HackMDHow do I reset my Brother printer?
Brother Printer Reset |1-877-331-5006 | Brother Printer Support
Resetting your Brother printer can help resolve various issues such as connectivity problems, persistent error messages, or print quality issues. Whether you're trying to restore default settings, fix a Wi-Fi issue, or clear a toner error, Brother printers offer multiple reset options. This guide explains everything you need to know about resetting your Brother printer safely and effectively.
Types of Resets Available on Brother Printers
Before performing a reset, it’s important to understand the different reset types available on Brother printers:
Factory Reset: Restores all printer settings to default, including language, network, and system settings.
Network Reset: Only resets the printer’s network settings, such as Wi-Fi or Ethernet configurations.
Drum Reset: Resets the drum counter after installing a new drum unit.
Toner Reset: Allows the printer to recognize a new toner cartridge when it fails to do so.
Ink Cartridge Reset: Clears ink level warnings for inkjet printers.
Partial Reset: Only some models support this; resets specific functions without affecting others.
⚠️ Important Precautions Before Resetting
Backup custom settings if applicable (especially for network configurations).
Resetting is irreversible – make sure this step is necessary.
Do not power off the device during the reset process.
How to Perform a Factory Reset on a Brother Printer
Factory reset instructions vary slightly depending on the model. Below are general and model-specific steps.
✅ For Brother Printers With a Touchscreen:
Power on the printer.
Press Settings (gear icon) on the touchscreen.
Navigate to All Settings > Initial Setup > Reset.
Choose Factory Reset.
Confirm the reset when prompted.
The printer will reboot.
✅ For Monochrome Laser Printers (e.g., HL-L2350DW, HL-L2390DW):
Turn off the printer.
Hold the Go button (or 1-877-331-5006Wi-Fi button on some models).
Power on the printer while holding the button.
Keep holding the button until all lights turn on, then release it.
The printer enters factory reset mode.
✅ For Older LCD Models (e.g., DCP, MFC series):
Press Menu > Initial Setup.
Select Reset > Factory Reset.
Press OK.
Press 1 to confirm (or Yes, depending on your model).
The printer will restart.
How to Perform a Network Reset
Use this reset if your printer won’t connect to Wi-Fi or you're switching networks.
🛠️ Steps:
Go to Settings > All Settings.
Navigate to Network > Network Reset.
Press Yes to confirm.
The printer will reboot and clear all wireless settings.
You’ll need to reconnect to your Wi-Fi using the Wireless Setup Wizard after the reset.
How to Reset the Drum Counter
When you replace the drum unit, the counter must be reset to stop warning messages.
🖨️ For Most Brother Laser Printers:
Open the front cover (where the toner/drum is inserted).
Press and hold the Go button (or OK, depending on the model) for about 4–5 seconds.
Wait until "Drum Reset" or "Reset Drum?" appears.
Press Yes or 1 to confirm.
Each model may have a slight variation in this process, but it must be done after installing a new drum.
How to Reset the Toner Counter (Manual Toner Reset)
If your printer still shows “Replace Toner” after replacing the cartridge:
🖨️ For HL-L2370DW, HL-L2350DW and Similar:
Open the front cover.
Press Back or X to clear messages.
Press *** 0 0** quickly (you may have to press “Stop/Exit” instead of “*” on some models).
Select your toner type:
TNR-HC = High Yield
TNR-STD = Standard Yield
Press OK, then close the cover.
This trick allows the printer to recognize a newly installed cartridge.
How to Reset Ink Cartridge on Inkjet Models
Some Brother inkjet printers may not recognize new cartridges. To reset:
Remove the cartridge.
Turn the printer off and unplug it.
Wait 1–2 minutes.
Reinsert the cartridge and power the printer back on.
If needed, clean the contacts using a lint-free cloth and alcohol.
Alternatively, use the Brother Status Monitor software to refresh ink levels.
Partial or Soft Reset (If Supported)
Some models allow a soft reset without wiping everything:
Unplug the printer while it is on.
Hold the Power button for 10–15 seconds.
Plug the printer back in and turn it on.
This can clear minor firmware glitches.
Using the Brother Software to Reset
Brother also provides software tools like BRAdmin Professional, Brother Utilities, and iPrint&Scan, which allow you to:
Reset network settings
Run diagnostics
Update firmware
Monitor supplies
Download tools from https://support.brother.com based on your printer model.
Resetting Firmware (Advanced Users Only)
Brother firmware updates can be installed or reset using a USB connection or over the network. This is risky and typically only recommended when:
The printer is bricked due to a failed update.
You're instructed by Brother support.
Use the Firmware Update Tool available on Brother’s support page.
Related Blog:
When Should You Reset Your Brother Printer?
Perform a reset if you experience:
Unfixable error messages
Network/Wi-Fi issues after router changes
New drum or toner not being recognized
You’re selling or giving away the printer
Persistent printing glitches
Avoid resetting unnecessarily, as it erases settings you may want to keep.
When to Contact Support Instead
If resets don’t solve your issue, it’s best to contact Brother support:
Call 1-877-BROTHER (1-877-276-8437)
Visit: https://www.brother-usa.com/support
Conclusion
Resetting a Brother printer is a powerful way to fix common problems and return the machine to working order. Whether you're resetting for network setup, clearing an error message, or preparing the printer for resale, the process is usually quick and safe when done properly. Just be sure to follow the correct reset procedure for your model, and keep backups of any important settings if needed.
