Modern inkjet printers of the PIXMA G series from Canon, including the G6840, have long since ceased to be mere printing devices, becoming fully-fledged network nodes for office or home infrastructure. Wireless connectivity allows access to printing from mobile devices, scanning to the cloud, and work from anywhere within the home with network coverage. However, initial setup often presents difficulties for users accustomed to wired interfaces or simpler models without displays.
Integration process Canon 6840 Connecting to an existing Wi-Fi network requires careful consideration when choosing a connection method, as the device supports multiple protocols and operating scenarios. Depending on the operating system version of your router and the devices you use, the steps may vary slightly, but the basic logic remains the same. Proper network configuration ensures more than just internet access for your printer; it guarantees stable transfer speeds for large volumes of graphic data without connection interruptions.
In this article, we'll cover in detail all available methods for activating the wireless module, from classic setup via a computer to using WPS technology. You'll learn how to avoid common password errors and why it's important to update the firmware immediately after initial setup. Properly configured MFP (multifunctional device) will become a reliable assistant, and not a source of connection problems.
Equipment preparation and requirements verification
Before you begin software configuration, you must ensure that the equipment is physically ready to operate in wireless mode. Canon Pixma G6840 The printer is equipped with a built-in Wi-Fi module, but for it to function properly, it must be located within range of a strong router signal. If the printer is installed in an alcove or behind a thick concrete wall, even perfectly configured settings will not ensure reliable printing of large documents or high-resolution photos.
It's also critical to know your wireless network settings. You'll need the exact network name (SSID) and the access password. Pay attention to the password's case and keyboard layout, as entering even one incorrect character will result in authorization denial. Make sure your router broadcasts in the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz band supported by the printer, although modern models usually automatically select the optimal channel.
To complete the setup procedure, you will need one of the devices with network access: a smartphone based on Android or iOS, or a computer with an operating system Windows or macOSIf you plan to use mobile printing, make sure you have the app installed on your smartphone. Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY, which significantly simplifies the configuration process via a graphical interface.
⚠️ Note: If your router uses Smart Connect, which combines the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands under a single name, the printer may not see the network. In this case, temporarily separate the networks in the router settings or create a guest network with a separate name for older devices.
Direct connection method via the printer control panel
The most reliable and universal method is to configure the network directly through the device's touchscreen. This method allows you to visually monitor the connection process and see the results immediately. On the device's main screen, select the icon Settings (gear) or go to the wireless menu, often indicated by an antenna icon.
In the menu that opens, find the item LAN settings or Wireless LAN setupThe system will prompt you to select a connection method; for manual setup, select the option Manual connect or "Select Access Point." The printer will begin scanning the airspace and, after a few seconds, display a list of available networks within range.
- 📶 Select the name of your home or office Wi-Fi network from the list that matches the router's SSID.
- 🔑 Enter your access password, paying close attention to the letter case and the use of special characters.
- ✅ Confirm the entered data and wait for a message about a successful connection.
After successful authorization, the printer screen will display the IP address assigned to the device by the router, as well as the signal strength. This indicates that Canon 6840 The printer has been successfully integrated into the local network. Now you can proceed to installing the drivers on your computer, which will automatically detect the printer over the network.
☑️ Checking Wi-Fi settings
Using WPS technology for fast synchronization
If your router supports the technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) significantly simplifies the connection process by eliminating the need to manually enter a password. This method is ideal for situations where the network password is too complex or has been forgotten. On the printer control panel, go to the wireless network settings menu and select WPS (Push button).
Once the feature is activated, a countdown timer will appear on the printer screen, typically 2 minutes. During this time, you must physically press the button. WPS On the body of your router. Sometimes this button is combined with the Wi-Fi power button or hidden under a protective cover.
The devices will automatically exchange encrypted security keys. The wireless indicator on the printer will begin blinking, indicating the search and connection process. Once the connection is established, the indicator will stop blinking and remain solid, and a confirmation message will appear on the screen.
What to do if WPS doesn't work?
The WPS function may be disabled in the router's security settings or not supported by the ISP. Furthermore, some modern routers require connection confirmation via the web interface when attempting to connect new devices via WPS.
It's important to note that the WPS method is considered less secure by modern cybersecurity standards, as it uses a simplified key exchange protocol. For a home network, this is generally an acceptable risk, but in a corporate environment with high security requirements, manual configuration or certificate-based connections are better.
Setup via smartphone and Canon PRINT app
Mobile setup is the most convenient option for users who prefer to control their printer from their smartphone. First, make sure your phone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network you plan to connect the printer to. Download and install the official app. Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY from Google Play or App Store.
Launch the app and click the "Add Printer" button (usually a plus sign or "Add Device"). The app will prompt you to register a new device. Select your model from the list. Canon G6840Next, follow the on-screen instructions: the app will ask you to confirm that the printer is in setup mode.
- 📱 Click "Yes" or "Confirm" when the app asks if the printer is ready for setup.
- 📶 Select your Wi-Fi network from the list provided (it is already known to the phone).
- 🔄 Wait for the network settings to be transferred from your phone to the printer.
After the data transfer, the printer will automatically reboot its network module and connect to the router. The app will notify you of the success and prompt you to perform a test print. This method is especially advantageous because the app immediately installs the necessary software components for printing photos and documents.
If automatic detection doesn't occur, check the app's local network access permissions (especially relevant for iOS 14+ and Android 10+). Without this permission, the app won't be able to "see" the printer on the local network, even if it's already connected to Wi-Fi.
Connection problems and their solutions
Despite the best practices, users may still encounter connection errors. One of the most common issues is a mismatch in security standards. If your router is configured to only operate in wireless mode, WPA3, and the printer only supports WPA2, the connection will not be established. In this case, you need to enter the router settings and enable mixed mode (WPA2/WPA3 Mixed).
Another common reason is filtering by MAC addressesIf the router has a whitelist of devices enabled, the printer will not be able to access the network until you add its unique identifier to the allowed list. The MAC address can be found in the printer menu: Settings → Device Information → LAN Info.
| Symptom | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The printer does not see the network | Hidden SSID or Long Range | Enable network name broadcasting or move the router |
| Authorization error | Incorrect password or encryption type | Check your password and change the encryption to WPA2-PSK (AES) |
| Weak signal | Obstacles or hindrances | Use a Wi-Fi repeater or move the device |
| IP address not received | DHCP pool is full | Reboot the router or increase the address pool |
It's also worth paying attention to the frequency range. Some older or budget printer models may not support channels above 11 in the 2.4 GHz band or certain 5 GHz channels used in different regions. If the problem persists, try hard-coding the channel in your router settings (e.g., 1, 6, or 11 for 2.4 GHz).
⚠️ Note: Antivirus programs and built-in Windows firewalls may block printer discovery on the network. If problems occur, try temporarily disabling the firewall or adding the printer to the exceptions list.
Setting up Wireless Direct Printing
Function Wireless Direct Allows you to connect mobile devices and computers directly to the printer without using a router. This is especially useful in offices where guests need to quickly print a document, or if the main router is temporarily down. In this mode, the printer itself becomes an access point.
To activate this feature, on the printer screen, go to the wireless menu and select Wireless DirectThe device will create its own network with a name that usually contains the printer model (e.g. Canon-G6840-series). To connect, select this network on your smartphone or laptop.
When you first connect, the system will ask for a password. By default, it may be located on a sticker on the device or in the instructions, but you can change it through the printer menu for increased security. Once connected, you can print documents as you would over a regular network.
It's worth remembering that when Wireless Direct is enabled, data transfer speeds may be lower than through a full-fledged router, and only a limited number of devices (usually up to 5) can be connected simultaneously. Furthermore, devices connected directly to the printer may lose internet access unless routing is configured through a second network interface.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Canon 6840 be connected to a 5GHz network?
Yes, model Canon Pixma G6840 It supports dual-band operation and can connect to both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks. However, for stable operation in environments with many walls, it's better to use the 2.4 GHz band, as this range has better penetration.
What should I do if my printer loses Wi-Fi settings after changing my router?
You need to reset the printer's network settings and reconnect. Go to Settings → Device → LAN Settings → Reset LAN Settings, select "Yes", and then set up a connection to the new router using any of the methods described above.
Do I need internet access to print over Wi-Fi?
No, internet access is not required for printing over a local area network (LAN). The printer and computer/smartphone must be connected to the same router. Internet access is only required for cloud printing and firmware updates.
How to find the IP address of a printer on the network?
Click the button Information (the "i" icon) on the printer control panel or go to the menu Settings → Device Information → LAN InfoThe current IP address will be shown on the printed report or on the screen.