How to Connect My Canon PIXMA Printer to WiFi? (Easy Steps)

A few months ago, I tried connecting my Canon PIXMA Printer to WiFi and encountered unfamiliar terms like WPS and LAN settings. Also, I found it challenging to enter my long WiFi password on the printer's small screen.

I know many of you might be wondering why your printer isn't showing on the WiFi list. Users often wonder if a USB cable is needed for the Canon printer setup. These are some of the frequent questions shared by users in online forums like Quora and Reddit.

I faced similar challenges during my setup process. For almost an hour, I got the same error, saying, "Cannot find an access point." If you're stuck in the process like me, you're in the right place. This blog will help you through every step of connecting your Canon PIXMA printer to WiFi using the four best methods. This guide works for printers with either a touchscreen or physical buttons.

Step 1: Gather Essentials

Before you dive into "How to Connect My Canon PIXMA Printer to WiFi", ensure you have the following:

• Operating system: Windows/ Mac, tablet, or phone.

• Printer: Canon PIXMA printer

• Stable connection: A working WiFi network router

• WiFi password: If it is long, write it down on a piece of paper.

Step 2: Connect Your Canon PIXMA Printer to WiFi

Connecting your Canon printer to WiFi is simple. Whether you're using a smartphone, computer, or the printer's own screen, there's a method to suit your setup. Below are four different methods to connect your printer to a wireless network:

Method 1: Printer's Control Panel

This method is for models with a display screen. If you want to connect your printer to WiFi via the printer's control panel, you can follow these steps:

1. First, turn on your printer.

2. Ensure the printer is placed within the effective range of your WiFi network.

3. After that, go to the wireless settings menu (often labeled Network Settings or similar).

4. Now, find an option: Wireless LAN setup or WiFi setup. You can highlight it using the arrow or directional buttons.

5. Then, press OK to select it.

6. Next, the printer will display a list of available WiFi networks.

7. Select your desired network.

8. If prompted, enter your WiFi network password.

9. Follow any remaining instructions to confirm the connection and complete the setup process.

10. Wait for the confirmation message (e.g., Connected successfully).

Note: Passwords are case-sensitive, so enter them carefully.

Method 2: Canon PRINT App

If you're a Smartphone user like me who wants quick setup and mobile printing, you can connect your printer to WiFi with the help of this method:

1. Download the Canon PRINT app from your device's app store (either through Google Play Store or Apple App Store).

2. After that, launch the Canon PRINT app.

3. Follow the in-app commands to add your printer.

4. Search for printers on the network and select your model from the list.

5. Now, the app will guide you through connecting your printer to your WiFi network, which requires selecting your network and entering the password.

Method 3: WPS (WiFi Protected Setup)

Before you initiate this method, verify that your router has a WPS button and supports WPS. Only proceed after verifying compatibility.

Note: This method is only suitable for routers and printers that support WPS.

What is WPS? WiFi Protected Setup, which is on many routers, simplifies the process of connecting devices to a secure WiFi network. Instead of manually entering a long and complex password, WPS allows you to connect devices using a push of a button or PIN code.

Let's see how:

1. Power on your printer.

2. You can access the printer's wireless settings through the control panel (usually by pressing the WiFi button and navigating the menu).

3. Then, choose the WPS button mode from the available options.

4. Now, press the WPS button located on your wireless router.

5. The printer will try to connect to the WiFi network.

6. If successful, the WiFi indicator light on the printer will light up.

Method 4: WiFi Direct Mode

For printing without a WiFi router, this method is best for one-to-one printing without an internet connection or a router.

1. Turn on your printer and access the setup menu.

2. Enable Wireless Direct on your printer by going to Device settings and then LAN settings.

3. After that, select the switch WL Direct and then confirm the action.

4. Don't forget to note down the displayed network name (SSID) and password.

5. On your computer or mobile device, go to your WiFi settings.

6. Find the printer's network (SSID) in the list of available printers and select it.

7. Now, enter the password displayed on the printer.

8. Print a scan from your device to confirm the connection.

Note: The default SSID and password for Wireless Direct can be found on the printer itself or by printing a network configuration page.

Step 3: Verify Your Connection

To confirm a successful WiFi connection for your printer, you can follow these steps:

1. First, check that your printer is powered on and loaded with paper.

2. Now, go to the Network settings menu on the printer.

3. Select the option to print network settings or a network test page.

4. A successfully printed page confirms the WiFi connection.

5. A solid blue or green WiFi light indicates a successful connection.

Note: Now, your printer will appear as a WiFi printer on your computer or phone under print options.

   Frequently Asked Questions

Question

How to Connect My Canon PIXMA Printer to WiFi without a Computer?

Yes, you can connect your printer to WiFi without a computer. Use the WPS method or connect with a smartphone through the printer's menu. Some printers may require a smartphone app for the initial setup and network selection.

For WPS, press and hold the WPS button on your router until the WiFi indicator starts flashing. Once the WPS process is complete, the printer will connect to your WiFi network. You should download the Canon PRINT app, which will guide you further.

Question

Do I need Canon PRINT app to connect my Canon printer to WiFi?

 The Canon PRINT app is highly recommended for connecting printers to WiFi, especially for wireless printing and scanning. The app simplifies setup, management, and printing.

This app guides users through the WiFi connection process, making the task easier. It even allows users to check ink levels, manage print settings, and perform other printer maintenance tasks.

Question

Do all Canon PIXMA Printers Support Wireless Setup?

Not all Canon PIXMA models support wireless setup. While many Canon PIXMA printers offer wireless connectivity, some older or more basic models may not have this feature. To confirm if a specific printer model supports wireless setup, you must check its specifications and manual or refer to Canon's website for compatibility information.

If the printer has an LCD screen, it likely supports wireless setup. Look for a WiFi icon or button on the printer's control panel, which indicates wireless capabilities.

Source: How to Connect Canon Printer to WiFi