Master Your Brother MFC-J995DW with a Quick & Smooth Setup Guide

I. Introduction
When it comes to setting up your Brother MFC-J995DW printer, ensuring a smooth and efficient process is key to enjoying hassle-free printing. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to set up your printer from unboxing to troubleshooting common issues. Let’s dive into the details!
Overview of Brother MFC-J995DW Setup
The Brother MFC-J995DW is a versatile all-in-one printer designed to meet your printing, scanning, copying, and faxing needs. Its user-friendly interface and advanced features make it a popular choice for both home and office use. Before diving into the setup process, let’s take a quick look at what makes this printer stand out:
- High-Quality Printing: The MFC-J995DW delivers crisp and vibrant prints thanks to its advanced printing technology and high-resolution output.
- Wireless Connectivity: With built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, you can easily connect your devices to the printer for seamless printing from anywhere in your home or office.
- Duplex Printing: Save paper and reduce waste with automatic duplex printing, allowing you to print on both sides of the page.
- Mobile Printing: Print directly from your smartphone or tablet using the Brother iPrint&Scan app, making printing on-the-go a breeze.
Now that you have an overview of the Brother MFC-J995DW’s capabilities, let’s move on to why proper setup is crucial for optimal performance.
Importance of Proper Setup for Efficient Printing
Properly setting up your Brother MFC-J995DW printer not only ensures smooth operation but also maximizes its performance and longevity. Here’s why getting the setup right from the start is essential:
- Optimal Functionality: A correct setup ensures that all features of the printer, such as wireless connectivity, duplex printing, and mobile printing, work seamlessly without issues.
- Print Quality: Setting up the printer correctly ensures that you get the best print quality, whether you’re printing documents, photos, or presentations.
- Ease of Use: A well-configured printer is easier to use, reducing the chances of encountering errors or connectivity issues during printing tasks.
- Long-Term Reliability: Proper setup and maintenance contribute to the longevity of your printer, minimizing downtime and the need for frequent repairs.
By following the setup guide meticulously, you’ll not only experience the full potential of your Brother MFC-J995DW printer but also enhance your overall printing experience.
Next, we’ll delve into the unboxing and initial setup process to get your printer up and running smoothly. Stay tuned for step-by-step instructions and tips to make the setup process a breeze.
Learn more: Brother MFC-L5850DW Setup Guide
II. Unboxing and Initial Setup
Congratulations on your new Brother MFC-J995DW printer! Let’s get started with the step-by-step process of unboxing and setting up your printer for optimal performance.
Unboxing the Printer and Accessories
- Start by locating the box containing your Brother MFC-J995DW printer and its accessories. Carefully cut open the tape and gently lift the top of the box to reveal the contents inside.
- Remove the printer from the box and set it aside on a clean, flat surface. Take note of any protective tapes or materials attached to the printer and remove them to avoid any obstruction during setup.
- Locate the accessories such as the power cord, ink cartridges, user manual, and installation CD. Keep these items handy as you proceed with the setup.
Checking for Any Damages or Missing Parts
- Inspect the printer for any visible damages such as dents, cracks, or scratches. Check the control panel, paper trays, and input/output ports for any signs of damage.
- Verify that all essential parts are included in the package. This includes the power cord, ink cartridges (if pre-installed), user manual, installation CD, and any additional accessories mentioned in the product documentation.
- If you notice any damages or missing parts, contact Brother customer support immediately for assistance.
Placing the Printer in a Suitable Location
- Choose a well-ventilated and flat surface to place your Brother MFC-J995DW printer. Avoid placing it near heat sources, direct sunlight, or areas with high humidity.
- Make sure there is ample space around the printer for easy access to paper trays, ink cartridge replacement, and maintenance tasks.
- Ensure that the printer is placed on a stable surface to prevent any wobbling or movement during operation.
Connecting Power and Turning On the Printer
- Connect one end of the power cord to the printer’s power port and the other end to a grounded electrical outlet. Avoid using extension cords or power strips if possible.
- Press the power button located on the control panel of the printer to turn it on. Wait for the printer to initialize and prepare for setup.
- Follow any on-screen instructions or prompts to complete the initial setup process. This may include selecting your language, region, date, and time settings.
Setting Language, Date, and Time
- Use the control panel buttons to navigate to the language settings menu. Select your preferred language from the available options and confirm your selection.
- Proceed to set the date and time according to your local time zone. This ensures that timestamps on printed documents are accurate.
- Once you’ve completed these steps, your Brother MFC-J995DW printer is ready for further configuration, including network setup and driver installation.
By following these step-by-step instructions, you’ve successfully unboxed and set up your Brother MFC-J995DW printer. Next, we’ll guide you through connecting your printer to a Wi-Fi or wired network for seamless printing from your devices.
Related information: Brother HL-L2380DW Setup
III. Connecting to Wi-Fi or Wired Network
One of the key features of the Brother MFC-J995DW printer is its ability to connect to both Wi-Fi and wired networks, giving you flexibility and convenience in how you set up your printing environment. In this section, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of connecting your printer to your preferred network type.
Guide to Accessing Network Settings on the Printer
- Start by ensuring that your printer is powered on and in standby mode.
- Using the control panel on the printer, navigate to the “Settings” or “Setup” menu.
- Look for the “Network” or “Wireless LAN” option and select it to access the network settings.
- Within the network settings menu, you’ll find options to configure Wi-Fi or wired network connections.
Guide to Selecting Wi-Fi or Wired Connection
- If you prefer a Wi-Fi connection, select the “Wi-Fi” option from the network settings menu.
- The printer will scan for available Wi-Fi networks in the vicinity. Choose your network from the list.
- Enter your Wi-Fi network password (also known as the network security key) using the printer’s keypad or touchscreen interface.
- Once the password is entered, the printer will attempt to connect to your Wi-Fi network. Wait for the connection to be established successfully.
Alternatively, if you prefer a wired connection:
- Select the “Wired” or “Ethernet” option from the network settings menu.
- Connect one end of an Ethernet cable to the printer’s Ethernet port and the other end to your router or network switch.
- The printer will automatically detect the wired connection and configure the network settings accordingly.
Guide to Entering Network Credentials (SSID, Password)
- When setting up a Wi-Fi connection, you’ll need to enter the SSID (Service Set Identifier) of your Wi-Fi network. This is the name of your network as it appears in the list of available networks.
- After selecting your Wi-Fi network, you’ll be prompted to enter the network password. This is the password you use to connect devices to your Wi-Fi network securely.
Verifying Network Connection Status
Once you’ve entered the network credentials, the printer will attempt to establish a connection to your Wi-Fi or wired network. You can verify the network connection status by:
- Checking the printer’s display or control panel for network status indicators. Look for icons or messages indicating a successful connection.
- Printing a network configuration page from the printer’s menu. This page provides detailed information about the network settings and connectivity status.
By following these step-by-step instructions, you can ensure that your Brother MFC-J995DW printer is connected to your desired network type, allowing you to print wirelessly or via a wired connection as per your preference.
Additional resources: Brother HL-L2350DW Wi-Fi Setup
IV. Installing Printer Drivers
One of the crucial steps in setting up your Brother MFC-J995DW printer is installing the necessary printer drivers. This ensures that your computer can communicate effectively with the printer, enabling smooth printing operations. Let’s walk through the process step by step:
Downloading the Latest Printer Drivers from Brother’s Website
- Begin by accessing Brother’s official website. Navigate to the support or downloads section, where you can find the drivers and software for your specific printer model.
- Enter the model number (MFC-J995DW) in the search bar or browse through the available products to locate the correct driver download page.
- Select your computer’s operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, etc.) from the dropdown menu to ensure compatibility with your system.
- Download the latest version of the printer driver software by clicking on the download button. Save the file to a location on your computer where you can easily access it.
Running the Driver Installation Wizard
- Once the driver software is downloaded, locate the file on your computer and double-click to run the installation wizard.
- Follow the on-screen instructions provided by the wizard to install the printer drivers. This may include accepting license agreements, choosing installation options (typical or custom), and selecting the installation directory.
- Allow the installation process to complete. Depending on your operating system and settings, you may be prompted to restart your computer after the drivers are installed.
Connecting the Printer to the Computer via USB (if Applicable)
- If your Brother MFC-J995DW printer requires a USB connection for initial setup or as an alternative connectivity option, ensure that the printer is powered on and ready.
- Connect one end of the USB cable to the USB port on the printer and the other end to an available USB port on your computer.
- Your computer should automatically detect the connected printer and finalize the driver installation process. Follow any additional prompts or instructions that may appear on your screen.
Testing Printer Functionality
- After the printer drivers are successfully installed and the printer is connected to your computer, it’s time to test the printer’s functionality.
- Open a document or image on your computer that you wish to print. Select the Brother MFC-J995DW printer from the list of available printers in your printing preferences or settings.
- Adjust any print settings such as paper size, orientation, quality, and number of copies as needed. Then, click on the print button to send the print job to your Brother printer.
- Monitor the printing process to ensure that the document or image is printed correctly and without any issues. Verify the print quality and check for any errors or malfunctions.
By following these steps, you’ve successfully installed the printer drivers for your Brother MFC-J995DW printer and tested its functionality. Your printer is now ready to fulfill your printing needs efficiently.
Read more: Brother HL2240 Setup
V. Mobile Printing Setup
Mobile printing has become increasingly popular due to its convenience and flexibility. With your Brother MFC-J995DW printer, you can easily print from your smartphone or tablet using the Brother iPrint&Scan app. Let’s go through the steps to set up mobile printing seamlessly:
Installing Brother iPrint&Scan App on Mobile Device
- Start by accessing the app store on your mobile device. Whether you’re using an Android device from Google Play Store or an iOS device from the Apple App Store, search for “Brother iPrint&Scan” and download the app.
- Once the app is downloaded and installed, launch it on your mobile device. You may be prompted to grant permissions such as access to photos, documents, and the device’s network.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to set up the Brother iPrint&Scan app. This may include agreeing to terms and conditions, signing in with your Brother account (if applicable), and customizing your print settings.
Connecting the Printer to the Mobile Device via Wi-Fi Direct or Network
- Ensure that your Brother MFC-J995DW printer is powered on and connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your mobile device. Alternatively, you can use Wi-Fi Direct for a direct connection between the printer and your mobile device.
- Open the Brother iPrint&Scan app on your mobile device. The app should automatically detect your Brother printer on the same network or via Wi-Fi Direct.
- Select your Brother MFC-J995DW printer from the list of available printers in the app. If prompted, enter any required network credentials (such as SSID and password) to establish the connection.
Printing from Mobile Devices
- With the Brother iPrint&Scan app successfully connected to your Brother MFC-J995DW printer, you can now start printing from your mobile device.
- Open the document, photo, or file you wish to print on your mobile device. Use the “Share” or “Print” option depending on the app you’re using to open the print settings.
- Select your Brother printer from the list of available printers. Customize the print settings such as paper size, orientation, color or grayscale, and the number of copies.
- Tap on the “Print” button to send the print job to your Brother MFC-J995DW printer. Monitor the printing process to ensure that the document or image is printed accurately and without any issues.
Tips for Successful Mobile Printing:
- Ensure that your mobile device and printer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network for network printing.
- For Wi-Fi Direct printing, follow the on-screen instructions on both your printer and mobile device to establish the direct connection.
- Keep the Brother iPrint&Scan app updated to access the latest features and improvements.
- Experiment with different print settings within the app to achieve the desired print quality and efficiency.
By following these steps, you’ve successfully set up mobile printing for your Brother MFC-J995DW printer. Enjoy the convenience of printing directly from your smartphone or tablet hassle-free.
See also: Brother HL-2270DW Wireless Setup
VI. Troubleshooting Common Issues
No matter how well-configured your Brother MFC-J995DW printer is, occasional issues may arise. Understanding how to troubleshoot common problems can help you resolve issues quickly and resume printing without interruptions. Here are some common issues and their troubleshooting steps:
Printer Not Connecting to Wi-Fi or Network
- Check Wi-Fi/Network Status: Ensure that your printer and the Wi-Fi router are turned on and functioning properly. Check if other devices can connect to the same network to verify network availability.
- Reboot Printer and Router: Turn off your printer and Wi-Fi router, wait for a few minutes, and then turn them back on. Sometimes, a simple reboot can resolve connectivity issues.
- Verify Network Settings: Access the network settings on your printer’s control panel. Confirm that the Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password are correct. Re-enter the network credentials if necessary.
- Move Closer to the Router: If the printer is far from the Wi-Fi router, move it closer to improve signal strength. Avoid obstacles or interference sources between the printer and the router.
Driver Installation Errors
- Download Updated Drivers: Visit Brother’s official website and download the latest printer drivers compatible with your operating system. Ensure that you download the correct drivers for your printer model.
- Clean Install Drivers: Uninstall any existing printer drivers on your computer. Then, reinstall the downloaded drivers following the installation wizard’s instructions carefully.
- Check Compatibility: Ensure that the printer drivers are compatible with your operating system version. Incompatibility can lead to installation errors.
- Update Operating System: If possible, update your computer’s operating system to the latest version. Sometimes, outdated OS versions can cause driver installation issues.
Print Quality Issues
- Check Ink/Toner Levels: Inspect the ink or toner levels in your printer. Low levels can result in faded or incomplete prints. Replace empty cartridges with genuine Brother cartridges.
- Clean Print Heads: Use the printer’s cleaning utility or manual cleaning method to clean the print heads. Accumulated dust or dried ink can affect print quality.
- Adjust Print Settings: Experiment with print settings such as quality, paper type, and color options to improve print output. Select the appropriate settings for your printing needs.
- Perform Print Head Alignment: Use the printer’s alignment utility to align the print heads for optimal print quality. Follow the on-screen instructions for precise alignment.
Paper Jams and Other Hardware Issues
- Clear Paper Jams: If your printer experiences a paper jam, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to clear the jammed paper carefully. Avoid using excessive force to prevent damage.
- Inspect Paper Tray: Ensure that the paper tray is loaded correctly with the right paper size and type. Adjust the paper guides to align with the paper stack.
- Clean Internal Components: Regularly clean the printer’s internal components such as rollers, trays, and sensors to prevent paper jams and other hardware issues. Use a lint-free cloth and gentle cleaning solution.
- Update Firmware: Check for firmware updates for your printer model on Brother’s website. Updating the firmware can address hardware-related issues and improve overall performance.
Error Code Explanations and Solutions
- Identify Error Codes: When your printer displays an error code, refer to the user manual or Brother’s online resources to understand the meaning of the error code.
- Follow Troubleshooting Steps: Most error codes come with specific troubleshooting steps. Follow these steps carefully to resolve the issue indicated by the error code.
- Reset Printer: If troubleshooting steps don’t resolve the error, try resetting the printer to its factory settings. Refer to the user manual for instructions on how to perform a reset.
- Contact Support: If you encounter persistent issues or error codes that you can’t resolve, contact Brother’s customer support for assistance. Provide them with the error code and details of the issue for faster resolution.
By following these troubleshooting steps, you can effectively address common issues that may arise with your Brother MFC-J995DW printer. Regular maintenance and prompt resolution of issues can help maintain optimal printer performance.
Read more: Download Brother Printer Setting Tool (Windows)
VII. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Have questions about setting up and troubleshooting your Brother MFC-J995DW printer? Check out these frequently asked questions along with expert answers and tips for optimal printer performance.
Common Questions about Brother MFC-J995DW Setup
Q1: How do I unbox and set up my Brother MFC-J995DW printer?
A1: Refer to the “Unboxing and Initial Setup” section of this guide for detailed step-by-step instructions on unboxing, setting up, and configuring your Brother MFC-J995DW printer.
Q2: Can I connect my Brother MFC-J995DW printer to a Wi-Fi network?
A2: Yes, you can connect your printer to a Wi-Fi network for wireless printing. Follow the instructions in the “Connecting to Wi-Fi or Wired Network” section to set up the Wi-Fi connection.
Q3: Is mobile printing supported on the Brother MFC-J995DW printer?
A3: Absolutely! Install the Brother iPrint&Scan app on your mobile device and follow the steps outlined in the “Mobile Printing Setup” section to print directly from your smartphone or tablet.
Answers to Troubleshooting Queries
Q4: My printer is not connecting to the Wi-Fi network. What should I do?
A4: Refer to the “Printer Not Connecting to Wi-Fi or Network” troubleshooting steps in this guide. Ensure that the printer and Wi-Fi router are functioning correctly, and verify network settings on the printer’s control panel.
Q5: I encountered a paper jam in my Brother MFC-J995DW printer. How do I clear it?
A5: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to clear paper jams carefully. Refer to the “Paper Jams and Other Hardware Issues” section for detailed steps on clearing paper jams and maintaining your printer.
Q6: What should I do if I encounter print quality issues such as faded prints or smudges?
A6: Check ink or toner levels, clean print heads, adjust print settings, and perform print head alignment as outlined in the “Print Quality Issues” troubleshooting section. These steps can help improve print quality.
Tips for Optimal Printer Performance
- Tip 1: Use Genuine Brother Cartridges: For best results and optimal performance, always use genuine Brother ink or toner cartridges compatible with your MFC-J995DW printer.
- Tip 2: Regular Maintenance: Perform regular maintenance tasks such as cleaning internal components, updating firmware, and aligning print heads to keep your printer in top condition.
- Tip 3: Keep Software Updated: Stay updated with the latest printer drivers, firmware, and software updates from Brother’s official website to ensure compatibility and performance improvements.
- Tip 4: Use High-Quality Paper: Use high-quality paper suitable for your printing needs to achieve professional-looking prints and prevent paper jams.
- Tip 5: Optimize Print Settings: Adjust print settings such as paper type, print quality, and color options based on the type of document or image you’re printing for optimal results.
- Tip 6: Contact Brother Support: If you encounter persistent issues or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact Brother’s customer support for expert help and guidance.
By following these FAQs, troubleshooting tips, and performance optimization strategies, you can make the most out of your Brother MFC-J995DW printer and enjoy seamless printing experiences.
Additional resources: Brother Printer Offline? Get Quick Fixes Here!
VIII. Conclusion
Congratulations on successfully setting up your Brother MFC-J995DW printer! In this guide, we’ve covered essential steps from unboxing and initial setup to troubleshooting common issues and optimizing printer performance. Let’s recap key points and emphasize the importance of following setup instructions for optimal performance.
Recap of Key Setup Steps
- Unboxing and Initial Setup: We started by guiding you through the unboxing process, checking for damages or missing parts, placing the printer in a suitable location, connecting power, and setting language, date, and time.
- Connecting to Wi-Fi or Network: Next, we covered connecting your printer to a Wi-Fi or wired network, ensuring seamless connectivity for wireless printing.
- Installing Printer Drivers: We walked you through downloading and installing the latest printer drivers from Brother’s website, crucial for effective communication between your printer and computer.
- Mobile Printing Setup: You learned how to install the Brother iPrint&Scan app on your mobile device and connect your printer for convenient mobile printing.
- Troubleshooting Common Issues: We provided troubleshooting steps for common issues like connectivity problems, driver installation errors, print quality issues, paper jams, and error codes.
Importance of Following Setup Instructions for Optimal Performance
Following setup instructions meticulously ensures that your Brother MFC-J995DW printer operates at its best. Proper setup not only enhances functionality but also contributes to print quality, ease of use, and long-term reliability. By paying attention to setup details, you can avoid potential issues and enjoy seamless printing experiences.
Encouragement to Reach Out to Brother Support for Further Assistance
If you encounter any challenges during setup or experience persistent issues with your Brother MFC-J995DW printer, don’t hesitate to reach out to Brother’s customer support. Their team of experts can provide further assistance, troubleshooting guidance, and solutions tailored to your specific needs. Remember, reliable support is just a call or click away.
In conclusion, investing time in setting up your Brother MFC-J995DW printer correctly pays off with efficient printing operations and optimal performance. We hope this guide has been helpful, and we encourage you to explore the full potential of your printer for all your printing needs.