Comprehensive Review of Brother MFC-L8850CDW Wireless Setup

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The Brother MFC-L8850CDW is a robust color laser multifunction printer designed for small to medium-sized offices. It offers a range of features including printing, copying, scanning, and faxing, all of which can be accessed wirelessly. Setting up the wireless functionality of this printer can greatly enhance its usability and efficiency, allowing multiple users to connect and print from different devices without the need for physical connections. This review will provide a comprehensive guide on the wireless setup process for the Brother MFC-L8850CDW, including step-by-step instructions, potential issues, and troubleshooting tips.

1. Introduction to Wireless Setup

Wireless setup for the Brother MFC-L8850CDW involves connecting the printer to a Wi-Fi network, enabling it to communicate with computers, smartphones, and tablets wirelessly. This setup is crucial for offices where multiple devices need to access the printer without the clutter of cables. The wireless setup process can be completed using the printer’s control panel, the Brother installation software, or via a WPS connection.

2. Prerequisites for Wireless Setup

Before beginning the wireless setup process, ensure you have the following:

  1. Wi-Fi Network: A functioning wireless network with the network name (SSID) and password.
  2. Computer or Mobile Device: A computer, smartphone, or tablet connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
  3. Router Access: Physical access to the router if using WPS setup.

3. Wireless Setup Methods

There are three primary methods to set up the Brother MFC-L8850CDW wirelessly:

  1. Using the Control Panel: This method involves configuring the Wi-Fi settings directly on the printer.
  2. Using the Brother Installation Software: This method involves using the Brother software to guide you through the setup process on your computer.
  3. Using WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup): This method uses the WPS button on your router for a simplified connection process.

4. Setting Up Wireless Using the Control Panel

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Power On the Printer: Ensure the Brother MFC-L8850CDW is powered on.
  2. Access Network Settings:
    • Press the “Menu” button on the printer’s control panel.
    • Use the navigation buttons to go to “Network” and press “OK.”
    • Select “WLAN” and press “OK.”
    • Choose “Setup Wizard” and press “OK.”
  3. Select Wi-Fi Network:
    • The printer will search for available Wi-Fi networks and display them.
    • Use the navigation buttons to select your network (SSID) and press “OK.”
  4. Enter Wi-Fi Password:
    • Enter your network password using the printer’s keypad. Use the navigation buttons to select characters and the “OK” button to confirm each character.
    • Once the password is entered, press “OK” to confirm.
  5. Connection Confirmation:
    • The printer will attempt to connect to the Wi-Fi network. If successful, it will display “Connected.”
    • Print a network configuration page to confirm the connection by selecting “Print Report” and then “Network Configuration.”

5. Setting Up Wireless Using the Brother Installation Software

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Download Software:
    • Go to the Brother website and download the latest installation software for the Brother MFC-L8850CDW.
  2. Run the Installer:
    • Launch the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions.
  3. Select Connection Type:
    • When prompted, select “Wireless Network Connection” and click “Next.”
  4. Connect the Printer Temporarily:
    • The software may prompt you to temporarily connect the printer to your computer using a USB cable to transfer the network settings. Follow the on-screen instructions to do this.
  5. Enter Network Details:
    • The software will prompt you to enter your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password. Enter these details and click “Next.”
  6. Complete the Setup:
    • The software will transfer the network settings to the printer. Once the connection is established, you can disconnect the USB cable.
    • Complete the setup by following any remaining on-screen instructions.

6. Setting Up Wireless Using WPS

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Power On the Printer and Router:
    • Ensure both the Brother MFC-L8850CDW and your Wi-Fi router are powered on.
  2. Access WPS Setup on Printer:
    • Press the “Menu” button on the printer’s control panel.
    • Use the navigation buttons to go to “Network” and press “OK.”
    • Select “WLAN” and press “OK.”
    • Choose “WPS” and press “OK.”
  3. Activate WPS on Router:
    • Press the WPS button on your Wi-Fi router within two minutes.
  4. Connection Confirmation:
    • The printer will attempt to connect to the Wi-Fi network using WPS. If successful, it will display “Connected.”
    • Print a network configuration page to confirm the connection by selecting “Print Report” and then “Network Configuration.”

7. Troubleshooting Wireless Setup Issues

Even with careful setup, you might encounter issues during the wireless setup process. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

Problem: Printer Cannot Find Wi-Fi Network

Solutions:

  1. Check Network Availability: Ensure your Wi-Fi network is active and within range of the printer.
  2. SSID Broadcast: Make sure your router is broadcasting the SSID (network name).
  3. Move Closer: If the signal is weak, move the printer closer to the router.

Problem: Incorrect Wi-Fi Password

Solutions:

  1. Verify Password: Double-check the Wi-Fi password entered on the printer.
  2. Re-enter Details: Carefully re-enter the password, ensuring there are no typos or extra spaces.

Problem: WPS Connection Fails

Solutions:

  1. Router Compatibility: Ensure your router supports WPS.
  2. Try Again: Press the WPS button on the router again and then retry the WPS setup on the printer.
  3. Use Manual Setup: If WPS fails repeatedly, consider using the manual setup method via the control panel or installation software.

Problem: Printer Connects to Wi-Fi but Cannot Be Found on Network

Solutions:

  1. IP Address Conflict: Check for IP address conflicts on your network.
  2. Restart Devices: Restart the printer, router, and computer to reset the network connection.
  3. Firewall Settings: Ensure that any firewall or security software is not blocking the printer’s access to the network.

8. Enhancing Wireless Performance

Once the Brother MFC-L8850CDW is connected to your wireless network, you can take additional steps to ensure optimal performance.

Network Stability

  1. Router Placement: Place your Wi-Fi router in a central location to ensure even coverage throughout the office.
  2. Avoid Interference: Keep the router away from other electronic devices that may cause interference, such as microwaves and cordless phones.
  3. Update Router Firmware: Ensure your router’s firmware is up-to-date to improve performance and security.

Printer Settings

  1. Static IP Address: Assign a static IP address to the printer to avoid connection issues caused by dynamic IP changes.
  2. Power Saving Mode: Configure the printer’s power-saving settings to prevent it from going offline when not in use.

9. Wireless Printing from Multiple Devices

The Brother MFC-L8850CDW supports wireless printing from various devices, including computers, smartphones, and tablets.

Printing from Computers

  1. Install Drivers: Ensure the Brother printer drivers are installed on all computers that need to print wirelessly.
  2. Select Printer: When printing a document, select the Brother MFC-L8850CDW from the list of available printers.

Printing from Mobile Devices

  1. Brother iPrint&Scan App: Download and install the Brother iPrint&Scan app on your mobile device.
  2. Connect to Printer: Open the app, connect to the Brother MFC-L8850CDW, and print documents or photos directly from your device.

Cloud Printing

  1. Google Cloud Print: Register the Brother MFC-L8850CDW with Google Cloud Print to print documents from anywhere using your Google account.
  2. Apple AirPrint: Use Apple AirPrint to print from iOS devices without needing additional drivers or software.

10. Maintaining Wireless Connection

Maintaining a stable wireless connection is crucial for the uninterrupted operation of the Brother MFC-L8850CDW.

Regular Checks

  1. Network Configuration Page: Periodically print a network configuration page to check the printer’s network status and settings.
  2. Monitor Connection: Keep an eye on the printer’s connection status via the control panel or Brother’s software to ensure it remains connected.

Updates and Maintenance

  1. Firmware Updates: Regularly check for and install firmware updates for the printer to improve connectivity and performance.
  2. Network Maintenance: Perform regular maintenance on your network, such as rebooting the router and updating its firmware.

11. Advanced Wireless Features

The Brother MFC-L8850CDW offers several advanced wireless features that can enhance its functionality in a networked environment.

Secure Printing

Feature: Secure printing allows users to protect sensitive documents by requiring a PIN code to release print jobs.

Setup:

  1. Enable Secure Print: Access the printer’s settings via the control panel or Brother software to enable secure printing.
  2. Set PIN Code: Assign a PIN code for secure print jobs.
  3. Print Securely: When printing, select the secure print option and enter the PIN code when prompted on the printer’s control panel to release the print job

Wireless Direct

Feature: Wireless Direct allows devices to connect directly to the printer without a Wi-Fi network, enabling printing in environments without network infrastructure.

Setup:

  1. Enable Wireless Direct: Access the printer’s network settings via the control panel.
  2. Activate Wireless Direct Mode: Select “Wireless Direct” and enable it.
  3. Connect Devices: Devices can connect directly to the printer using the SSID and password provided by the printer.

12. Security Considerations

Ensuring the security of your wireless network and the Brother MFC-L8850CDW is crucial, especially in office environments where sensitive information is often handled.

Secure Network

  1. Strong Passwords: Use strong, complex passwords for your Wi-Fi network and change them regularly.
  2. Encryption: Ensure your Wi-Fi network uses WPA2 or higher encryption.
  3. Hidden SSID: Consider hiding your Wi-Fi network’s SSID to reduce visibility to unauthorized users.

Printer Security

  1. Access Controls: Set up access controls and user authentication to limit who can use the printer.
  2. Firmware Updates: Regularly update the printer’s firmware to protect against vulnerabilities.
  3. Secure Print Jobs: Use the secure printing feature to protect sensitive documents.

13. User Experience and Feedback

User experiences with the wireless setup of the Brother MFC-L8850CDW can vary, but common themes emerge that provide insight into the setup process’s effectiveness and areas for improvement.

Positive Feedback

  1. Ease of Setup: Many users find the wireless setup process straightforward and appreciate the multiple setup options.
  2. Reliable Connectivity: Users often report stable and reliable wireless connections once setup is complete.
  3. Mobile Printing: The ability to print from smartphones and tablets using the Brother iPrint&Scan app or Apple AirPrint is frequently praised.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Initial Connection Issues: Some users encounter difficulties with initial Wi-Fi setup, often due to network configurations or password entry errors.
  2. WPS Limitations: The WPS setup method can be unreliable if routers do not fully support the feature or if timing issues arise.
  3. Advanced Configuration: Advanced network settings and security features can be challenging for less tech-savvy users to configure.

14. Comparison with Competitors

When evaluating the Brother MFC-L8850CDW’s wireless setup, it’s useful to compare it with similar models from other manufacturers.

HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M477fdw

  1. Ease of Setup: Both printers offer similar ease of setup with multiple methods available, though HP’s Smart App provides a more guided experience.
  2. Connectivity Options: The HP model offers similar wireless connectivity options, including Wi-Fi Direct and mobile printing capabilities.
  3. Security Features: HP also includes robust security features, but Brother’s secure printing is particularly user-friendly.

Canon Color imageCLASS MF743Cdw

  1. Ease of Setup: Canon’s setup process is comparable, though some users find Brother’s control panel more intuitive.
  2. Mobile Printing: Both models offer extensive mobile printing options, with Canon supporting Google Cloud Print and Apple AirPrint as well.
  3. Reliability: Brother’s model is noted for its reliability in maintaining wireless connections, a slight edge over Canon in user feedback.

15. Final Thoughts and Recommendations

The Brother MFC-L8850CDW stands out as a reliable and feature-rich multifunction printer that excels in wireless connectivity. Its multiple setup methods cater to different user preferences and technical abilities, making it accessible for both tech-savvy users and those less experienced with network configurations.

Summary of Key Points:

  1. Versatile Setup Options: The printer offers setup via the control panel, installation software, and WPS, providing flexibility.
  2. User-Friendly Features: Features like secure printing and Wireless Direct enhance functionality and user experience.
  3. Reliable Performance: Once set up, the printer offers stable and reliable wireless performance, with positive feedback from users.
  4. Security Considerations: Strong security features help protect sensitive documents and network integrity.
  5. Comparison with Competitors: The Brother MFC-L8850CDW holds its own against competitors, offering comparable or superior ease of use and reliability.

Recommendations:

  1. Follow Detailed Instructions: Users should follow the detailed setup instructions provided to ensure a smooth and successful wireless setup.
  2. Regular Maintenance: Regularly check for firmware updates and perform network maintenance to maintain optimal performance.
  3. Utilize Security Features: Take advantage of the printer’s security features to protect sensitive information and network security.
  4. Seek Support if Needed: Don’t hesitate to use Brother’s support resources, including online manuals, FAQs, and customer support, if issues arise during setup.

By following these guidelines and recommendations, users can maximize the benefits of the Brother MFC-L8850CDW’s wireless capabilities, ensuring a productive and efficient office environment.

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