Jun. 09, 2025 / Updated by Violet to Windows Driver Solutions
Are you struggling to get your Brother DCP-L2520D printer up and running? You’re not alone! One of the most common issues users face is downloading or installing the correct printer driver. Without the right driver, your printer simply won’t work properly—no matter how new or well-functioning it is.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to download, install, and troubleshoot the Brother DCP-L2520D driver. Whether you're a tech novice or a seasoned pro, this article will help you solve your driver headaches quickly and effectively.
Before diving into downloads and installations, let’s clarify what a printer driver actually is and why it’s so important. Understanding this can help you troubleshoot problems and avoid them in the future.
The Role of Printer Drivers
Printer drivers are like translators. Your computer speaks one language, and your printer speaks another. A driver ensures both can communicate. Without a driver, your Brother printer is just a fancy paperweight.
Compatibility Issues with Incorrect Drivers
Installing the wrong driver can cause all sorts of headaches. From printing gibberish to your printer not responding at all, driver mismatches are the root cause of many issues. Always match the driver to your printer model and operating system.
Before you click any download button, it’s important to know where to get your drivers. Not all sources are created equal—some might even harm your system.
Official Brother Website
The safest and most reliable place to get your driver is Brother’s own website. It guarantees that you're downloading malware-free, fully compatible software tailored to your operating system.
Alternative Trusted Sources
If the Brother website is temporarily down or slow, you can turn to other well-known platforms. These alternative sources should only be used if you're confident in their security and authenticity.
Downloading your printer driver should be simple. But different operating systems require different steps. Follow the guide below based on whether you're using Windows, macOS, or Linux.
Download for Windows
Windows users have it pretty easy. The official website offers a full driver package that includes everything needed for seamless printing.
Download for macOS
macOS users need to download a .dmg installer specifically designed for Apple systems. It’s a straightforward process as long as you follow the on-screen prompts.
Download for Linux
Linux users, while more tech-savvy, can find their drivers from Brother's dedicated Linux support page. Be sure to choose the exact package compatible with your distro.
Once you’ve downloaded the correct driver, it’s time to install it. This step can vary slightly depending on your operating system. Below we’ve broken down installation for Windows and Mac systems.
Installation on Windows
Installing on Windows is a matter of launching the setup file, following the wizard, and making sure the printer is connected when prompted.
Installation on Mac
Mac installation involves opening the .dmg file, dragging the installer to the Applications folder, and then running the installer. It’s user-friendly and doesn't require much tech knowledge.
Tips for Smooth Installation
Installing drivers can go smoothly—or turn into a tech nightmare. These tips will help you stay on the smooth side of that equation by preventing common mistakes.
Even when you do everything right, hiccups can happen. Let’s address some of the most common problems people face during or after installation and how to fix them.
Driver Not Compatible
This usually happens when you download a driver meant for a different OS version. Always double-check compatibility before installing.
Printer Not Detected
This is usually due to connection issues—either the USB cable isn’t plugged in properly, or the computer hasn’t recognized the printer yet.
Installation Freezes or Crashes
Running into a freeze during installation? You’re not alone. Background apps, low memory, or security software can interfere. A quick restart or closing all programs usually helps.
If manual installs feel like a chore, there’s an easier way—Driver Talent. It automatically finds, downloads, and installs the correct driver for your Brother DCP-L2520D.
Features and Benefits
One-click driver update
Backup and restore drivers
Fixes driver conflicts
Supports all major brands and printers
Offers a free trial
How to Use Driver Talent
Step 1. Download Driver Talent from the official site
Step 2. Install and launch the app
Step 3. Click Scan to detect outdated or missing drivers
Step 4. Click Repair or Update for Brother DCP-L2520D
Step 5. Restart your PC—done!
USB installation is the most straightforward method if you're not sharing the printer over a network. It’s a plug-and-play setup for most users.
Step-by-Step USB Setup
If your computer doesn’t automatically detect the printer, don’t worry. Follow this step-by-step process to get things working.
Plug in your printer via USB
Windows should auto-detect the device
If not, manually install the driver
Set the DCP-L2520D as the default printer
Troubleshooting USB Issues
If something goes wrong—like the printer not responding or appearing offline—this section has quick fixes that usually solve the problem.
Use a different port
Try another USB cable
Reinstall the driver if issues persist
Wired Network Installation
This method is ideal for offices or homes where multiple users need to access the printer. Connecting it via Ethernet makes sharing more stable and fast.
Connect printer to router via Ethernet
Use Brother software to detect and connect
Wireless (via Shared PC)
Don’t have Ethernet? You can connect the printer to a single computer and share it across your local network. It’s not the same as Wi-Fi, but it gets the job done.
Connect it to a PC via USB
Share it across the network through Windows printer sharing
Setting up the Brother DCP-L2520D doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Whether you’re installing it for the first time or trying to fix driver issues, this guide has you covered. Make sure you download from a reliable source, follow the installation steps properly, and use tools like Driver Talent if you're looking for a quicker, hands-free solution.
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