How to Scan from Brother Printer to Computer – Step-by-Step Guide





    Dial 1-888-966-6097 If you’ve recently set up your Brother printer and are wondering how to scan documents or photos directly to your computer, you’re not alone. Whether you're using Windows or macOS, Brother printers offer user-friendly scanning options through the Control Center software, iPrint&Scan app, or the printer's control panel.

    In this article, we’ll walk you through how to scan from a Brother printer to your computer, including wireless and USB scanning methods for both Windows and Mac users.

    ✅ What You’ll Need Before You Start

    Before scanning, ensure the following:

    • Your Brother printer is installed correctly and connected to your PC or Mac (via USB or Wi-Fi)

    • You’ve installed Brother drivers and software

    • Your computer and printer are on the same network (for wireless scanning)

    You can download the required software from the official Brother support website:

    🖨️ Method 1: Scan Using Brother ControlCenter Software (Windows Only)

    Brother’s ControlCenter4 software allows you to scan and manage documents with ease.

    📌 Steps to Scan:

    1. Launch ControlCenter4

      • Go to Start Menu > Brother > ControlCenter4

      • Select "Advanced Mode" for full functionality

    2. Place your document

      • Lift the scanner lid and place the document face down on the scanner glass

      • Or, use the ADF (Automatic Document Feeder) if your model supports it

    3. Click on Scan Options

      • Choose "Scan to File," "Scan to Image," or "Scan to Email" based on your need

    4. Adjust Scan Settings

      • Set file type (PDF, JPEG, etc.), resolution, destination folder, and other preferences

    5. Click Scan

      • Your scanned file will appear in the folder you selected

    📂 Tip: Set up a default destination folder for easy access to scanned files.

    🍎 Method 2: Scan on Mac Using Brother iPrint&Scan App

    If you're using macOS, Brother provides the iPrint&Scan app for scanning and managing files.

    📌 Steps to Scan on macOS:

    1. Download and install the iPrint&Scan app from the Brother website

    2. Open the app and select your Brother printer from the list

    3. Click "Scan" > "Document Scan" or "Image Scan"

    4. Place the document on the scanner bed or ADF

    5. Adjust settings:

      • Choose color/greyscale, resolution, and file type

    6. Click "Start Scan"

    📁 The file will be saved to your Mac’s Downloads folder or a folder you specify.

    🌐 Method 3: Scan Using Brother Printer’s Control Panel (Windows or Mac)

    You can also scan directly from the printer if it's connected to your network or computer.

    📌 Steps:

    1. Load the document onto the scanner bed or ADF

    2. On the printer control panel, select "Scan"

    3. Choose the "Scan to PC" or "Scan to Email/Network" option

    4. Select your computer name (shown if connected via network)

    5. Press Start

    📤 The scanned document will be sent to your computer’s default folder or email software, depending on your selection.

    🛠️ Troubleshooting Common Scanning Issues

    Here are some quick fixes if scanning isn’t working:

    • ✔️ Make sure your printer is online and not showing offline

    • 🔄 Restart the printer and computer

    • 🌐 Ensure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network

    • 🔧 Reinstall Brother drivers and software from the official website

    • ✅ For network scanners, enable network scanning settings in printer preferences

    📂 Where Do Scanned Files Go?

    Depending on your scan method:

    • ControlCenter: You can customize the folder (e.g., Desktop, Documents)

    • iPrint&Scan: Defaults to Downloads (can be changed)

    • Scan to PC (via control panel): Usually saved in the Brother folder inside Documents

    ❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Q1. Can I scan from Brother printer to email directly?
    Yes, if your printer supports it. Use the control panel and set up email server settings.

    Q2. How do I scan multiple pages into one file?
    Use the ADF and select multi-page PDF in the scan settings.

    Q3. Why is my computer not showing up on the printer’s scan list?
    Make sure both devices are on the same network, and that the Brother ControlCenter or iPrint&Scan app is running in the background.

    Q4. Can I scan over USB instead of Wi-Fi?
    Yes, simply connect the printer via USB and follow the same scan instructions.

    📌 Conclusion

    Scanning from a Brother printer to your computer is easy once your device is set up correctly. Whether you're using Windows or macOS, Brother provides dedicated apps and built-in features to make scanning seamless. Use this guide to scan documents, images, or multiple pages quickly and organize your digital workflow with confidence.

    Published