Canon Printer Guide
Canon printers—from PIXMA inkjets to imageCLASS lasers—perform best when connected correctly, using the right driver, and maintained regularly. This guide walks through Wi-Fi/Ethernet setup, driver installs, mobile printing, and troubleshooting for common problems like offline status, scanning failures, or banding.
Choose Your Connection
Use Wi-Fi for flexible placement and Ethernet for maximum stability. Most home PIXMA models prefer 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi; many office models add Ethernet. Avoid guest networks that block local traffic. If you use a mesh system, pair the printer with the main node during setup.
Connect to Wi-Fi
On PIXMA models, use Wireless LAN setup (standard setup) or WPS. For quick pairing, press and hold Wi-Fi until it flashes, press Color, then press Wi-Fi again, and press your router's WPS button. On screen-based models, run the setup wizard and enter your SSID/password. Print a network status page to confirm the IP.
Install Drivers
Download the Canon driver package for your series (PIXMA, MAXIFY, imageCLASS) and install the full suite. This includes maintenance tools and scan utilities (IJ Scan Utility or MF Scan Utility). Avoid relying only on generic OS drivers, which may omit cleaning and alignment features.
Add the Printer on Windows
After connecting to Wi-Fi/Ethernet, open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners, click Add device, and select the printer. If it does not appear, add by IP using the address from your network report. In Printer properties > Ports, choose the port that matches the IP or a Canon network port, and uncheck Use Printer Offline if set.
Add the Printer on macOS
Go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners, click plus, and select the printer. Set Use to the Canon driver (not just AirPrint) to keep maintenance tools. If it doesn't show, add by IP with protocol IPP or LPD and the printer's IP.
Mobile Printing
Install Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY for PIXMA/MAXIFY or the Canon PRINT Business app for imageCLASS. Add the printer while on the same Wi-Fi. iOS devices can also use AirPrint; Android users can enable Mopria or the default print service for direct printing without opening the app.
Fix Offline or Not Responding
Reserve the printer IP in your router to prevent port changes. On Windows, confirm the correct port/IP and clear Use Printer Offline. On macOS, delete and re-add the printer or add by IP. Disable VPN/Private Relay during troubleshooting. If jobs hang, clear the queue and restart the spooler (or reboot).
Improve Print and Scan Quality
Run Nozzle Check and Cleaning for inkjets; align the head if text is fuzzy. For lasers, clean the glass and ADF rollers to prevent lines on scans; replace toner or drum when prompted. Use paper that matches the driver's media setting to avoid smearing or fading.
Scanning Reliability
Install IJ Scan Utility or MF Scan Utility and select the correct network/USB entry in Preferences. If the computer cannot find the scanner, add the printer by IP, disable firewall/VPN temporarily, and ensure the printer and computer are on the same subnet. Clean the platen and ADF glass to remove streaks.
Firmware and Security
Update firmware via Canon's tool or the printer panel to improve Wi-Fi stability and fix bugs. Set an admin password on networked models and disable unused protocols. Keep devices on trusted networks; avoid printing from isolated guest SSIDs.
Paper Handling Tips
Store paper flat and dry to prevent curl that can cause skewed prints and jams. Set tray guides snugly. Match the media type in the driver to the actual paper—using photo mode on plain paper can over-ink and smear, while using plain on glossy can look washed out. For duplex, use supported weights to avoid curl.\n
Quick Checklist
- Connect on 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi or Ethernet; print a status page for IP.
- Install the full Canon driver and scan utility; test print/scan.
- Reserve the IP and verify the correct port on Windows/macOS.
- Use Canon PRINT apps or AirPrint/Mopria for mobile printing.
- Run nozzle checks/cleaning (inkjet) or clean glass/rollers (laser) for quality.
- Update firmware and secure the admin interface.
With these steps, your Canon printer will stay connected, print cleanly, and scan reliably across all your devices.