Key points
- Are you tired of seeing your Brother printer listed with a generic or confusing name on your network.
- You can choose a name that reflects your preferences or the purpose of the printer.
- You can find the IP address on the printer’s display, in the printer’s manual, or by checking your router’s connected devices list.
Are you tired of seeing your Brother printer listed with a generic or confusing name on your network? Changing the printer name can make it easier to identify and manage, especially if you have multiple devices connected. This guide will walk you through the process of changing your Brother printer’s name on your network, regardless of your operating system.
Why Change Your Brother Printer Name?
There are several reasons why you might want to change your Brother printer‘s name on your network:
- Clarity: A descriptive name makes it easier to identify your printer among other devices on your network.
- Organization: If you have multiple printers, giving them distinct names can help you keep track of which printer is which.
- Troubleshooting: A clear name can be helpful when troubleshooting network connectivity issues.
- Personalization: You can choose a name that reflects your preferences or the purpose of the printer.
Method 1: Changing the Printer Name Through the Control Panel (Windows)
1. Open the Control Panel: Search for “Control Panel” in the Windows search bar and open it.
2. Navigate to Devices and Printers: Click on “Devices and Printers” or “View devices and printers” depending on your Windows version.
3. Right-click on your Brother printer: Locate your Brother printer in the list and right-click on its icon.
4. Select “Printer properties“: From the context menu, choose “Printer properties.”
5. Access the “General” tab: In the “Printer Properties” window, click on the “General” tab.
6. Change the printer name: In the “Printer name” field, enter your desired new name.
7. Apply and confirm: Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes.
Method 2: Changing the Printer Name Through the Brother iPrint&Scan App (iOS and Android)
1. Download the Brother iPrint&Scan app: Download and install the Brother iPrint&Scan app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
2. Connect to your printer: Open the app and select your Brother printer from the list of available devices.
3. Navigate to the settings: Tap on the settings icon, usually represented by a gear or three dots.
4. Change the printer name: Locate the “Printer Name” setting and enter your desired new name.
5. Save the changes: Tap on “Save” or “OK” to confirm the changes.
Method 3: Changing the Printer Name Through the Web Interface (Brother Printers with Network Connectivity)
1. Access the printer’s web interface: Open a web browser and enter the IP address of your Brother printer. You can find the IP address on the printer’s display, in the printer’s manual, or by checking your router’s connected devices list.
2. Log in (if necessary): Some Brother printers may require a username and password to access the web interface. Check your printer’s manual for the default credentials.
3. Navigate to the network settings: Locate the “Network” or “Settings” section within the web interface.
4. Find the printer name setting: Look for an option labeled “Printer Name,” “Device Name,” or something similar.
5. Enter the new name: Type in your desired new name for the printer.
6. Save the changes: Click on “Save,” “Apply,” or “OK” to confirm the changes.
Method 4: Changing the Printer Name Through the Brother ControlCenter Software (Windows)
1. Install the Brother ControlCenter software: Download and install the Brother ControlCenter software from the Brother website, specifically for your printer model.
2. Open the Brother ControlCenter: Launch the Brother ControlCenter software.
3. Access the printer settings: Click on the “Settings” or “Configuration” option.
4. Find the printer name setting: Look for an option labeled “Printer Name,” “Device Name,” or something similar.
5. Enter the new name: Type in your desired new name for the printer.
6. Save the changes: Click on “Save,” “Apply,” or “OK” to confirm the changes.
Important Considerations
- Network configuration: Some network configurations might require additional steps to change the printer name. If you’re unsure, consult your network administrator or refer to your router’s documentation.
- Printer model: The specific steps and options available may vary depending on your Brother printer model. Refer to your printer’s manual for detailed instructions.
- Connectivity: Ensure that your computer is connected to the same network as your Brother printer.
Tips for Choosing a Printer Name
- Keep it simple and descriptive: Choose a name that is easy to remember and clearly identifies the printer.
- Avoid using spaces: Use underscores or hyphens instead of spaces to avoid issues with network protocols.
- Use a unique name: Ensure the name is unique within your network to avoid conflicts with other devices.
- Consider the location: You can include the location of the printer in the name, such as “Office Printer” or “Living Room Printer.”
Wrapping Up: A Fresh Start for Your Brother Printer
Changing your Brother printer name on your network is a straightforward process that can significantly improve your printing experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily give your printer a new identity that reflects your needs and preferences.
Information You Need to Know
Q1: What if I can’t find the printer name setting in the web interface?
A1: The location of the printer name setting can vary depending on your printer model. Refer to your printer’s manual for specific instructions. If you still can’t find it, contact Brother support for assistance.
Q2: Will changing the printer name affect its functionality?
A2: No, changing the printer name should not affect its functionality. However, you might need to reconnect the printer to your devices after changing the name.
Q3: Can I change the printer name back to its original name?
A3: Yes, you can change the printer name back to its original name by following the same steps outlined in this guide.
Q4: Do I need to change the printer name on every device connected to it?
A4: No, you only need to change the printer name on the network itself. The new name will automatically be reflected on all connected devices after you save the changes.
Q5: How often can I change the printer name?
A5: You can change the printer name as often as you like, but it’s generally recommended to only do so when necessary.