# 1-866-203-7571 What to do When Brother Printer is in Error State?

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

Printers have become indispensable in our daily lives — whether for personal, office, or academic use. Among the most trusted brands, **Brother printers** are known for their reliability and print quality. However, even the most dependable machines may occasionally display an “**Error State**” message.

If your Brother printer shows a message like **“Printer in Error State”**, **“Offline,”** or **“Cannot print due to an error,”** you’re not alone. This frustrating message can appear for multiple reasons — from minor software glitches to deeper hardware or connection problems.

Don’t worry — in this complete guide, we’ll help you understand **what causes the Brother printer error state**, and **how to fix it** step-by-step on both **Windows and Mac** computers.

If at any point you feel stuck, you can contact **Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571** for instant help from certified printer experts.

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

## **1. What Does “Brother Printer in Error State” Mean?**

When your Brother printer is in an **Error State**, it means that the device cannot process the print job because of an internal or external issue. The error could be caused by:

* A faulty connection (USB or Wi-Fi)
* Outdated or corrupted printer drivers
* Software conflicts
* Paper jam or empty ink/toner cartridges
* Printer spooler service issues
* Firmware errors

The message typically appears in Windows or macOS notifications as:

> “Brother printer is in an error state. Check the printer and try again.”

This error blocks all printing tasks until it’s resolved.

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

## **2. Common Reasons Behind Brother Printer Error State**

Before jumping into the solutions, it’s important to understand the root causes behind this problem. Here are the most common ones:

### **2.1 Connection Problems**

If your Brother printer is not properly connected to your PC or network, it may enter an error state.
Causes:

* Loose USB cables
* Damaged ports
* Unstable Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection
* Printer not connected to the same network as your PC

### **2.2 Outdated or Corrupted Printer Drivers**

Drivers act as a bridge between your printer and computer. If they’re missing, outdated, or corrupted, your printer can’t communicate properly with the system.

### **2.3 Paper Jam or Cartridge Issues**

Mechanical issues like **paper jams**, **low ink**, or **incorrect cartridge installation** often cause the printer to display an error.

### **2.4 Software or Firmware Errors**

Printer firmware ensures the machine runs efficiently. Bugs or outdated firmware can trigger random error states.

### **2.5 Print Spooler Service Failure (Windows)**

The print spooler manages print jobs in Windows. If it crashes or hangs, your printer can’t process new tasks.

### **2.6 Hardware or Sensor Malfunctions**

Defective sensors or hardware faults (such as tray sensors or rollers) can also trigger the error message.

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

## **3. Preliminary Checks Before Fixing the Error**

Before diving into advanced fixes, perform these **basic checks**:

1. **Restart your printer and computer.**

* Power off both devices for 1–2 minutes.
* Reconnect and turn them on again.
* Try printing a test page.

2. **Check all cables and connections.**

* Ensure the USB cable is properly inserted.
* For wireless printers, make sure Wi-Fi is stable.

3. **Verify ink or toner levels.**

* Refill or replace cartridges if necessary.
* Make sure they’re installed correctly.

4. **Check for paper jams.**

* Open the tray and gently remove jammed paper.
* Clean the rollers if needed.

5. **Check for blinking lights or error codes.**

* Note the light pattern and refer to your Brother printer manual or the official website for meaning.

If the issue persists after these checks, proceed with the detailed troubleshooting steps below.

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

## **4. How to Fix Brother Printer in Error State on Windows (Step-by-Step Guide)**

### **Step 1: Check the Printer Connection**

* **For USB printers:**

* Unplug and replug the USB cable.
* Try a different USB port on your computer.
* Avoid using USB hubs — connect directly to your PC.

* **For wireless printers:**

* Make sure your printer and PC are on the **same Wi-Fi network**.
* Restart your Wi-Fi router.
* Reconnect your printer to the network using the printer control panel:

1. Go to **Menu > Network > WLAN > Setup Wizard.**
2. Choose your Wi-Fi and enter the password.
* Print a **Network Configuration Page** to verify the connection.

If your printer is offline, right-click on it in **Devices and Printers** and select **“Use Printer Online.”**

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

### **Step 2: Restart the Print Spooler Service**

This fix resolves most Windows-related print errors.

1. Press **Windows + R** → type **services.msc** → press **Enter.**
2. Find and double-click **Print Spooler.**
3. Click **Stop**, wait a few seconds, then click **Start** again.
4. Set **Startup Type** to **Automatic.**
5. Click **Apply** and **OK.**

Now, restart your computer and try printing again.

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

### **Step 3: Update or Reinstall Brother Printer Drivers**

Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause communication failures.

1. Press **Windows + X** → select **Device Manager.**
2. Expand **Printers** or **Print queues.**
3. Right-click your Brother printer → choose **Update driver.**
4. Select **Search automatically for drivers.**

If the issue continues:

* Uninstall the printer driver.
* Visit **support.brother.com** → enter your printer model.
* Download the latest driver for your Windows version.
* Reinstall the driver and restart your system.

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

### **Step 4: Run Windows Troubleshooter**

1. Open **Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners.**
2. Select your Brother printer.
3. Click **Manage > Run the troubleshooter.**

Follow the on-screen instructions to detect and fix issues automatically.

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

### **Step 5: Check for Windows Updates**

Sometimes, missing updates cause system-level conflicts.

* Go to **Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates.**
* Install any pending updates.
* Restart your computer.

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

### **Step 6: Set Your Brother Printer as Default**

1. Open **Control Panel > Devices and Printers.**
2. Right-click your Brother printer.
3. Choose **Set as Default Printer.**

If multiple printers are listed, remove the unused ones to avoid confusion.

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

### **Step 7: Clear the Print Queue**

Stuck print jobs can trigger error states.

1. Open **Control Panel > Devices and Printers.**
2. Right-click your Brother printer → choose **See what’s printing.**
3. Select **Cancel all documents.**
4. Restart the **Print Spooler** again.

Try printing a new document to confirm.

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

### **Step 8: Update Printer Firmware**

Firmware updates fix bugs and enhance printer performance.

1. Visit **support.brother.com.**
2. Search for your printer model.
3. Download and install the **Firmware Update Tool.**
4. Follow the on-screen steps to complete the process.

Once updated, restart your printer and computer.

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

### **Step 9: Disable Antivirus or Firewall Temporarily**

Sometimes, third-party antivirus or firewall software blocks printer communication.
To test:

* Temporarily disable the antivirus/firewall.
* Attempt to print.
* If printing works, whitelist your Brother printer software.

*(Remember to re-enable your antivirus after testing.)*

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

### **Step 10: Check for Hardware or Sensor Issues**

If all else fails:

* Ensure no debris is stuck inside.
* Clean paper rollers with a lint-free cloth.
* Replace damaged cables or trays.
* Reset your printer (see next step).

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

## **5. Reset Brother Printer to Factory Settings**

Performing a reset can clear internal faults causing the error.

### **Steps to Reset Brother Printer:**

1. Turn off the printer.
2. Hold the **Menu** button while turning it on.
3. Navigate to **Initial Setup > Reset > Factory Reset.**
4. Confirm with **OK**.

Your printer will reboot and return to its default state.
Reconfigure the network and try printing again.

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

## **6. Fix Brother Printer in Error State on Mac**

If you’re a macOS user, follow these steps:

### **Step 1: Check Printer Connection**

* Go to **Apple menu > System Settings > Printers & Scanners.**
* Ensure your Brother printer is listed and connected.
* If not, click **+** and add your printer manually.

### **Step 2: Reset Printing System**

This refreshes all printer settings.

1. Go to **System Settings > Printers & Scanners.**
2. Right-click (or Control-click) in the printer list.
3. Select **Reset printing system.**
4. Re-add your Brother printer.

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

### **Step 3: Update Printer Driver on Mac**

1. Visit **support.brother.com.**
2. Enter your printer model.
3. Download the **macOS printer driver** and install it.
4. Restart your Mac after installation.

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

### **Step 4: Clear Print Queue**

1. Go to **Printers & Scanners.**
2. Select your Brother printer → click **Open Print Queue.**
3. Cancel all pending jobs.

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

### **Step 5: Reset Brother Printer Network Settings (for Wi-Fi printers)**

1. On the printer control panel, go to **Network > Reset Network.**
2. Reconnect to your Wi-Fi via **Setup Wizard.**
3. Add your printer again on the Mac.

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

### **Step 6: Update macOS**

Outdated macOS versions may conflict with printer drivers.

* Go to **System Settings > General > Software Update.**
* Install any available updates.

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

## **7. How to Fix Brother Printer Error State for Wireless Models**

Wireless Brother printers can show an error state due to poor connectivity or IP conflicts.

### **Step 1: Check Network Status**

* Print a **Network Configuration Page** from the control panel.
* Verify that the **Connection Status = Active.**

### **Step 2: Assign Static IP**

Dynamic IPs sometimes cause communication drops.

1. Access your router’s web interface.
2. Assign a **static IP** to your Brother printer.
3. Reconnect using that IP in your printer settings.

### **Step 3: Reinstall Wireless Drivers**

* Uninstall existing printer software.
* Download and install **Wireless Full Driver & Software Package** from Brother’s official site.

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

## **8. Error State Codes on Brother Printers (and What They Mean)**

| **Error Code** | **Meaning** | **Solution** |
| --------------- | --------------------- | ----------------------------------- |
| **Error E50** | Fuser malfunction | Power off for 15 mins, then restart |
| **Error E51** | Laser unit issue | Contact Brother support |
| **Error E52** | Polygon motor failure | Service required |
| **Error 46** | Ink absorber full | Reset purge counter |
| **Error 4F** | Print head failure | Replace print head |
| **Error 48** | Mechanical issue | Power cycle or service required |
| **Error TS-02** | Wi-Fi not found | Reconnect to correct network |
| **Error TS-07** | Authentication failed | Re-enter Wi-Fi password |

If you encounter any of these, follow the matching solution — or call **1-866-203-7571** for immediate expert support.

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

## **9. Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Error States**

To keep your Brother printer error-free, follow these preventive steps:

1. **Update Drivers Regularly:**
Check for updates every few months via the Brother website.

2. **Avoid Overloading Paper Tray:**
Overloading causes frequent jams and mechanical stress.

3. **Use Genuine Ink/Toner Cartridges:**
Non-original supplies may cause recognition errors.

4. **Keep the Printer Clean:**
Wipe rollers and interior parts monthly to prevent dust buildup.

5. **Maintain Stable Power Supply:**
Use a surge protector to avoid sudden shutdowns.

6. **Restart Periodically:**
Restarting clears minor software bugs.

7. **Avoid Unstable Wi-Fi Networks:**
A strong network ensures seamless printing and prevents dropouts.

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

## **10. When to Contact Professional Support (1-866-203-7571)**

If you’ve tried all the above fixes but your **Brother printer is still in error state**, it may need expert diagnosis. Issues like **firmware corruption, sensor failure, or mainboard damage** require professional tools to fix.

Call **Brother Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571** for:

* Remote troubleshooting and setup
* Driver reinstallation support
* Firmware updates
* Fixing hardware errors
* Step-by-step repair guidance

Brother-certified experts can quickly identify the root cause and help restore your printer to working condition.

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

## **11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)**

### **Q1: Why does my Brother printer keep going into error state?**

**Answer:** It’s usually caused by driver conflicts, unstable connections, or mechanical issues like paper jams.

### **Q2: Can I fix Brother printer error state without reinstalling drivers?**

**Answer:** Sometimes yes — restarting the printer, clearing the spooler, or resetting network settings often works.

### **Q3: How do I know if it’s a hardware problem?**

**Answer:** If you see physical errors like beeping sounds, lights flashing, or mechanical jams, it’s likely hardware-related.

### **Q4: Does resetting the printer delete settings?**

**Answer:** Yes. Factory reset erases network and custom configurations, returning it to default.

### **Q5: Is the error state fixable remotely?**

**Answer:** Absolutely! By calling **1-866-203-7571**, you can receive step-by-step assistance remotely from certified technicians.

**Brother Printer Support** at **1-866-203-7571**

## **12. Conclusion**

A **Brother printer in error state** can disrupt your work, but the good news is that it’s **usually easy to fix**. Most of the time, simple actions like checking connections, updating drivers, restarting the print spooler, or resetting your printer can resolve the issue.

If you’re still facing the problem after trying the above methods, it’s best to seek professional assistance. Contact **Brother Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571** — available 24/7 for fast, reliable help.

**Key Takeaways**

* Always start with basic checks — power, cables, ink, and paper.
* Update printer drivers and firmware regularly.
* Restart your print spooler and clear the queue.
* Reset your printer if the issue persists.
* Call **1-866-203-7571** for expert Brother printer support.