
How to Connect Canon Printer to WiFi on Windows, Mac, and Mobile Devices
In the age of wireless connectivity, printing has evolved beyond traditional USB cables. Canon printers, known for their reliability and performance, support WiFi printing to enable seamless connections across various devices. Whether you're using Windows, Mac, or a mobile device, this comprehensive guide will walk you through step-by-step instructions to connect your Canon printer to WiFi. By the end, you’ll be wirelessly printing with ease from any device in your home or office.
1. Introduction to Canon Wireless Printers
Canon has designed a wide range of wireless printers, including PIXMA, MAXIFY, and imageCLASS series. These printers offer easy connectivity, allowing users to print documents and photos without being physically tethered to a computer. With built-in WiFi, Canon printers can communicate with devices over the same wireless network.
2. Benefits of Connecting Canon Printers to WiFi
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Convenience: Print from anywhere within your WiFi range.
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Mobility: Supports smartphones, tablets, and laptops without cables.
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Multi-Device Support: Connect multiple devices without the need to switch USB cables.
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Cloud Printing: Print from Google Cloud Print, Apple AirPrint, or Canon Cloud Link.
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Decluttered Workspace: No need for extra cables or physical proximity.
3. Pre-Requisites Before Starting WiFi Setup
Before connecting your Canon printer to WiFi, ensure the following:
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A stable wireless internet connection.
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Your WiFi network name (SSID) and password.
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Canon printer powered on and in range of the router.
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Printer software/drivers installed on the device (Windows, Mac, Android, iOS).
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Canon PRINT app installed on mobile devices if using smartphones or tablets.
4. How to Connect Canon Printer to WiFi (General Setup)
Canon printers usually offer two common wireless setup methods:
A. WPS Push Button Method
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Press and hold the WiFi button on the printer until the light blinks.
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Press the WPS button on your router within 2 minutes.
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When the printer connects, the WiFi light will stay steady.
Note: Your router must support WPS for this method.
B. Standard Wireless LAN Setup
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Press the Setup button on the printer (usually a wrench icon).
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Navigate to Wireless LAN Setup > press OK.
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Select Standard Setup > choose your network name (SSID).
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Enter your WiFi password using the keypad.
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Confirm and wait for the printer to connect.
5. Connecting Canon Printer to WiFi on Windows
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Connect Printer to WiFi
Use either the WPS method or Standard Wireless LAN Setup described above.
Step 2: Download and Install Canon Printer Driver
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Visit Canon’s official website.
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Enter your printer model (e.g., Canon PIXMA MG3620).
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Download the latest driver compatible with your Windows version.
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Run the installation wizard.
Step 3: Add Printer to Windows
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Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers > Add a Printer.
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Windows will search for nearby printers.
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Select your Canon printer from the list.
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Click Next and follow on-screen instructions.
Step 4: Set as Default Printer (Optional)
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Right-click the printer icon > Set as default printer.
6. Connecting Canon Printer to WiFi on Mac
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Connect Printer to WiFi
Ensure the printer is connected to the WiFi network using the standard or WPS setup.
Step 2: Download and Install Driver
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Visit Canon USA support.
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Search for your printer model.
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Download the Mac-compatible driver.
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Run the installer and follow the prompts.
Step 3: Add Printer to Mac
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Open System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.
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Click the + button to add a printer.
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Choose your Canon printer from the list.
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Click Add to finalize.
Step 4: Test the Connection
Print a test page to confirm successful setup.
7. Connecting Canon Printer to WiFi Using a Mobile Device
Canon supports wireless printing from both iOS and Android devices.
A. For Android Devices
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Download the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app from Google Play Store.
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Connect your Android phone to the same WiFi network.
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Launch the Canon app and tap Add Printer.
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Follow on-screen steps to detect and connect the printer.
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Start printing directly from your phone.
B. For iOS Devices (iPhone/iPad)
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Ensure the printer supports Apple AirPrint or install Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app.
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Connect your iPhone to the same WiFi as the printer.
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Open any printable document/photo.
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Tap the Share icon > Print.
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Select the Canon printer and tap Print.
8. Using Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY App
The Canon PRINT app simplifies mobile printing and scanning.
Features:
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Add, manage, and check printer status
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Scan to mobile
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Print photos and documents
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Monitor ink levels
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Access cloud services
Setup:
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Install the app on your device.
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Open the app and allow necessary permissions.
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Tap Register Printer > Auto Search.
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Select your printer > tap Connect.
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You’re ready to print, copy, or scan wirelessly.
9. Troubleshooting WiFi Connection Issues
If you're facing problems connecting your Canon printer to WiFi, try these solutions:
A. Common Problems and Fixes
Issue | Solution |
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Printer not connecting to WiFi | Restart printer and router. Check WiFi credentials. |
Printer not detected by computer | Reinstall drivers. Ensure both devices are on the same network. |
Printer disconnected frequently | Update printer firmware. Avoid signal interference. |
Unable to print wirelessly | Check print queue and restart services. |
WiFi light is off/blinking | Reconnect the printer using LAN setup. |
B. Reset Network Settings on Canon Printer
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Go to Settings > Device Settings > Reset Settings.
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Choose Reset LAN settings.
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Reconnect using standard wireless setup.
10. FAQs on Canon Wireless Printing
Q1: Can I use WiFi Direct instead of a router?
Yes, many Canon printers support WiFi Direct, allowing direct device-printer connection without a router.
Q2: Do I need internet to use wireless printing?
No internet is required if you're printing over a local network or using WiFi Direct.
Q3: Why is my Canon printer not showing up on my device?
Make sure both devices are on the same network. Restart the printer and reinstall drivers if needed.
Q4: How do I change the WiFi network on my Canon printer?
Reset the current network settings and reconfigure using the new WiFi SSID and password.
Q5: Can I print from cloud storage?
Yes. Canon printers support cloud services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive via Canon PRINT or Canon Cloud Link.
11. Final Thoughts
Connecting your Canon printer to WiFi enables greater flexibility, mobile access, and hassle-free operation. Whether you're using a Windows PC, a MacBook, or a smartphone, the process is straightforward with the right guidance. Always ensure your devices are on the same network, and keep your drivers updated for a smooth experience.
By following the step-by-step methods in this guide, you can enjoy wireless printing, scanning, and cloud integration from virtually any device. If you face any issues, refer to the troubleshooting section or contact Canon support for specialized assistance.