Types of network connections

 

Generally, there are two types of network connections: Peer-to-Peer and Network Shared environment.

Peer-to-Peer printing using TCP/IP

In a Peer-to-Peer environment, each computer directly sends and receives data to each device. There is no central server controlling file access or printer sharing.

1.      Router

2.      Network printer

·         In a smaller network of 2 or 3 computers, we recommend the Peer-to-Peer printing method as it is easier to configure than the Network Shared printing method described on the following page.

·         Each computer must use the TCP/IP Protocol.

·         The Brother printer needs to have an appropriate IP address configuration.

·         If you are using routers, the Gateway address must be configured on the computers and the Brother printer.

·         The Brother printer can also communicate with Macintosh®. (TCP/IP compatible operating systems)

 

Network Shared printing

In a Network Shared environment, each computer sends data via a centrally controlled computer. This type of computer is often called a “Server” or a “Print Server”. Its job is to control the printing of all print jobs.

1.      Network Shared

2.      Also known as “Server” or “Print server”

3.      Printer

4.      TCP/IP or USB

·         In a larger network, we recommend a Network Shared printing environment.

·         The “server” or the “print server” must use the TCP/IP print protocol.

·         The Brother printer needs to have an appropriate IP address configuration unless the printer is connected via the USB interface at the server.