Gone are the days when printers needed to be tethered to your desk with a maze of cables. Wireless printers have become the go-to solution for homes, small offices, and businesses that want flexibility and convenience. Whether you’re printing from your laptop in the study or your mobile phone in the kitchen, wireless printing makes it simple.

For many Australians setting up a home office or streamlining their workspace, connecting a printer to Wi-Fi is a valuable upgrade. With a wireless setup, you can place the printer wherever it suits your space without worrying about cable reach.

If you’re in the market for a new wireless printer, TonerPrint offers a carefully curated selection of printers and multifunction devices from brands like Brother, Canon and HP. But first, let’s walk through the connection process to help you get up and running with ease.

Before You Start: What You’ll Need

Before diving into the setup, it’s essential to make sure you have everything ready. A smooth Wi-Fi connection process depends on a few key elements being in place. Skipping these checks may result in connection errors or delays.

At a minimum, you’ll need:

• A wireless printer with Wi-Fi functionality
  
• A stable Wi-Fi network and router
  
• The network name (SSID) and password
  
• A computer, tablet or smartphone connected to the same network
  
• Printer software or app from the manufacturer
  

If you’re unsure whether your printer supports wireless setup, check the product specifications or manual. Models like the Brother MFC-J4540DW, Canon PIXMA TS6360a, and HP DeskJet 4120e, available at TonerPrint, all come with built-in Wi-Fi and mobile printing capabilities.

Having these essentials at hand makes the setup process quicker and avoids unnecessary frustration. Next, let’s walk through the most common method of connecting a printer using its built-in control panel.

Method 1: Using the Printer’s Control Panel

The easiest way to connect many modern printers to Wi-Fi is through the printer’s own control panel. This method is ideal for models with an LCD or touchscreen display, as it allows direct access to network settings without needing a computer or phone.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Turn on your printer and ensure it is within range of your Wi-Fi router.
   
2. Access the settings menu on the printer’s display screen.
   
3. Navigate to Network Settings or Wi-Fi Setup.
   
4. Select Wireless Setup Wizard or Wi-Fi Network Setup.
   
5. A list of nearby Wi-Fi networks will appear. Choose your home or office network.
   
6. Enter your Wi-Fi password carefully using the on-screen keyboard.
   
7. Confirm the connection and wait for a success notification.
   

This process typically takes just a few minutes. After setup, your printer should display a confirmation message or print a network configuration page showing it’s successfully connected.

Printers with this feature include:

• Brother MFC-J4440DW and MFC-J4540DW
  
• Canon PIXMA TS6360a
  
• HP OfficeJet Pro 8020e
  

These models, available at TonerPrint, are designed for hassle-free setup and are well suited to both home and professional use.

If your printer does not have a screen or you’d prefer a simpler option, the next method using WPS might be more suitable.

Method 2: Using WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)

Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) is a quick and secure way to connect your printer to your wireless network without entering a password. This method is perfect for users who want a fast setup and have a compatible router and printer.

How WPS Works

WPS allows devices to connect to a Wi-Fi network simply by pressing a button—no password typing required. Most modern routers and many wireless printers include WPS support.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Turn on your printer and make sure it’s in a ready state.
   
2. Press the WPS button on your router. This will start the pairing mode, usually for about 2 minutes.
   
3. Press the WPS button on your printer. The exact button may be labelled ‘Wi-Fi’, have a network icon, or be found under a menu option like Wireless Setup > WPS.
   
4. The devices will now connect automatically. Once complete, a notification will appear on the printer or a confirmation page may print.
   

This method eliminates the need to input your Wi-Fi password and is especially helpful for devices with limited or no screen.

Printers That Support WPS Setup

• Canon PIXMA MG3660 and TS5360a
  
• Brother HL-L2350DW
  
• HP LaserJet M234sdwe
  

You can find many of these models, designed with user-friendly wireless setup options, at TonerPrint.

If your router does not support WPS or you prefer using your mobile device, the next method offers an excellent alternative.

Method 3: Using a Smartphone App

For users who prefer managing everything through their phone or tablet, setting up a printer using a manufacturer’s mobile app is a convenient and intuitive option. These apps guide you through the entire process, from unboxing to printing your first page.

Common Printer Apps:

• HP Smart for HP printers
  
• Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY for Canon models
  
• Brother iPrint&Scan for Brother printers
  

These apps are available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Download the app specific to your printer brand on your smartphone.
   
2. Open the app and select “Set Up a New Printer.”
   
3. Turn on the printer and place it near your router.
   
4. The app will automatically detect nearby printers. Select yours from the list.
   
5. Follow the prompts to connect the printer to your Wi-Fi network. You’ll be asked to enter your Wi-Fi password.
   
6. Once connected, you can print a test page directly from your phone.
   

These apps also allow you to check ink levels, order supplies, scan documents, and monitor printer status remotely.

Compatible Printers Available at TonerPrint:

• HP DeskJet 4120e – Ideal for home use with mobile printing and scanning features
  
• Canon PIXMA TS6360a – A compact all-in-one printer with smart app support
  
• Brother MFC-J4540DW – Versatile multifunction printer for office-grade printing
  

You can explore these models on TonerPrint’s printer range for mobile-friendly printing solutions.

Now that your printer is connected, let’s ensure everything works correctly with a quick verification step.

Installing Printer Software and Drivers

Even if your printer is connected to Wi-Fi, it won’t function properly until your computer recognises it. That’s where drivers and software come in. Drivers allow your computer or device to communicate with your printer, while bundled software often includes useful tools like scanning utilities or firmware updates.

How to Install Printer Software:

1. Visit the official website of your printer’s brand (e.g. HP, Canon, Brother).
   
2. Navigate to the ‘Support’ or ‘Drivers and Downloads’ section.
   
3. Enter your printer model (e.g. Canon PIXMA TS6360a, Brother MFC-J5740DW).
   
4. Select your operating system (Windows/macOS) and download the latest full software package.
   
5. Run the installer and follow the on-screen prompts. During installation, ensure you select the wireless setup option.
   

Some manufacturers offer auto-detection tools that scan your system and install everything needed. For example:

• HP Software and Driver Downloads
  
• Canon Drivers & Downloads
  
• Brother Downloads
  

Most printers sold on TonerPrint come with a setup guide and links to driver downloads, making this step straightforward.

If you’re installing on multiple devices (e.g. your laptop and desktop), repeat the process for each one. Once complete, test your setup to confirm everything is working correctly.

Verifying the Connection

Once your printer is connected to Wi-Fi and the software is installed, it’s time to confirm that everything is working as expected. Verifying the connection ensures that your printer can communicate with your network and devices without interruption.

Steps to Confirm the Connection:

1. Print a Network Configuration Page
   
   • Most wireless printers can print a report showing current network settings.
     
   • This option is usually available through the control panel under Network Settings or Wi-Fi Setup.
     
   • The page should display your network name (SSID) and indicate the connection status as “Connected”.
     
2. Print a Test Page
   
   • On Windows: Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners, select your printer, and click Manage, then Print a test page.
     
   • On macOS: Go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners, select your printer and choose Print Test Page.
     
   • From a mobile device: Use the app you installed earlier to send a quick print command.
     
3. Try Printing a Document or Web Page
   
   • Open any file and choose Print. Make sure your wireless printer appears in the list of available printers.
     
   • Select it and print as usual. If the job completes successfully, your printer is ready for daily use.
     

If everything works, congratulations—you’ve successfully connected your printer to Wi-Fi.

Printers like the Canon PIXMA TS6360a, HP LaserJet M234sdwe, and Brother MFC-J5740DW (available from TonerPrint) include built-in tools to help with this step, and often display visual indicators such as Wi-Fi signal icons or LED lights.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best instructions, wireless printer setup can sometimes hit a snag. Fortunately, most issues are easy to fix once you understand the root cause.

Common Wi-Fi Printer Problems and Solutions

1. Printer Not Connecting to Wi-Fi

• Solution: Double-check that you’re connecting to the correct Wi-Fi network and that the password is accurate. Restart your printer and router, then try again.
  

2. Printer Is Connected, But Not Detected by the Computer

• Solution: Make sure you’ve installed the correct drivers. If you recently changed routers or Wi-Fi settings, you may need to reconnect the printer to the new network.
  

3. Weak Wi-Fi Signal

• Solution: Move your printer closer to the router to ensure a strong signal. Avoid placing the printer near walls or large metal objects that may interfere with signal strength.
  

4. WPS Setup Fails

• Solution: Ensure both your router and printer support WPS. If unsure, use the control panel or mobile app method instead.
  

5. Print Jobs Stuck or Delayed

• Solution: Restart the printer spooler on your computer and clear the print queue. This is common when using older software or after firmware updates.
  

6. Printer Keeps Disconnecting

• Solution: Set a static IP address for your printer via your router settings or the printer’s control panel. This prevents it from changing addresses each time your network refreshes.
  

Printers available at TonerPrint, such as the Brother HL-L2350DW or HP OfficeJet Pro 8020e, are designed with robust network settings that minimise these issues and support easy troubleshooting through display prompts or companion apps.

Tips for Maintaining a Strong Wireless Printing Experience

Once your wireless printer is set up and working, keeping the connection stable and efficient will ensure hassle-free printing over time. Here are a few best practices to get the most from your setup.

Tips to Optimise Wireless Printing

1. Place Your Printer Strategically
Position your printer within a reasonable range of your Wi-Fi router. Avoid placing it in enclosed cabinets, behind thick walls or near other electronic devices that may cause interference.

2. Keep Firmware Up to Date
Printer manufacturers regularly release firmware updates to improve connectivity and fix bugs. Use the printer’s app or control panel to check for updates periodically.

3. Assign a Static IP Address
In office environments or for frequent users, assigning a static IP address through your router can prevent the printer from changing network addresses, which can disrupt printing.

4. Restart Devices Occasionally
Just like computers, printers and routers benefit from a quick reboot every now and then. This can resolve lag or unexpected errors.

5. Use Dual-Band Routers
If your network supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz, connect your printer to the band that offers the best signal stability. Many printers are optimised for 2.4GHz.

6. Secure Your Network
Always use a strong Wi-Fi password and consider enabling WPA2 or WPA3 encryption to protect your devices and prevent unauthorised access.

Models like the Canon MAXIFY GX6060 and Brother MFC-J5740DW, available from TonerPrint, include advanced connectivity options and support features that enhance long-term performance and security.

Recommended Wireless Printers from TonerPrint

If you’re in the market for a reliable wireless printer, it helps to start with trusted models that offer easy setup, consistent performance, and the features you need—whether for home, study, or business use. Below are some top-rated options available from TonerPrint.

Top Wireless Printers to Consider

1. Brother MFC-J4540DW

• Ideal for home offices and small businesses
  
• Wireless and mobile printing support
  
• High page yield and low cost per page
  
• Intuitive touchscreen interface for easy setup
  

2. Canon PIXMA TS6360a

• Sleek and compact with all-in-one functionality
  
• Prints high-quality photos and documents
  
• App-controlled setup with Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY
  
• Perfect for students and creative professionals
  

3. HP DeskJet 4120e

• Affordable wireless printer for everyday use
  
• Includes scanning, copying and mobile printing
  
• Works seamlessly with HP Smart App
  
• A smart choice for casual printing at home
  

4. Canon MAXIFY GX6060

• High-capacity refillable ink tank system
  
• Outstanding for small business printing needs
  
• Ethernet, dual-band Wi-Fi, and USB connectivity
  
• Fast print speeds with crisp colour output
  

5. HP LaserJet M234sdwe

• Compact mono laser printer with Wi-Fi and scanning
  
• Best for fast, reliable black and white document printing
  
• Includes HP+ smart features and cloud-based functionality
  

All of these models are available through TonerPrint, where you can explore detailed product specs and expert recommendations. Whether you need vibrant photo prints, multi-page reports, or just a reliable device for occasional printing, there’s a wireless printer that suits your needs.

Making Wireless Printing Easy

Setting up your printer to connect wirelessly is no longer a task limited to tech experts. With clear instructions and the right equipment, anyone can enjoy the freedom of printing from anywhere in the house—or even remotely via mobile apps and cloud services.

Whether you’re a student printing assignments, a business owner managing reports, or a parent handling school documents, having a dependable wireless printer saves time, reduces clutter, and improves flexibility.

By following the step-by-step methods outlined above—whether via the control panel, WPS, or a mobile app—you can quickly and confidently get your printer online. And by applying best practices such as updating firmware, securing your network, and placing your printer strategically, you’ll maintain a stable and efficient setup over time.

If you’re still choosing the right printer for your needs, TonerPrint offers a wide selection of wireless and multifunction printers backed by expert guidance and Australian support.

Wireless printing should feel effortless—and with the right approach, it can be.