The Brother MFC 420CN driver lets Windows communicate with this network-capable multifunction printer, helping applications send print jobs and access supported device functions. For a network setup, the correct driver allows your computer to use the machine through its Ethernet connection rather than a direct USB cable.

Key Features

• Network printing support: Connects Windows applications to the Brother MFC 420CN over a local wired network.
• Print settings access: Provides controls for supported options such as paper size, media type, print quality, and color output.
• Scanning support with compatible software: A package that includes a scanner driver can enable document scanning; a print-only driver does not add this function.
• Device identification: Helps Windows recognize the printer correctly instead of relying on a generic driver with limited settings.

How to Install

1. Check your Windows version. Before downloading, confirm whether you use Windows 11, 10, 8, or 7 and check your system architecture. This is an older model, so verify that the selected package explicitly supports your operating system; full functionality may not be available on newer Windows versions.
2. Prepare the network connection. Turn on the Brother MFC 420CN and connect its Ethernet port to your router or network switch. Make sure your computer can reach the printer on the same local network.
3. Download and extract the package. Choose a compatible Brother driver and extract the files if necessary. Check whether the download includes printing only or additional scanning components.
4. Run the installer. Follow the prompts and select the network connection option when offered. If automatic discovery fails, use the printer’s IP address, available from its network settings or printed network configuration report.
5. Test the installation. Open Windows printer settings, select the Brother device, and print a test page. If you installed scanning software, test a scan separately to confirm that both functions work.

If Windows cannot find the printer, check the Ethernet cable and network settings before reinstalling. Avoid forcing a driver intended for a different Windows version, as installation alone does not guarantee reliable operation.

Common Issues and Fixes

• Install fails or stalls: Disconnect the MFC-420CN, remove old Brother MFC-420CN entries from Devices and Printers and Programs and Features, reboot, then run the Brother setup as administrator. If Windows blocks it, try Compatibility Mode for the last supported Windows version.
• Device not detected: For USB, connect directly to the PC, not a hub, and try another cable/port. For Ethernet, check the printer’s network link, assign a fixed IP, and allow Brother setup through Windows Firewall; add the printer by IP if discovery fails.
• Driver/version conflicts: Uninstall the Windows-built-in Brother driver and duplicate MFC-420CN queues, then install the full Brother package—printer, scanner, and fax—in one pass. Avoid mixing old and new driver versions; if scanning fails, reinstall the Brother scanner/WIA driver.