Encountering a "Why is my brother printer in error state windows 11 computer can be frustrating, especially when you need to print important documents. This common issue can arise due to various reasons, but it is often fixable with a systematic approach. Follow these detailed steps to troubleshoot and resolve the problem effectively.

Step 1: Check Physical Connections

Before diving into software-related fixes, ensure all physical connections are secure.

1. Power Supply: Verify that your printer is properly plugged into a working power outlet and is turned on.
2. Cables: Ensure that the USB or Ethernet cables connecting your printer to the computer are firmly connected.
3. Wireless Connection: If you are using a wireless connection, make sure your printer is connected to the correct Wi-Fi network.

Step 2: Restart Devices

Restarting your devices can often resolve temporary issues.

1. Printer: Turn off your Brother printer, wait for a few seconds, and then turn it back on.
2. Computer: Restart your Windows 11 computer to clear any temporary glitches.

Step 3: Set as Default Printer

Sometimes, the error state occurs because the wrong printer is set as default.

1. Open Settings: Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
2. Set Default: Click on your Brother printer and select Set as default.

Step 4: Clear Print Queue

A jammed print queue can cause your Brother printer to be in an error state.

1. Open Print Queue: Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners, select your Brother printer, and click Open queue.
2. Clear Queue: Right-click on each print job and select Cancel.

Step 5: Update Printer Drivers

Outdated or corrupt printer drivers can lead to errors.

1. Device Manager: Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager.
2. Update Driver: Expand the Printers section, right-click on your Brother printer, and choose Update driver. Follow the prompts to search automatically for updated driver software.

Step 6: Run Printer Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a built-in troubleshooter that can help identify and fix printer issues.

1. Open Troubleshooter: Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
2. Run Troubleshooter: Find the Printer option and click Run. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 7: Reinstall Printer Drivers

If updating drivers doesn’t work, reinstalling them might.

1. Uninstall Driver: Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners, select your Brother printer, and click Remove device.
2. Reinstall Driver: Visit the Brother support website, download the latest drivers for your printer model, and install them.

Step 8: Check for Windows Updates

Ensure that your Windows 11 operating system is up to date.

1. Windows Update: Go to Settings > Windows Update and click Check for updates. Install any available updates.

Step 9: Verify Printer Status

Ensure that your printer is not in an error state or paused.

1. Open Print Queue: Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners, select your Brother printer, and click Open queue.
2. Check Status: Make sure that your printer status is set to Ready and not Paused or Offline.

Step 10: Check for Hardware Issues

Sometimes, the error state is due to hardware issues such as paper jams or low ink levels.

1. Paper Jams: Check for and clear any paper jams inside the printer.
2. Ink Levels: Ensure that ink or toner levels are adequate.

Step 11: Reset Printer

Resetting your Brother printer can sometimes resolve the error state.

1. Turn Off Printer: Power off your printer and unplug it from the power source.
2. Wait: Leave it unplugged for a few minutes.
3. Restart: Plug it back in and turn it on.

Step 12: Contact Brother Support

If none of the above steps work, it may be time to contact Brother support for further assistance.

1. Support Contact: Visit the Brother support website and find contact information for customer service. Provide them with details of the issue and the steps you have already taken.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the "brother printer says its in error state. Regular maintenance and updates can prevent such problems from recurring, ensuring that your printing experience remains smooth and hassle-free.