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If your Brother scanner is not working on Windows 11, it can be frustrating, especially when you need to scan important documents quickly. Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can follow to fix this issue. This guide will walk you through each solution clearly and carefully.

Many scanner problems are caused by minor software glitches or connection issues. Taking the time to check these basics often solves the problem without needing technical expertise.

We will start with the easiest fixes and gradually move to more advanced options. This way, you can stop as soon as your scanner works again.

By following the steps below, you can get your Brother scanner back to normal and scanning smoothly on your Windows 11 PC.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

• Check Connections: Ensure your Brother scanner is properly connected to your computer via USB or network. Loose cables or disconnected Wi-Fi can cause scanning failures.
• Power On: Make sure the scanner is turned on and ready.
• Restart: Sometimes, simply restarting your computer and scanner can clear temporary errors.
• Windows Updates: Confirm your Windows 11 system is up to date. Updates often fix compatibility issues.
• Brother Software: Ensure the Brother scanner software or drivers are installed correctly.

Step 1: Restart the Brother Scanner and Windows Scan App

Sometimes, the simplest solution is the most effective. Restarting both your scanner and the scanning application can clear minor software glitches.

1. Turn off your Brother scanner and unplug it from the power source.
2. Wait for about 30 seconds before plugging it back in and turning it on.
3. Close the Windows Scan app or any other scanning software you are using.
4. Open the app again and try scanning.

This step helps reset the hardware and software communication, which often resolves connection hiccups.

Step 2: Check Scanner Connection and USB Port

If your scanner is connected via USB, sometimes the port or cable can be the cause.

1. Disconnect the USB cable from both the scanner and the computer.
2. Inspect the cable for any visible damage or wear.
3. Reconnect the cable firmly on both ends.
4. If possible, try a different USB port on your computer.

Using a different USB port or cable can solve detection problems caused by faulty hardware.

Step 3: Run the Windows Troubleshooter for Scanners

Windows 11 includes built-in troubleshooters to detect and fix common scanner issues automatically.

1. Click the Start button and select Settings.
2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
3. Find Printer or Scanner in the list and click Run.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting.

The troubleshooter checks for driver problems, device conflicts, or incorrect settings and tries to fix them automatically.

Step 4: Update or Reinstall Brother Scanner Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers are common reasons why scanners stop working.

How to Update Drivers

1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
2. Expand the Imaging devices or Printers section.
3. Right-click your Brother scanner and choose Update driver.
4. Select Search automatically for drivers and wait for Windows to find updates.
5. Restart your computer after installing the updates.

How to Reinstall Drivers

1. In Device Manager, right-click the Brother scanner and select Uninstall device.
2. Confirm any prompts and unplug the scanner from the PC.
3. Restart your computer.
4. Visit the official Brother Support website.
5. Download the latest driver compatible with Windows 11 for your scanner model.
6. Install the driver and reconnect your scanner.

Fresh drivers ensure compatibility and fix bugs that may cause scanning issues.

Step 5: Check Windows Image Acquisition (WIA) Service

WIA is a Windows service that supports communication between your PC and imaging devices like scanners. If this service is stopped, your scanner might not work.

1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Scroll down and find Windows Image Acquisition (WIA).
3. Right-click it and select Properties.
4. Set the Startup type to Automatic.
5. If the service is stopped, click Start.
6. Click Apply and then OK.
7. Try scanning again.

Ensuring WIA is running allows your scanner and Windows to communicate properly.

Advanced Option: Use Brother iPrint&Scan Software

If the default Windows Scan app still doesn’t work, Brother provides its own scanning software called iPrint&Scan. It often offers better compatibility and additional features.

1. Download Brother iPrint&Scan from the official website.
2. Install the application on your Windows 11 PC.
3. Open the software and try scanning your documents.

This alternative method can bypass Windows app limitations and offer improved scanner control.

FAQs

Why does my Brother scanner show “device not found”?

This usually means your PC cannot detect the scanner. Check all cables, ensure the scanner is powered on, and verify drivers are installed correctly.

Can I use a wireless Brother scanner with Windows 11?

Yes, most Brother scanners support wireless connections. Make sure your scanner and PC are connected to the same Wi-Fi network and the correct drivers are installed.

How do I know if the scanner driver is compatible with Windows 11?

Check the Brother official support website for drivers labeled specifically for Windows 11 or compatible with the latest Windows versions.

Is it necessary to disable antivirus when scanning?

Usually not. But if scanning fails repeatedly, temporarily disabling antivirus may help identify if it is blocking the scanner software.

Can I scan without installing Brother software?

Windows 11 has basic scanning capability, but installing Brother’s software ensures full functionality and better performance.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and your Brother scanner still does not work on Windows 11, consider these last options:

• Contact Brother Support: Visit Brother’s official support page for help, warranty information, or repair services.
• Try on Another PC: Connect the scanner to a different computer to check if the problem is with the scanner itself.
• Check for Hardware Issues: If the scanner is old or physically damaged, professional servicing or replacement might be necessary.

Conclusion

Fixing a Brother scanner that won’t work on Windows 11 often requires just a few simple steps. Start by checking connections and restarting devices, then move on to updating drivers and verifying system services. Using Brother’s own software can also improve compatibility and scanning performance.

Following this step-by-step guide will help you identify and resolve most issues, saving time and frustration. Remember, patience and careful troubleshooting are key to restoring your scanner’s functionality.