How to Download & Install New Canon Printer Drivers? (Full Guide)

Printer drivers are essential for a Canon printer to process print commands from your computer. They enable communication between your printer and the computer. While they often download automatically, you might need to install them manually in some cases. As a tech expert with an IT background and years of experience fixing gadgets for family and friends, I’ll guide you through the steps to install a compatible driver on a computer.

Before we dive into the steps, make sure that you have a stable internet connection and know your printer's model name.

Step 1: Open Canon’s Official Website

Canon printer drivers are available on Canon’s official website. Hence, you need to open this website on an internet browser.

• Visit usa.canon.com in your browser, such as Chrome or Firefox.

• Then, click the Support option at the top.

Step 2: Find Your Canon Printer Model

• Search for your printer model name in the search bar.

• Then, select your printer name from the list.

Step 3: Download the Correct Drivers

1. Now, click the Software & Drivers option. It will automatically detect your operating system. (Note: Ensure you choose the driver compatible with your operating system.)

2. After that, you will see a list of Canon printer drivers.

3. Select a suitable driver package and click the Download button next to it.

The driver installer file will be downloaded and saved in your computer’s Downloads folder.

Step 4: Install Canon Printer Drivers

Once the drivers are downloaded, you need to install them using the steps given below.

Note: The driver file on Windows will be in the .exe format, and on Mac, it will be a .dmg file.

Locate the .exe (Windows) or .dmg (Mac) file in your Downloads folder, double-click it, and follow the on-screen instructions."

1. Go to the Downloads folder on your computer and search for the driver’s file.

2. Double-click on it and follow the on-screen steps.

3. Click Yes to allow the computer, and then an installation will begin.

Let the installation complete, and don’t turn off your computer during this process.

Step 5: Restart Your Computer

After downloading the driver file, you can restart your computer to finalize the changes using these steps:

• Click the Windows icon on your computer’s taskbar.

• Press the Power button and choose Restart to save changes.

Step 6: Print a Test Page

You’re finally ready to take a test print with your Canon printer. This step is important to check if the drivers are working properly.

1. Open a document or file on the computer.

2. Click the Print button on the computer or press Ctrl + P on the keyboard.

3. Now, print a test page to confirm functionality.

What if Canon Printer Drivers Fail to Install?

Drivers may fail to download due to issues with the printer’s connection or the installation process. If this happens, check for loose USB connections, broken cables, or interference from background programs, such as antivirus software. I’ve faced similar issues while setting up my printer. Fortunately, you can easily resolve installation problems by verifying your connections.

Method 1: Check USB Connection

If the computer’s connection is weak, the drivers won’t install completely. Hence, check the connection using the following steps:

1. Ensure that the USB cable is properly fitted to the computer’s port.

2. Ensure that the cable is not broken or damaged.

3. If you find them broken, replace them with a new one.

4. Try using a different or new USB port to connect the cable.

Method 2: Check Wireless Connection

Sometimes, when the internet connection is slow, the installation process can stop. In this case, check if your computer is connected to Wi-Fi or not.

1. To check, click the Wi-Fi icon located at the bottom right of your PC.

2. Then, check if it’s showing a network name or disconnected.

3. If it’s showing disconnected, click the icon and select your network’s name from the list of networks.

Your computer will be reconnected to Wi-Fi. You can try installing drivers again. I explained everything in this step-by-step guide. You must have understood it well enough to install the printer drivers for your Canon printer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question

How Do I Install Canon Printer Drivers on a Mac?

Use the following steps to install drivers on your Mac:

1. Visit usa.canon.com on a browser.

2. Then, find your printer model and select it from the list.

3. From the drop-down menu, select your OS (operating system).

4. Click the Download button next to the driver package.

5. Go to the Downloads location on Mac and locate the driver’s file.

6. Double-click on the file and allow it to install on your computer. 

Question

What Do Canon Printer Drivers Do?

Drivers for Canon printers are necessary because they help the printer understand print commands from a computer. They work like the printer’s brain, managing its functions and guiding it. Without these drivers, the printer won’t work.

Question

Do I Need Drivers if I’m Connecting My Canon Printer to My Phone?

No, you don't need to install drivers on phones. Instead, use the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app to connect your printer. Install this app on your phone and set up your printer. 

Source: How to Install New Canon Printer Drivers