To install a Canon printer to your computer, connect the printer via USB or Wi-Fi. Download and install the latest drivers from Canon’s official website. Follow on-screen setup instructions, add the printer from your system settings, and set it as default. Test by printing a document to confirm installation.
 

How to Install Canon Printer to This Computer – A Complete Guide

Installing a Canon printer to your computer is a vital first step to ensure efficient and reliable printing. Whether you're setting up a printer for home, office, or personal projects, this detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll cover both USB and wireless installation methods, explore solutions for common issues, and include a helpful FAQ section.

1. Introduction

Canon printers are known for their quality and performance, offering printing solutions for all types of users. But before using your Canon printer, it must be correctly installed on your computer. This guide will help you install a Canon printer to both Windows and macOS systems, regardless of whether it's a wired or wireless connection.

2. Requirements Before Installation

Before starting, ensure you have the following:

  • A Canon printer that is powered on and ready.

  • A working computer (Windows 10/11 or macOS).

  • A USB cable (for wired installation).

  • Wi-Fi access (for wireless installation).

  • Canon printer driver (from ij.start.canon).

Also, ensure your computer meets the printer’s system requirements.

3. Installation Methods

Canon printers can be installed using:

A. USB Installation (Wired)

For Windows:

  1. Connect the Printer: Plug the USB cable from the printer to your PC.

  2. Turn On the Printer: Wait until Windows detects the device.

  3. Automatic Driver Installation: Windows will usually install basic drivers automatically.

  4. Install Canon Drivers: For full functionality, download and install the official Canon driver from ij.start.canon.

For Mac:

  1. Connect via USB and turn on the printer.

  2. Open System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.

  3. Click the "+" button and select your printer from the list.

  4. Click Add, and the system may automatically download necessary drivers.

B. Wireless Installation (Wi-Fi)

Wireless installation allows you to print from anywhere on your network.

For Windows:

  1. Connect Printer to Wi-Fi:

    • On the printer screen, go to Settings > Wireless LAN setup.

    • Choose your Wi-Fi and enter the password.

  2. Download Canon Drivers:

  3. Run Setup:

    • The setup tool will detect your printer on the same network.

    • Follow the prompts to complete installation.

For Mac:

  1. Connect Printer to Wi-Fi.

  2. Open System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.

  3. Click “+”, select your Canon printer, and click Add.

  4. The system may download the correct driver or prompt you to install it manually.

4. Downloading and Installing Canon Drivers

Canon printers require drivers to function properly.

Steps to Download Drivers:

  1. Go to https://ij.start.canon.

  2. Enter your printer model (e.g., Canon PIXMA MG3620).

  3. Click on Drivers & Downloads.

  4. Download the appropriate driver for your operating system.

  5. Run the installer and follow the prompts.

5. Setting the Canon Printer as Default

After installation, you should set the printer as default for convenience.

Windows:

  • Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners.

  • Select your printer.

  • Click Manage > Set as default.

Mac:

  • Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.

  • Right-click the printer and choose Set as default printer.

6. Testing the Installation

After installation:

  1. Open any document or photo.

  2. Choose File > Print.

  3. Select your Canon printer.

  4. Click Print.

  5. If it prints correctly, the setup is successful.

7. Troubleshooting Installation Issues

A. Printer Not Detected

  • Check USB/Wi-Fi connection.

  • Restart both printer and computer.

  • Disable firewall or antivirus temporarily.

B. Driver Installation Failed

  • Download the latest version.

  • Run the installer as administrator (Right-click > Run as Administrator).

C. Cannot Connect Over Wi-Fi

  • Make sure printer and PC are on the same Wi-Fi network.

  • Reconnect the printer to Wi-Fi using control panel.

  • Reset Wi-Fi settings on the printer and try again.

8. Advanced Setup Using Canon IJ Network Tool

For network printers, Canon’s IJ Network Tool helps manage wireless settings.

Steps:

  1. Download the tool from the Canon website.

  2. Launch the tool on your computer.

  3. Choose your printer model.

  4. Click on Settings > Wireless Setup.

  5. Select the access point (Wi-Fi network) and enter password.

  6. Apply and confirm.

This tool is very helpful if you change your Wi-Fi network or want to switch from USB to Wi-Fi.

9. Using Canon IJ Setup Site (ij.start.canon)

Canon recommends using https://ij.start.canon for all printer setup needs.

Advantages:

  • Automatic driver detection.

  • Setup assistance for Wi-Fi or USB.

  • Access to manuals and troubleshooting tools.

Simply visit the site, enter your printer model, and follow the step-by-step instructions.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I install a Canon printer without the CD?
A: Yes. Visit ij.start.canon to download the latest drivers and software.

Q2: How do I find my Canon printer on the network?
A: Use the Canon IJ Network Tool or your printer’s touchscreen to view current network information.

Q3: Why is my Canon printer offline?
A: It may be due to connectivity issues. Restart your printer and computer, and ensure the printer is connected to the network.

Q4: Do I need an internet connection to install the printer?
A: You need internet to download drivers or set up wireless printing. Once installed, basic printing does not require internet access.

Q5: What to do if my printer is not showing on macOS?
A: Ensure it’s powered on and connected. Try adding it manually via Printers & Scanners.

Q6: How do I reinstall the printer?
A: Remove it from the device list, restart your computer, then reinstall using ij.start.canon.

Q7: Can I install the same printer on multiple computers?
A: Yes. Install the required drivers on each computer and connect via USB or Wi-Fi.

Q8: Can I print from my phone too?
A: Yes, using the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app available on Android and iOS.

Q9: How do I reset my Canon printer to factory settings?
A: Navigate to Setup > Device settings > Reset settings > Reset all on your printer screen.

Q10: Can I use a Canon printer with Chromebook?
A: Yes, if it supports Google Cloud Print or has mobile printing features.

11. Conclusion

Installing a Canon printer to your computer is simple when you follow the right steps. Whether you’re using a USB cable or connecting wirelessly, the process includes downloading the right drivers, configuring settings, and testing the setup. Canon’s tools and resources, like the Canon IJ Network Tool and ij.start.canon, simplify the process even further.

By following this 2500-word comprehensive guide, you should be able to set up your Canon printer with confidence. Remember to always refer to the printer manual for model-specific details, and enjoy seamless printing from your computer.