How to Connect Canon Printer to WiFi: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Canon printers are well-known for their print quality, durability, and wireless features. One of the most convenient ways to use a Canon printer is to connect it to a WiFi network. Once connected, you can print from laptops, desktops, smartphones, or tablets without the hassle of cables. Whether you're setting up a new printer or reconnecting one after a network change, this comprehensive guide will walk you through how to connect your Canon printer to WiFi in various ways.

1. Introduction

Gone are the days of USB cables and tangled wires. Wireless printing lets you print from anywhere within your network range. Canon offers a variety of WiFi-enabled models such as PIXMA, MAXIFY, and imageCLASS series, all designed to support wireless connectivity. But the process of connecting them can vary based on the model and method used.

2. Benefits of Connecting Canon Printer to WiFi

Before we get into the process, let's look at the advantages:

• Convenience: No need to physically connect devices.

• Mobility: Print from smartphones, tablets, and laptops.

• Multiple device access: All network-connected devices can use the same printer.

• Less clutter: Eliminate the need for USB cables.

• Remote printing: Cloud print or mobile print services can be used once connected.

3. Requirements Before Connecting

Make sure you have the following:

• A WiFi network (2.4GHz supported by most Canon printers).

• Your WiFi SSID (network name) and password.

• A Canon printer with wireless functionality.

• A device (phone or computer) connected to the same WiFi network.

4. Methods to Connect Canon Printer to WiFi

Canon offers several methods to connect depending on your device and model. Let’s explore each one:

A. Using WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) Method

The WPS method is one of the easiest ways if your router and printer support it.

Steps:

1. Turn on your Canon printer and make sure it is idle.

2. Press and hold the WiFi button on the printer until the WiFi light starts flashing.

3. Within 2 minutes, press the WPS button on your router.

4. The WiFi light will continue blinking while it searches for the connection.

5. Once connected, the WiFi light will remain solid (not blinking).

6. You can now install the printer driver on your device if needed.

Note:

• WPS must be enabled on your router.

• The router should be within close range.

B. Standard Wireless LAN Setup (Control Panel)

For Canon printers with a display screen or control panel.

Steps:

1. Turn on your printer.

2. On the Home screen, go to Settings or Setup.

3. Navigate to Wireless LAN Setup or Network Settings.

4. Select Wireless LAN Setup > press OK.

5. The printer will search for nearby networks.

6. Choose your WiFi network (SSID) from the list.

7. Enter the WiFi password using the keypad or touchscreen.

8. After successful connection, a confirmation message will appear.

9. The WiFi indicator should now be solid.

Tip:

Some models have a setup wizard to guide you through the steps.

C. Using Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY Mobile App

Ideal for connecting via smartphone or tablet.

Steps for Android/iOS:

1. Download the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app from the App Store or Google Play.

2. Turn on your printer and ensure it's in Setup Mode:

   • Press the Wireless button until it flashes or select LAN settings > Easy Wireless Connect.

3. Open the Canon PRINT app and tap Add Printer.

4. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect the printer to the same WiFi network.

5. Once connected, the app will notify you.

6. You can now print photos, documents, or scan from your mobile device.

D. Connecting Via Computer (Windows and Mac)

This method is common during the first-time setup.

For Windows:

1. Visit Canon’s official support site and download your printer’s driver or installer.

2. Run the setup program.

3. Choose Wireless Connection > Next.

4. Select Connect via wireless router (recommended) > Next.

5. Follow the setup wizard’s prompts. It will search for available WiFi networks.

6. Select your network and enter the password.

7. Once connected, the software will install the printer.

8. Perform a test print to confirm.

For Mac:

1. Download the latest Mac driver from Canon’s site.

2. Open the installer.

3. Choose Wireless LAN Connection during setup.

4. Follow the same prompts as Windows.

5. Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.

6. Click the "+" sign to add the newly connected Canon printer.

7. Your printer is now ready for wireless printing.

E. Using the Web Interface (Advanced)

For advanced users and enterprise models (e.g., imageCLASS, MAXIFY):

1. Connect your printer to the network using a temporary USB or Ethernet connection.

2. Print a network configuration page from the printer settings to get its IP address.

3. Open a browser on a computer in the same network.

4. Enter the printer’s IP address into the browser’s address bar.

5. Login to the printer’s web interface (default credentials are often admin/admin).

6. Go to Wireless Settings > Wireless LAN Setup.

7. Choose your WiFi SSID and enter the password.

8. Save and restart the printer.

9. Disconnect the USB/Ethernet cable once WiFi is active.

5. Troubleshooting WiFi Connection Issues

If the printer doesn't connect, here are some fixes:

1. Incorrect Password

Double-check if the password was entered correctly (case-sensitive).

2. Out of Range

Move the printer closer to your WiFi router.

3. Wrong Network

Ensure you’re connecting to the correct SSID (some homes have dual-band routers).

4. Router Settings

Disable MAC address filtering or add the printer’s MAC manually.

5. Reset Network Settings

Go to Settings > Reset Settings > LAN Settings Only, then try connecting again.

6. Reconnecting Canon Printer After WiFi Change

If you change your WiFi router or SSID, your printer needs to be reconnected.

Steps:

1. On your printer, go to Settings > LAN Settings > Wireless LAN Setup.

2. Choose your new WiFi network.

3. Enter the new password.

4. Once connected, your computer or phone might need to reinstall the printer with the new IP.

7. Tips for Stable WiFi Printing

• Use 2.4GHz band: Canon printers often don’t support 5GHz networks.

• Keep printer and router in the same room for better signal strength.

• Use a static IP if you often face disconnection issues.

• Update firmware regularly to fix known WiFi bugs.

• Avoid obstacles: Walls and metal objects reduce signal quality.

8. Conclusion

Connecting a Canon printer to WiFi opens up a world of convenience, enabling wireless printing from any device on the network. Whether you prefer using the WPS button, control panel, mobile app, or your PC, Canon offers multiple methods to make the process easy. For a smoother experience, ensure your printer’s drivers and firmware are always up to date and that your network is stable.

With this guide, you now know exactly how to connect your Canon printer to WiFi regardless of the model or device you’re using. Whether you're setting up for the first time or reconnecting after a network change, these steps will help ensure a seamless wireless printing experience.