Clear any printer-panel error, confirm the cable or same-network connection, set the correct Brother queue as default, and clear paused jobs. Reinstall the full driver package only after the device is reachable. A printer that is offline from only one computer usually has a port or queue problem on that computer, not a hardware fault.
What this covers
- Supported Brother printers used from Windows or macOS
What it does not cover
- ×Mechanical, toner, ink, drum or paper errors shown by the printer
Try in this order
0 of 4 completedRead the Brother display
ReversibleClear paper, cover, supply or mechanical messages and confirm the printer reaches Ready.
Verify the physical or network path
ReversibleReconnect USB directly, or confirm the printer and computer are on the same Wi-Fi or wired LAN.
Choose the correct queue
Reset / data riskSet the current Brother printer as default and delete duplicate offline queues that point to old connections.
Clear jobs, then reinstall if needed
Reset / data riskCancel stuck jobs and restart printing. Use Brother’s model-specific full package only if the reachable printer still cannot print.
Evidence ledger
Sources behind this answer
Exact questions
Common questions about “Brother printer is offline or will not print”
Do I need to restart the router as well?+
A router restart refreshes addresses and can reconnect a printer that dropped off the network. Restart the router, wait for it to come back and then restart the printer.
Why is the Brother printer offline?+
The connection or port may be wrong.
Should I reinstall?+
Reinstalling the driver can help.
Is the printer on the network?+
Print a network report from the printer.
Should I use the Brother tool?+
Brother's tools can repair the connection.
Is the port correct?+
Check it in properties.
Would clearing the print queue help?+
Yes. A stuck job can hold up the queue and make the printer look offline. Cancel all jobs and restart the spooler.
Is the printer on Wi-Fi or USB?+
Confirm the connection type matches the port in Windows, and switch to a new port if it changed.
Should I reinstall the driver?+
Removing the Brother driver and installing the latest version from the maker's site can fix a corrupted setup. Reboot before adding the printer again.
Is the printer's Wi-Fi setup complete?+
Print a network configuration page from the Brother and confirm it shows the right network name and a valid IP address. If not, run the wireless setup again from the printer's menu.