What To Know
- Plug one end of the USB cable into the USB port on your computer and the other end into the USB port on the printer.
- Plug one end of the Ethernet cable into the Ethernet port on the printer and the other end into an available Ethernet port on your router.
- Yes, you can connect the printer to multiple computers via a wireless network or by using a USB cable for each computer.
The Brother MFC-J491DW is a versatile all-in-one printer that offers reliable printing, scanning, and copying capabilities. Connecting this device to your computer or network is crucial to harness its full potential. This comprehensive guide will provide step-by-step instructions on how to connect your Brother MFC-J491DW effortlessly.
Connecting via USB Cable
1. Gather Materials: Ensure you have a USB cable (Type A to Type B) and the Brother MFC-J491DW.
2. Connect the Cable: Plug one end of the USB cable into the USB port on your computer and the other end into the USB port on the printer.
3. Install Drivers: Insert the Brother installation CD into your computer and follow the on-screen prompts to install the necessary drivers.
Connecting via Wireless Network
Option 1: Wireless Protected Setup (WPS)
1. Enable WPS: On your router, press the WPS button to activate WPS mode.
2. Start WPS on Printer: Press and hold the “Wireless” button on the printer for 3 seconds until the Wi-Fi indicator light starts flashing.
3. Connect Automatically: The printer will automatically connect to your wireless network.
Option 2: Manual Configuration
1. Open Network Settings: On your computer, go to the network settings and select “Wi-Fi.”
2. Locate Printer Network: Look for the Brother MFC-J491DW network in the list of available networks.
3. Connect to Printer: Click on the printer network and enter the password provided in the user manual.
4. Configure Printer: Go to the printer’s control panel and navigate to “Network” > “Wi-Fi Setup” > “Manual Setup.”
5. Enter Network Details: Select your Wi-Fi network and enter the password.
Connecting via Ethernet Cable
1. Gather Materials: You will need an Ethernet cable and the Brother MFC-J491DW.
2. Connect the Cable: Plug one end of the Ethernet cable into the Ethernet port on the printer and the other end into an available Ethernet port on your router.
3. Configure Network Settings: On the printer’s control panel, navigate to “Network” > “Wired Setup” and follow the on-screen prompts to configure the network settings.
Troubleshooting Connection Issues
- USB: Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the computer and the printer. Try using a different USB cable or port.
- Wireless: Verify that your router is enabled and broadcasting a Wi-Fi signal. Make sure the printer is within range of the router. Reset the printer’s Wi-Fi settings and try connecting again.
- Ethernet: Check that the Ethernet cable is properly connected to the printer and router. Ensure that the Ethernet port on the router is active.
Optimizing Connection Performance
- Use High-Quality Cables: Invest in high-quality USB and Ethernet cables to minimize signal loss and ensure stable connections.
- Update Drivers: Regularly update the printer drivers to resolve any compatibility issues and improve performance.
- Minimize Distance: Place the printer close to the computer or router to reduce signal interference.
- Avoid Obstacles: Keep the printer away from metal objects and other devices that may interfere with wireless signals.
In a nutshell: Enhancing Productivity with Seamless Connectivity
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effortlessly connect your Brother MFC-J491DW to your computer or network. This will enable you to seamlessly print, scan, and copy documents with ease. The versatile connectivity options of this printer provide the flexibility to integrate it into your workflow and maximize productivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What if my printer is not detected by my computer after connecting via USB?
A: Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both devices and try using a different USB port on your computer.
Q: How do I change the wireless network settings on my printer?
A: On the printer’s control panel, navigate to “Network” > “Wi-Fi Setup” and select “Manual Setup” to modify the network settings.
Q: Can I connect the printer to multiple computers?
A: Yes, you can connect the printer to multiple computers via a wireless network or by using a USB cable for each computer.
