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Forum Discussion
tomdw
Sep 02, 2019Follower
Can't connect to printer with Orbi
We recently moved, and I upgraded to an Orbi router from a single-band Belkin. Before we moved, our Brother printer worked just fine; now, though, even though I can find the printer with my computer, I constantly get a "printer is in error state message."
I can easily connect the printer to the network, and the wifi indicator shows that it's connected. The problem comes when I try to add the printer to my computer--it has never worked.
I've reset both the printer and Orbi to factory settings. I've used the cd that came with the printer and I've downloaded the drivers after deleting them from my computer. I've tried WPS and I've tried adding it through the IP address. Computers aren't difficult for me usually, but this problem has me extremely frustrated.
I even bought a new printer (also a Brother) and tried to install that one, but no luck over this network.
Any suggestions? I'm running Windows 10 with the latest updates. I have a Netgear modem and the Orbi router. I really have to have these printers set up (I'm a teacher), but I've already spent so much time trying that I really can't afford to waste any more time.
The Orbi is two years old, recently restored to factory settings.
Thanks in advance!
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I typed this into Google: "windows 10" "printer is in error state" (including the quotes).
Got tons of responses about things to check on the printer.
(Hard to believe that two printers could have the same issue, so.....)
How was the Orbi set up? (web interface or "app"?)
I always use the web interface, but one time I was downstairs and wanted to do something, so grabbed my tablet and the Orbi app. Found later that *somehow* the app had changed my Orbi security to "New Devices cannot connect." Previously, it was set up to "allow new devices to connect." There is also this stupid slider control about "Pause", which I have no idea what it means.
Orbi's "not connect" is misleading. The device WILL connect and get an IP address, it just isn't allowed to DO anything.
So, I would first use a web browser, connect to the Orbi, and navigate to Advanced Tab->Security->Access Control and see what is checked (and what isn't).
p.s. Sorry about the rant over the "app". I am sure it is useful for a lot of users.