Modern office equipment requires mobility, and wireless connection is the standard for comfortable work. Model Canon PIXMA MG3640 While it remains popular due to its reliability, initial network setup often raises questions among users. The main challenge is syncing the device with the router to avoid unnecessary cables.
The pairing process can be accomplished in several ways, each with its own advantages. The choice of method depends on your router's configuration and whether you have physical access to the control buttons. In this article, we'll cover all the current setup options. Wi-Fi module for this series of MFPs.
It's worth noting that before beginning the process, you need to ensure the access point itself is working properly. If other devices connect without issue, the problem lies with the algorithm for integrating the MFP into the network. Let's look at this often-overlooked preparatory step.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
Before you begin the active setup phase, make sure that your MFP Canon MG3640 is in good working order and has cartridges. The power indicator should be solid and not blinking to indicate an error. It's also critical to know WiFi network password, since without it authorization is impossible.
Please pay attention to the frequency range supported by your router. This printer model, like most devices in its class, operates exclusively in the frequency range 2.4 GHzIf your router only broadcasts a 5 GHz network, the printer simply won't see the signal.
⚠️ Important: Make sure that the Client Isolation feature is not enabled on your router, which prevents devices on the same network from exchanging data.
Place the printer no more than 3-5 meters from the router during setup to eliminate interference from walls or appliances. After this, you can proceed to choosing a specific wireless activation method.
Using the WPS button for quick synchronization
The easiest way to connect is through technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)This method allows you to transfer network information automatically, without having to manually enter a complex password on a device that does not have a full screen.
Find the WPS button on your router. It may be physical or virtual in the router's web interface. Press and hold this button for 2-3 seconds until the security indicator starts flashing.
Immediately after this, go to the printer Canon MG3640On the control panel, find the button with a smartphone or network icon. Press and hold it until the power indicator flashes. Then, press the Black and White or Color Copy button to confirm.
☑️ Checklist for successful WPS setup
The process takes about two minutes. If successful, the wireless network indicator on the front of the printer will stop blinking and remain lit. This means IP address received and connection established.
What to do if WPS doesn't work the first time?
If the lights continue to flash or go out, the timeout period (usually 2 minutes) may have expired. Repeat the procedure, but proceed quickly. Make sure WPS is enabled in your router's security settings, as some providers disable it by default.
Manual setup via the printer control panel
If automatic mode doesn't work, you'll have to use manual data entry. This method is more reliable, as you have personal control over the network selection. On the control panel, click the button Wireless (smartphone icon) and hold it until the power indicator flashes.
Next, click the button to select the connection type (usually this is the button Color Copy (or a dedicated arrow button, depending on the interface version.) The printer will begin searching for available networks. The list of found SSIDs will be displayed by blinking indicators or by printing a report sheet if the model supports list display. However, a combination of buttons is most commonly used to select.
In case of the model MG3640, which has a minimalist panel, often requires the use of the function Direct Connection or pressing the buttons sequentially to confirm the network selection from the list if it's the only one in range. However, the most common scenario for this screenless model is using the button Smartphone in combination with a button Wi-Fi to switch modes.
| Indicator | State | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Power | Flashing | Configuration mode is activated |
| Network (Wi-Fi) | Blinks slowly | Searching for network or waiting for connection |
| Network (Wi-Fi) | It's on constantly | Successful connection to the router |
| Network (Wi-Fi) | It doesn't burn. | The Wi-Fi module is turned off or there is an error. |
After selecting the network (if prompted, confirm with the Copy button), the device will attempt to connect. Make sure you're close enough to the router at this point.
Setup via direct connection (Canon Direct)
Function Direct Connect Allows you to connect your computer or smartphone directly to the printer, bypassing the router. This is convenient if you urgently need to print a document from your phone and your primary Wi-Fi connection isn't working. To activate, press the button. Direct (if there is a separate one) or use a combination of buttons on the panel.
On the device you plan to print from, open the list of available WiFi networks. You will see a name starting with Canon_ij_MG3600 series or similar. Connect to this network.
It's important to understand that in this mode, the printer creates its own local network. The computer connected to the printer may lose internet access if it doesn't support two network interfaces simultaneously. Therefore, this method is best used as a temporary solution.
To return to infrastructure mode (working through a router), press the wireless connection button again and select the appropriate switching mode. This action will disconnect the direct connection.
Installing drivers and software
Even if the indicators show a successful connection, the computer may not see the device. For full functionality, you need to install softwareGo to the manufacturer's official website and find the support page for your model. MG3640.
Download the full driver package, which includes scanning and maintenance utilities. During installation, select the "Wireless LAN" or "Wi-Fi" connection type. The program will automatically find the printer on the network if your computer and the MFP are on the same subnet.
⚠️ Note: Manufacturer website interfaces and installation file names may change. Always check the download file name against your device model before starting the installation.
If the automatic search does not return any results, select the "Set Manually" option and enter the printer's IP address, which can be found by printing a network configuration report (usually by pressing the Stop And Color Copy or via the menu on the PC after partial installation).
Diagnosing and troubleshooting common errors
A common problem is when the printer is visible on the network, but the print queue status is "Disconnected" or "Driver Error." In this case, try rebooting not only the MFP, but also the printer itself. routerOften, the problem stems from a frozen router's DHCP server, which hasn't assigned a new address to the device.
Another common mistake is the wrong network security type. Canon MG3640 may not support the latest encryption standards WPA3If you have a new router, try temporarily switching security to WPA2-PSK (AES) in the router settings to test it.
Also, check if MAC address filtering is disabled. Your printer's address can be found on the sticker on the back of the device or by printing a status report. Add this address to the list of allowed addresses in the router's web interface.
Why doesn't the printer see the 5 GHz network?
The Wi-Fi module in the MG3640 model operates only at the 2.4 GHz frequency. Routers broadcasting a 5 GHz network often hide 2.4 GHz networks or give them a different name. You need to enable broadcasting of both frequencies or switch the router to mixed mode.
What does the flashing orange light mean?
Orange blinking usually indicates an error. The number of blinks corresponds to the error code. For example, 3 blinks means a cartridge installation error, 6 blinks means a mechanism error. Wi-Fi errors are characterized by a specific green blinking network indicator.
How do I reset my network settings to factory defaults?
To reset network settings, press and hold the button Stop (Stop/Reset) on the control panel for a few seconds until the power indicator flashes. The exact combination may vary; refer to the hard reset manual.
Is it possible to connect a printer to a hidden network (Hidden SSID)?
Connecting to hidden networks on this model is extremely difficult or impossible without using the computer screen during setup, as the printer cannot display a selection list. It is recommended to make the network visible, at least during setup.