Introduction
How to Fix Brother Printer Won’t Scan: If your Brother printer won’t scan, you’re not alone. Many users experience scanning issues due to driver conflicts, connection problems, or incorrect settings. Whether you’re using a USB or wireless connection, this guide will walk you through the most effective troubleshooting steps to fix the issue and restore your printer’s scanning functionality.
Common Reasons Why Your Brother Printer Won’t Scan
1. Connection Issues
A weak or disrupted connection between your printer and computer can cause scanning failures.
- If connected via Wi-Fi, ensure both devices are on the same network.
- If using a USB cable, check if it’s properly plugged into both the printer and computer.
- Restart your router and printer to refresh the connection.
2. Outdated or Corrupted Drivers
Your printer’s scanning feature might not work if you have an outdated or corrupt driver.
- Go to the Brother Support Website and download the latest drivers for your model.
- Install the drivers and restart your computer.
3. Incorrect Scanner Settings
Your scanner settings may be misconfigured.
- Open Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
- Right-click on your Brother printer and set it as the default scanner.
4. Windows Firewall or Antivirus Blocking the Scan
Security software may mistakenly block scanning.
- Temporarily disable your firewall or antivirus and check if scanning works.
- If it does, add your Brother printer to the list of allowed devices in the security settings.
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5. Scan to PC is Not Enabled
For network printers, the Scan to PC feature must be enabled.
- Open the Brother Control Center software.
- Navigate to the Scan settings and ensure the Scan to PC option is turned on.
6. TWAIN or WIA Driver Issues
Brother scanners rely on TWAIN and WIA drivers.
- Check if these drivers are installed in Device Manager > Imaging Devices.
- If missing, reinstall them from the Brother website.
How to Fix Brother Printer Won’t Scan – Step-by-Step Solutions
Step 1: Restart the Printer and Computer
- Turn off your Brother printer and unplug it.
- Restart your computer.
- Plug the printer back in and turn it on.
- Check if the scanner works.
Step 2: Check Scanner Connectivity
For Wi-Fi printers:
- Ensure both the printer and computer are connected to the same network.
- Run the network diagnostic tool in the Brother software.
For USB printers:
- Try using a different USB cable or port.
- Ensure the USB port is functional by connecting another device.
Step 3: Reinstall Brother Scanner Drivers
- Visit the Brother Support Website and download the latest scanner drivers.
- Uninstall the existing drivers by going to Control Panel > Programs > Uninstall a program.
- Restart your PC and install the new drivers.
Step 4: Run Windows Troubleshooter
Windows has a built-in tool to fix scanning issues.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
- Select Printer Troubleshooter and follow the instructions.
Step 5: Disable Windows Firewall and Antivirus Temporarily
Your security software may be blocking scanner communication.
- Disable your antivirus and firewall.
- Try scanning again.
- If it works, add your Brother printer as an allowed device.
Step 6: Use Brother iPrint & Scan Software
Brother’s official software provides additional troubleshooting tools.
- Download Brother iPrint & Scan from here.
- Follow the setup instructions and test scanning.
Step 7: Perform a Factory Reset on Your Brother Printer
If all else fails, reset the printer to factory settings.
- Press Menu > Initial Setup > Reset.
- Select Factory Reset and confirm.
- Reconnect and reconfigure your printer.
When to Seek Professional Help?
If your Brother printer still won’t scan, professional support may be necessary. Hardware issues, like a faulty scanner unit, may require expert repair.
Contact Integral Systems for expert printer repair services:
- Website: Integral Systems
- Address: 1201 West Esplanade Ave Apt. 303, LA, Kenner, United States 70065
- Email: admin@integralsystems.us
- Phone: +1 888 5065 226
Final Thoughts
Fixing a Brother printer that won’t scan can be simple if you follow these troubleshooting steps. From checking connections to updating drivers, most issues can be resolved quickly. However, if the problem persists, don’t hesitate to reach out to Integral Systems for expert IT support.
Also, you can check the Managed IT Support at Integral Systems here and explore solutions powered by Argusdna here.
