How to Connect Canon Printer to WiFi

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In today’s wireless world, connecting your Canon printer to WiFi can greatly simplify your printing process, enabling you to print from anywhere within the network’s range without dealing with cumbersome cables. This article provides an easy-to-follow guide on how to connect a Canon printer to a WiFi network, along with troubleshooting tips for common issues that might arise during the process.

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Understanding Canon Printers and WiFi Connectivity

Canon offers a range of printers with WiFi capabilities, from the PIXMA and MAXIFY series to more advanced models designed for high-quality photo printing or professional use. Wireless functionality allows these printers to connect to various devices, including laptops, desktops, smartphones, and tablets, making it easier to print on demand.

Whether you have a Canon PIXMA, MAXIFY, or any other model, the process to connect the printer to WiFi is generally similar. Before diving into the step-by-step guide, make sure you have the following prerequisites:

  • A WiFi network with SSID (network name) and password.
  • Canon printer with wireless capability.
  • Device for setup, such as a smartphone, laptop, or desktop.
  • Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app if using a smartphone.

Now, let’s go over the steps to connect your Canon printer to WiFi.

1. Connecting Your Canon Printer Using WPS (WiFi Protected Setup)

The WPS method is one of the quickest ways to connect a Canon printer to WiFi. It’s ideal for those with a WPS-enabled router.

Steps to Connect:

  1. Turn on your Canon printer and ensure it’s ready for setup. The power button light should be stable, not blinking.
  2. Press and hold the WPS button on your WiFi router for approximately five seconds. You may need to consult your router’s manual for the exact location of this button.
  3. Press the WiFi button on your Canon printer until the WiFi indicator light starts flashing. The printer will search for WPS-enabled networks nearby.
  4. Once connected, the WiFi light on the printer will stay lit (solid light, not blinking), indicating a successful connection.
  5. Print a network settings page if necessary, to confirm the connection. This can be done from the printer’s control panel or settings menu.

2. Connecting Your Canon Printer to WiFi Using Standard Method (Without WPS)

If your router does not support WPS, follow these steps to connect your Canon printer to the WiFi network.

Steps to Connect:

  1. Power on the Canon printer and ensure it’s ready.
  2. On the printer’s control panel, navigate to the WiFi setup menu. This is usually found under the “Settings” or “Network” options.
  3. Select the “Wireless LAN setup” option, which initiates the search for available WiFi networks.
  4. Use the arrow keys to select your WiFi network’s SSID (name).
  5. Enter your WiFi password using the control panel. Press “OK” or “Next” to proceed after entering the password.
  6. Once the printer connects to the WiFi network, the WiFi indicator light will stop blinking and remain steady.
  7. Test the connection by printing a network status page or attempting a wireless print from your connected device.

3. Connecting Your Canon Printer to WiFi Using the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY App (Smartphone)

If you prefer to set up the printer using a smartphone, the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app is an intuitive option.

Steps to Connect:

  1. Download and install the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app on your smartphone from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
  2. Open the app and select “Add Printer” or “Register Printer.”
  3. Ensure that your Canon printer is in Wireless LAN setup mode. You can activate this mode by selecting “WiFi setup” from the printer’s control panel.
  4. Follow the app instructions to connect your printer to WiFi. The app will scan for nearby Canon printers.
  5. Once it locates your printer, tap on your printer’s name and enter the WiFi password if prompted.
  6. The app will confirm once the printer is successfully connected to the WiFi network.

4. Using the Canon Printer Software on a PC

If you prefer setting up the WiFi connection from a computer, the Canon Printer software can guide you through the process.

Steps to Connect:

  1. Insert the Canon setup CD or download the printer driver and setup software from the Canon website.
  2. Run the setup file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the printer software.
  3. During the installation process, select “Wireless LAN Connection” as the connection method.
  4. Follow the prompts to allow the software to search for available networks.
  5. Select your network and enter the WiFi password when prompted.
  6. Once completed, the software will confirm a successful connection, and you’ll be able to print wirelessly from your computer.

5. Connecting Canon Printers with Touchscreen Control Panels

For Canon printers with a touchscreen control panel, connecting to WiFi is often more straightforward.

Steps to Connect:

  1. Tap on the “Settings” icon or “Network” option on the touchscreen.
  2. Select Wireless LAN setup and then choose Standard setup.
  3. The printer will start searching for WiFi networks. Tap your network name when it appears.
  4. Enter the WiFi password using the touchscreen keyboard and tap OK.
  5. Once connected, the WiFi icon will appear on the printer’s screen.

Troubleshooting Canon Printer WiFi Connection Issues

Even with a reliable setup, some users may experience connectivity problems. Here are some common issues and troubleshooting steps.

Issue 1: Printer Not Detecting WiFi Network

  • Solution: Ensure that the WiFi router is within range of the printer. Check if other devices can connect to the same WiFi network. If the issue persists, try restarting the printer and router.

Issue 2: Incorrect Password

  • Solution: Double-check that you’re entering the correct WiFi password. WiFi passwords are case-sensitive, so make sure to use the exact uppercase and lowercase letters.

Issue 3: Connection Drops Frequently

  • Solution: This may be due to interference from other wireless devices. Try changing the WiFi channel on your router or moving the printer closer to the router to reduce interference.

Issue 4: WiFi Light Continues to Blink

  • Solution: A blinking WiFi light generally indicates an unsuccessful connection attempt. Reset the WiFi settings on the printer and go through the setup process again.

Issue 5: Canon Printer Not Listed in Devices

  • Solution: If you’re setting up via smartphone, ensure your phone is on the same network as the printer. Reinstall the Canon PRINT app if necessary and try reconnecting.

Additional Tips for Connecting Canon Printers to WiFi

  • Update Firmware: Keeping your printer’s firmware updated ensures compatibility with your network and device.
  • Use 2.4 GHz Band if Possible: Some Canon printers may have trouble connecting to the 5 GHz band. Try connecting to the 2.4 GHz band instead.
  • Check for Router Firmware Updates: An outdated router can also cause connectivity issues. Consult your router’s manual on how to update its firmware.

Conclusion

Connecting your Canon printer to WiFi brings convenience and flexibility to your printing tasks. By following these step-by-step methods — using WPS, the standard method, Canon’s mobile app, or printer software — you can have your Canon printer connected in no time. With WiFi setup complete, printing directly from laptops, desktops, or mobile devices becomes seamless and efficient. And if you encounter any issues, refer to the troubleshooting tips above to resolve them.