Installing a Brother printer on an Ubuntu system can sometimes present challenges, particularly when it comes to device driver setup. Many users, especially those new to Linux, find themselves puzzled by the “Device URI” selection during the installation process. This guide aims to clarify the Device URI options, focusing on Ethernet network connections, to help you successfully install your Brother printer driver on Ubuntu.
When installing your Brother printer driver, you might encounter a step asking: “Will you specify the Device URI?”. Choosing “Yes” presents a list of options, which can be confusing. For users connecting via Ethernet, understanding the correct choice is crucial for successful printer operation.
The prompt in the terminal, as shown in the original query, lists various Device URI types:
Will you specify the Device URI? [y/N] ->Y
0: ipp
1: ipps
2: lpd
3: socket
4: beh
5: hp
6: https
7: ipp14
8: smb
9: http
10: hpfax
11 (I): Specify IP address.
select the number of destination Device URI. ->For a Brother printer connected to your network via Ethernet, the most relevant options are typically “socket” (option 3) or “lpd” (option 2). Option 11 “Specify IP address” can also be used in conjunction with the “socket” or “lpd” protocols. Let’s break down why “socket” is often the preferred choice for Ethernet connections in a home or office LAN environment.
The “socket” protocol, also known as JetDirect, allows direct TCP/IP communication with your printer over the network. This is generally a reliable and straightforward method for network printing. When you select option 3 (socket), the installation process will likely prompt you to enter the IP address of your Brother printer. You can usually find your printer’s IP address through its control panel, often within network settings or device information.
Alternatively, “lpd” (Line Printer Daemon) is another network protocol that can be used. While “socket” is often recommended for modern printers, “lpd” is an older protocol that might still work, especially in some network configurations. Similar to “socket”, you might need to provide the printer’s IP address when using “lpd”.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to selecting the Device URI for an Ethernet-connected Brother printer on Ubuntu:
- During the driver installation process, when asked “Will you specify the Device URI?”, type “Y” and press Enter.
- From the list of options, select “3” for “socket” and press Enter.
- You may be asked to specify the IP address. If prompted, choose option “11 (I): Specify IP address.” and enter the IP address of your Brother printer. Ensure your printer is powered on and connected to the network.
- Follow the remaining prompts to complete the driver installation.
If you are unsure about your printer’s IP address, consult your Brother printer’s user manual or navigate its control panel to find network settings, typically under menus like “Network”, “WLAN”, or “Device Information”.
In conclusion, when installing a Brother printer driver on Ubuntu for an Ethernet network connection, choosing “socket” (option 3) as the Device URI is generally the recommended and most effective approach. By understanding the Device URI options and following these steps, you can streamline the installation process and get your Brother printer working seamlessly on your Ubuntu system. For further assistance, always refer to the official Brother support website and documentation for your specific printer model.
