Why Brother MFC‑J4355DW Printer Shows Offline

If your Brother MFC‑J4355DW printer suddenly stops printing, shows offline, or is not responding, it can be frustrating. Many times, these problems are caused by outdated, missing, or broken software inside your computer that helps it communicate with your printer. Don’t worry, you don’t need to be a tech expert to fix it. In this guide, we will show you simple, step-by-step ways to get your printer back to working normally.

Why Your Printer May Stop Printing

Your printer relies on small pieces of software in your computer to work correctly. If this software is missing, outdated, or not working properly, your printer may act like it is offline, not respond, or fail to print documents. This software tells your computer how to send information to the printer in a way it understands.

Think of it like a translator. If the translator is missing or gives the wrong information, the printer doesn’t know what to do, and printing stops. Updating this software ensures your computer and printer can talk to each other clearly.

The Easiest Way to Fix Printer Issues: DriverAssist

For most users, the fastest and simplest solution is to use a tool called DriverAssist. This tool automatically finds and updates the software your printer needs, without complicated steps.

1. Click this link to download DriverAssist.
2. Open the program and let it scan your computer.
3. When it detects that the Brother MFC‑J4355DW needs updating, click “Update.”
4. Follow the instructions on the screen.
5. Once finished, restart your computer and check your printer.

Using DriverAssist is a fast, reliable way to fix most issues, especially if your printer suddenly stops printing or shows offline.

How to Update Your Printer Manually

If you prefer to do it yourself, you can update your printer software manually in two ways: using the Brother support website or Windows Device Manager.

Option 1: Using the Brother Support Website

1. Open your web browser and go to the Brother support page for the MFC‑J4355DW.
2. Look for the section called “Downloads” or “Software & Drivers.”
3. Select your operating system (for example, Windows 10 or Windows 11).
4. Find the latest printer software available. Make sure it matches your computer’s system.
5. Click “Download” and wait for the file to finish downloading.
6. Open the downloaded file and follow the instructions to install it.
7. Restart your computer after the installation completes.

Once your computer restarts, try printing a test page. Most printing problems caused by outdated or missing software should be resolved.

Option 2: Using Windows Device Manager

Windows Device Manager lets you check all the hardware on your computer, including your printer, and update the software it uses. Here’s how:

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run box.
2. Type devmgmt.msc and press Enter. This opens Device Manager.
3. Find your printer under the section “Printers” or “Print queues.”
4. Right-click on your Brother MFC‑J4355DW and select Update software or Update driver.
5. Choose Search automatically for updated software. Windows will look for the latest software for your printer.
6. Follow any prompts to install updates.
7. Restart your computer when finished.

After your computer restarts, your printer should print normally again.

Tips to Avoid Future Printing Problems

• Always keep your printer software up to date.
• Restart your computer and printer if it suddenly stops printing.
• Check that your printer is connected to your network or USB correctly.
• Use DriverAssist regularly to make sure your printer software stays current without complicated steps.

Conclusion

A Brother MFC‑J4355DW printer that shows offline or does not respond is usually caused by missing, outdated, or broken software on your computer. Using DriverAssist is the simplest way to fix this problem quickly. For users who prefer to update manually, the Brother support website and Windows Device Manager are reliable options. Following these steps will help your printer print again without frustration.

By keeping your printer software up to date, your Brother MFC‑J4355DW will continue to work smoothly, and you can avoid the stress of seeing it offline or unresponsive.