
5. Check for Hardware Issues
Inspect Printer: Look for any error messages or physical issues like paper jams. Address any problems according to the printer’s manual.
6. Restart Network Devices
Router and Printer: Power off and restart both your router and printer to refresh network connections.
7. Review Security Settings
Firewall and Antivirus: Check settings to ensure they are not blocking printer communication. Add exceptions for the printer if needed.
8. Contact Brother Support
Brother Support: If the issue persists after trying all troubleshooting steps, contact Brother’s customer support for further assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Brother printer keep showing as offline?
Common reasons include connectivity issues, outdated drivers, hardware problems, or incorrect settings. Follow troubleshooting steps to diagnose and fix the issue.
How can I check if my Brother printer is set to offline mode?
On Windows, go to "Devices and Printers," right-click your Brother printer, and select "See what’s printing." Ensure "Use Printer Offline" is not selected.
What should I do if my printer driver is outdated?
Download and install the latest driver from the Brother website. This can resolve issues related to outdated or corrupted drivers.
How do I restart the print spooler service?
Open "Services" on your computer, find "Print Spooler," right-click, and select "Restart."
Conclusion
A Brother printer offline can disrupt your printing tasks, but understanding the potential causes and following the right troubleshooting steps can help you resolve the issue. By checking your printer’s connection, updating drivers, and inspecting hardware, you can often fix the problem and restore your printer to online status. If these steps do not resolve the issue, contacting Brother support for further assistance is recommended.
