Setting up wireless connectivity for office equipment can often be a challenge, especially when it comes to popular but finicky entry-level models. Canon MG3640 This MFP offers excellent functionality for home use, but its initial setup requires careful attention and careful following of the steps. Incorrect driver installation or skipping the network settings reset can result in the computer simply not "recognizing" the printer on the local network.
In this article, we will analyze all the nuances of connecting the model Canon PIXMA MG3640 Connect to your router using both automatic WPS methods and manual configuration via software. You'll learn how to avoid common errors related to antivirus blocking or incorrect connection type selection, and ensure stable operation of your device without unnecessary wires.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
Before you begin installing software and configuring network settings, you need to make sure your environment is ready to go. Wireless connection Requires the router to be turned on, configured, and broadcasting a signal the printer can receive. Make sure you know your Wi-Fi network password, as it will be required during the configuration process. It must be entered correctly and case-sensitive.
It's also worth checking the physical condition of the MFP itself. Make sure the cartridges are installed, the paper is loaded, and the model itself Canon MG3640 Plugged into a power outlet. It's important that the device is within range of the router's signal during setup, otherwise the process may be interrupted during the network search phase.
☑️ Preparing for connection
Please pay attention to the operating system version of your computer or laptop. Drivers for Canon MG3640 must be strictly compatible with your operating system, whether Windows 10, Windows 11, or macOS. Using outdated software versions may cause the network port to malfunction.
⚠️ Caution: If your router broadcasts both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies under the same SSID, the printer may attempt to connect to the 5 GHz band, which it does not support. Temporarily separate the networks or ensure that the 2.4 GHz band is prioritized.
Resetting the printer's network settings before installation
One of the most common reasons why you can't connect Canon PIXMA MG3640 The old configurations saved for the new network are the ones you'll need to save. If the device was previously used with a different router or the settings were reset, you'll need to perform a full network reset. This will return the Wi-Fi adapter to its factory settings and allow you to start setup from scratch.
To perform a reset, find the button on the control panel Wireless (antenna icon). Press and hold it until the power indicator flashes once. Then press the button Black (black and white copying) or Color (color copying), and then press the button again WirelessThe network indicator should start blinking, indicating that it is ready to search for a new access point.
What to do if the Wi-Fi indicator is not blinking?
If the wireless indicator doesn't start flashing after the reset, the buttons may be stuck or the controller may be malfunctioning. Try unplugging the printer for 30 seconds, then repeat the reset. If this doesn't help, check to see if the "Auto Power Off" mode is activated, which could completely cut off power to the Wi-Fi module.
After a successful reset, the device will enter connection standby mode. Now you can proceed to choosing a pairing method. For the model Canon MG3640 There are two main options available: quick connection via WPS (if your router supports this feature) and classic installation via USB cable followed by conversion to wireless mode.
WPS method: quick connection without cable
Technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) allows you to connect Canon MG3640 Connect to the network without entering a password or using a setup cable. This is the easiest method if your router has a corresponding physical button or a software function in the web interface.
To get started, click the button Wireless on the printer's control panel and hold it until the power light flashes. Then press the button Color or Black, and then again WirelessThe network indicator will start flashing. Within 2 minutes, press the WPS button on your router. The devices will automatically find each other, and the Wi-Fi indicator on the printer will turn solid, indicating a successful connection.
- 📡 Find the WPS button on your router (often marked with two arrows or a lock icon).
- 🖨️ Activate search mode on the Canon MG3640 by holding the Wireless button.
- ⏱️ Please allow 2 minutes between activating the mode on the printer and pressing the button on the router.
- ✅ Wait until the wireless network indicator stops blinking and remains on continuously.
If automatic connection doesn't occur, your ISP or router model may have restrictions on WPS. In this case, you'll need to use the software setup method, which requires a temporary USB cable connection.
Installing drivers and software via USB cable
The most reliable way to ensure proper operation of all scanning and printing functions is to install the full driver package from the official website. Download the latest software version for your model. Canon PIXMA MG3640 From the manufacturer's website, select your operating system. Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
When the setup program asks about the connection type, select "Connect via wireless network." Next, you'll be prompted to connect the MFP to your computer using a USB cable. Important: Connect the cable only when the program explicitly asks for it. Connecting it too early may trigger the standard Windows driver, causing a conflict.
During installation, the program will detect the printer and prompt you to transfer your Wi-Fi network settings. Select your network from the list, enter the password, and wait for the transfer to complete. Once successfully configured, the program will prompt you to disconnect the USB cable. Once the cable is disconnected, the Wi-Fi indicator on the printer should turn green, confirming wireless operation.
⚠️ Important: During the installation process, your antivirus software or Windows Firewall may block network discovery of the printer. If the installation freezes while searching for the device, temporarily disable network protection or allow the Canon app full access.
Setting up a static IP address for stability
For an office environment or if you plan to use the printer on a regular basis, it is recommended to assign it to the device static IP addressBy default, the router assigns an address dynamically (DHCP), and after rebooting the equipment, the address may change, which will lead to loss of connection with the computer.
To assign an address, log into your router's web interface (usually at 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1). Find the LAN or DHCP Server section and the list of connected clients (Client List). Find it in the list. Canon MG3640 by MAC address (indicated on the sticker on the case) and reserve a specific IP address for it, for example, 192.168.1.50.
Alternatively, you can configure a static address directly in the TCP/IP properties in Windows, but binding the MAC address on the router is a more reliable method. This will prevent situations where the computer stops seeing the printer after a power surge or router update.
| Parameter | Meaning (Example) | Where to find/change |
|---|---|---|
| IP address | 192.168.1.50 | Router settings (LAN/DHCP) |
| Subnet mask | 255.255.255.0 | Automatic/Router |
| Gateway | 192.168.1.1 | Your router's address |
| DNS | 8.8.8.8 | ISP or Google settings |
After applying the settings, it is recommended to reboot the printer and check the availability of the new address using the command ping in the command line. Enter ping 192.168.1.50 (or your address). If packets are coming and going, then the network connection is configured correctly.
Solved connection problems
Even if all instructions are followed, situations may arise when Canon MG3640 The printer refuses to work over the network. Often, the problem lies in the fact that the computer and printer are on different subnets or a guest Wi-Fi network is being used, which isolates the devices from each other.
Another common mistake is using the AirPrint driver or a generic Microsoft driver instead of the original Canon software. These drivers provide basic printing, but often don't allow you to view the ink status or initiate network scanning. Always use the specific drivers from the manufacturer's website.
- 🔌 Check that the USB cable is not connected after completing the wireless setup - its presence will disable Wi-Fi before it can be used.
- 📶 Make sure your computer and printer are connected to the same network (not a guest network).
- 🛡️ Check your sharing settings in Windows Control Panel.
- 🔄 Reboot your router if the list of networks in the setup program is empty.
If the printer's error light is flashing, alternating with the power light, this may indicate a problem with the cartridges or paper, which can also block network functions. Make sure the device is ready to print locally before attempting network setup.
Why doesn't the computer detect the Canon MG3640 after setup?
Most often, the problem lies with Windows Firewall or antivirus software, which are blocking incoming connections from the printer. Try temporarily disabling them. Also, make sure the Print Spooler service in Windows is running.
Can Canon MG3640 be connected to a 5GHz network?
No, the Wi-Fi module in the MG3640 model only supports the 802.11 b/g/n standard at 2.4 GHz. If your router only provides 5 GHz, the printer will not be able to connect. You must enable 2.4 GHz mode in your router settings.
How can I find out the IP address of my printer if it is already connected?
Press and hold the Stop/Reset button on the printer's control panel until the power light flashes once, then release it. The printer will print a network settings report, which will display the current IP address.
Do I need to connect the cable every time I turn it on?
No, the USB cable is only needed for the initial Wi-Fi settings transfer. Once configured, the printer operates completely autonomously over a wireless network, and the cable can be removed.