Setting up your Canon IJ wireless printer is simple with this step-by-step guide for beginners. Learn how to connect your printer to Wi-Fi, install drivers via ij.start.canon, and configure settings on Windows, Mac, and mobile devices. Enjoy hassle-free printing with easy, clear instructions designed for first-time users.
 
 
Step-by-Step Guide to Canon IJ Wireless Printer Setup for Beginners

Setting up your Canon IJ wireless printer doesn't have to be daunting. Whether you're a first-time user or just need a refresher, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring a smooth and successful setup.

Introduction

Canon's IJ series printers are renowned for their quality and ease of use. Setting up the wireless functionality allows for convenient printing from multiple devices without the need for physical connections. This guide focuses on helping beginners set up their Canon IJ wireless printers efficiently.

Prerequisites

Before beginning the setup, ensure you have the following:

  • Canon IJ Wireless Printer: Ensure it's compatible with wireless functionality.

  • Wi-Fi Network: Active internet connection with SSID and password.

  • Computer or Mobile Device: Connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

  • Printer Drivers and Software: Available on the installation CD or downloadable from Canon's official website.

Unboxing and Initial Setup

  1. Unpack the Printer: Remove all packaging materials, tapes, and protective films.

  2. Install Ink Cartridges: Open the cartridge access door and insert the cartridges as per the instructions.

  3. Load Paper: Adjust the paper guides and load the paper into the tray.

  4. Power On: Connect the power cord and press the power button to turn on the printer.

Connecting to Wi-Fi

Standard Wireless Setup

This method involves connecting the printer to your Wi-Fi network using the printer's control panel.

  1. Access Setup Menu: On the printer's control panel, navigate to the 'Setup' menu.

  2. Select 'Wireless LAN Setup': Choose this option to begin the wireless setup process.

  3. Choose Your Network: The printer will search for available networks. Select your Wi-Fi network from the list.

  4. Enter Password: Input your Wi-Fi password using the printer's keypad.

  5. Confirm Connection: Once connected, the Wi-Fi indicator light will become steady.

WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)

If your router supports WPS, this method simplifies the connection process.

  1. Initiate WPS on Printer: Press and hold the Wi-Fi button on the printer until the Wi-Fi light flashes.

  2. Press WPS on Router: Within two minutes, press the WPS button on your router.

  3. Establish Connection: The printer will automatically connect to the network. The Wi-Fi light will stop flashing once connected.

Wireless Direct Connection

This method allows you to connect your device directly to the printer without a router.

  1. Enable Wireless Direct: On the printer, press and hold the Wi-Fi button until the Wi-Fi light flashes.

  2. Connect Device: On your computer or mobile device, go to Wi-Fi settings and select the network name (SSID) displayed by the printer.

  3. Enter Password: Input the password provided in the printer's manual or displayed on the printer's screen.

  4. Confirm Connection: Once connected, the Wi-Fi light on the printer will become steady.

Installing Drivers and Software

  1. Visit Canon's Official Website: Navigate to ij.start.canon.

  2. Download Drivers: Enter your printer model and download the appropriate drivers and software for your operating system.

  3. Run Installer: Open the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the software.

  4. Select Connection Method: During installation, choose 'Wireless Connection' when prompted.

  5. Complete Setup: Follow the remaining prompts to complete the installation and setup process.

Mobile Device Setup

To print from your smartphone or tablet:

  1. Download Canon PRINT App: Available on the App Store and Google Play Store.

  2. Open the App: Launch the Canon PRINT app on your device.

  3. Add Printer: The app will search for available printers. Select your printer from the list.

  4. Connect to Printer: Follow the on-screen instructions to connect your device to the printer.

  5. Start Printing: Once connected, you can print photos and documents directly from your mobile device.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Printer Not Found During Setup:

    • Ensure the printer is powered on and within range of the Wi-Fi router.

    • Restart your printer and router.

    • Temporarily disable any firewall or antivirus software that may be blocking the connection.

  • Wi-Fi Connection Fails:

    • Double-check the Wi-Fi password entered.

    • Ensure the router is functioning correctly and supports the required frequency (2.4GHz).

    • Move the printer closer to the router to improve signal strength.

  • Mobile Device Can't Find Printer:

    • Ensure both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

    • Restart the Canon PRINT app and your mobile device.

    • Reinstall the Canon PRINT app if issues persist.

Conclusion

Setting up your Canon IJ wireless printer is a straightforward process when following the correct steps. By ensuring all prerequisites are met and carefully following the setup instructions, you can enjoy the convenience of wireless printing from various devices. Should you encounter any issues, refer to the troubleshooting section or consult Canon's official support resources for further assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is Canon IJ Wireless Printer?

A Canon IJ wireless printer is a type of Canon printer that connects to devices like computers, smartphones, and tablets through a Wi-Fi network, allowing users to print without using a USB or wired connection.

Q2. How do I find the model number of my Canon printer?

You can locate the model number on a sticker usually found on the front, top, or back of your Canon printer. It typically starts with letters like MG, TS, G, or MX followed by numbers.

Q3. What is ij.start.canon?

ij.start.canon is Canon’s official setup website where you can download the latest drivers, software, and manuals for your Canon IJ printer model and follow setup instructions for wireless and wired connections.

Q4. Can I set up my Canon printer without a CD?

Yes! You can easily set up your Canon printer without a CD by downloading drivers and software from ij.start.canon and following the on-screen installation guide.

Q5. How do I connect my Canon printer to Wi-Fi if I lost the password?

If you’ve lost your Wi-Fi password, access your router’s admin page through a connected device or consult your Internet service provider (ISP) to retrieve or reset it. You’ll need this password for your printer’s Wi-Fi connection.

Q6. What is the WPS button on my router and how does it help?

The WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) button on your router allows quick, secure connections between the router and compatible devices like printers without entering the Wi-Fi password manually. You press the WPS button during setup to connect devices easily.

Q7. Can I connect my Canon IJ printer to multiple devices?

Yes, once connected to your Wi-Fi network, your Canon IJ wireless printer can be accessed by multiple devices like computers, smartphones, and tablets connected to the same network.

Q8. Is it possible to print from my phone without a Wi-Fi router?

Yes, using the Wireless Direct feature, your Canon printer can create its own wireless network. Connect your smartphone or tablet directly to the printer’s Wi-Fi, and you can print using the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app.

Q9. What if my printer isn’t showing up during setup?

Ensure the printer is turned on, within range of the Wi-Fi router, and connected to the correct network. Restart both your printer and router, disable any firewall blocking the connection, or reset the printer’s network settings and try again.

Q10. Which app should I use for printing from my smartphone?

Use the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app, available for free on the App Store and Google Play. It lets you print photos, documents, and PDFs directly from your mobile device over a Wi-Fi connection.

Q11. Do Canon wireless printers support both 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi networks?

Most Canon IJ wireless printers support 2.4GHz networks only. Check your printer’s specifications on Canon’s official website or manual for details.

Q12. How do I reset my Canon printer’s Wi-Fi settings?

Go to your printer’s Setup or Settings menu, select Device Settings, then Reset Settings, and choose Reset Network Settings or Reset LAN Settings. This will clear the saved Wi-Fi credentials, allowing you to reconnect it afresh.