Changing internet providers, updating a home router, or simply changing the security password often forces users to reconfigure their connected devices. If you're wondering how to change the Wi-Fi network on a Canon printer, you've encountered a common, but solvable, problem. Modern multifunctional devices (MFPs) have complex operating logic, but the process of reconnecting them to a new access point is standardized by the manufacturer.
The process for changing a wireless connection is fundamentally different from simply entering a password on a smartphone. The printer must completely disconnect from the old connection and authenticate in the new environment. It's important to understand that to successfully complete this process, you'll need access to the device itself and, ideally, a computer or mobile device on hand to install drivers or run configuration utilities.
Depending on your model Canon PIXMA or Canon MAXIFYThe menu interface may vary. Some feature a full touchscreen, while others feature a modest monochrome display with two navigation buttons. Regardless of the configuration, the sequence of actions remains logical and consistent, requiring only careful attention when entering the characters for the new security key.
Preparing to change your wireless connection
Before you begin manipulating the printer menu, you need to make sure the new Wi-Fi network is fully operational. The router must be turned on, and the signal must be stable in the room where the printer is located. If you are replacing the router, make sure it is configured to operate within the same range. 2.4 GHz, as many Canon printer models do not support 5 GHz frequency.
Find out the exact network name (SSID) in advance and prepare a new password. Pay attention to letter case: the system distinguishes between uppercase and lowercase characters. It's also worth checking whether MAC address filtering is enabled on your router, which could block connections from unfamiliar equipment. If this protection is enabled, you'll first need to whitelist the printer's address through the router settings.
☑️ Ready for reconfiguration
Some older models may require temporarily connecting the device to a computer via a USB cable for initial wireless module setup. Although modern models support direct setup from the control panel, having the cable handy can be a lifesaver if the wireless method is unavailable or intermittent.
Using the wireless button on the case
The fastest way to search for a new network on most Canon models is to use a physical button. On the control panel, look for a button with an antenna or a smartphone icon. It's usually located separately from the navigation buttons. Press and hold this button for a few seconds until the power or wireless indicator light starts flashing.
Once the indicators start flashing, the printer will enter search or setup mode. On models with a display, the corresponding menu will appear on the display. If there's no display, the blinking Wi-Fi indicator means the device is ready to pair. At this point, you can use WPS if your router supports it and you want to quickly transfer network settings.
What to do if the button does not respond?
If holding the wireless button doesn't produce a response, the function may be blocked in the software or the device may be frozen. Try unplugging the printer, waiting 10 seconds, and then plugging it back in. If the problem persists, check the back panel for a "Stop" or "Reset" button to reset the network settings to factory defaults.
It's important not to release the button too soon. Activating setup mode often requires holding it for 3-5 seconds, while a full network reset can take up to 15 seconds or more. The exact time varies depending on the specific series. Canon, so watch for changes in the blinking pattern of the indicators.
Setting up via the printer control panel
If your device has an LCD screen, the process of changing the network is the most straightforward. You need to enter the device's settings menu. Navigate using the arrow buttons or by tapping the screen. Look for a section that may be called Device settings (Device Settings) or simply Settings.
Inside the menu, find the item LAN settings (LAN settings). This is where all the settings for your wired and wireless connections are located. Select the option Wireless LAN settings (Wireless LAN settings). The system will offer you several options, including changing the network or reconfiguring it.
Select an item Change network or ReconnectThe printer will begin scanning for available access points. Find the name of your new router in the list that appears. If the network is hidden, select the option to manually enter the SSID. After selecting the network, the device will prompt for the password (security key).
Password entry can be accomplished in different ways. On touchscreen models, it's a full keyboard. On budget models with a monochrome screen, entry is done using navigation buttons: you select a character by moving the cursor and confirm it by pressing a button. OK or BlackThis process may take time, but it is necessary to establish a secure connection.
Using the Canon IJ Network Tool
For users who find it inconvenient to enter passwords using buttons on a small printer screen, or for models without a display, software is the ideal solution. IJ Network Tool Allows you to manage your printer's network settings from your computer. This is especially useful if the printer has already been connected to the PC and the drivers have been installed.
Launch IJ Network Tool on a computer connected to the new Wi-Fi network. A list of available printers will appear in the main window. Select your device from the list. If the printer isn't currently connected to any network, it may show as "Offline" or not be detected. In this case, you'll need to first enter setup mode using the button on the printer's housing.
| Parameter | Meaning / Description | Where to find |
|---|---|---|
| SSID | The name of your new wireless network | On the router sticker |
| Security | Encryption type (usually WPA2-PSK) | In the router settings |
| IP Address | Printer address on the network | Printing a network report |
| Port | Connection port (CNBJNP or USB) | Printer properties in Windows |
In the utility interface, go to the wireless settings tab. Click the network setup or change button. The program will prompt you to select a new network from the list of available networks on your computer. Select your router, enter the password in the window that appears on your PC screen, and click "Apply." The data will be transferred to the printer, and it will attempt to connect.
Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY mobile app
The most modern and convenient way to reconfigure Wi-Fi on a Canon printer is to use a smartphone app. Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY Available for iOS and Android, it takes care of all the complex configuration work, automatically transferring Wi-Fi settings from your phone to the printer.
Make sure your smartphone is connected to the new Wi-Fi network. Launch the app and tap the "Add Printer" button (usually the plus sign in the corner). The app will begin searching for devices. If the printer is in setup mode (the indicator light is flashing), the app will detect it and prompt you to register it.
⚠️ Attention: To use the Wi-Fi settings sharing feature, the app may request location and local network access permissions. This is necessary to detect the printer on the local network. Without these permissions, the setup process may fail during the device search.
Follow the instructions on your smartphone screen. You may be asked to press the Wi-Fi button on the printer at a specific time. The app will automatically tell you when to do this. After successful pairing, the phone will transmit the SSID and password of the new network directly to the printer module, and the device will connect to the internet.
Reset network settings to factory defaults
If the printer has forgotten old networks or refuses to connect to a new one, the most effective method is a full network reset. This doesn't affect personal files or page counters; it only clears the wireless connection table and IP settings.
To perform a reset without a menu (on models without a screen), a button combination is often used. Find the button Wireless (or Direct) and the button Stop (or Reset). On many PIXMA series models, you need to press and hold the button Direct (or the button with a triangle in a circle) until the power indicator flashes a certain number of times (usually 1-2 times), and then release.
Reset combination (approximate, depends on the model):1. Press and hold the "Stop" button (red triangle).
2. Press the "Wireless" button twice.
3. Release the "Stop" button.
4. Press the "Stop" button 4 more times.
5. Release all buttons.
After the reset, the Wi-Fi indicators should begin blinking rapidly, indicating the printer is ready for reconfiguration. You can now repeat the connection process as if the device had just been taken out of the box. This often resolves issues with IP address conflicts or security protocol errors.
Diagnostics and troubleshooting
Even if you follow all the steps correctly, you may still encounter difficulties. If the printer doesn't connect, check to see if the signal strength is too weak where the printer is installed. Walls, microwaves, and other electronic devices can cause interference. Try temporarily moving the printer closer to the router to test.
Another common issue is incompatible encryption standards. If a new router is set to mixed encryption mode or the outdated WEP, the printer may not work. It is recommended to set the router to forced mode. WPA2-PSK (AES), which is the de facto standard for home appliances.
⚠️ Attention: Router interfaces and printer firmware are subject to update. If the steps above don't apply to your device, please consult the official user manual for your specific model, as the button sequence may vary slightly.
It's also worth checking the frequency range. Many Canon printers only support 2.4 GHz. If your router broadcasts a 5 GHz network with the same name (Smart Connect), the printer may be trying to connect to the wrong frequency. Separate the networks on the router by giving them different names (for example, HomeWiFi and HomeWiFi_5G), and connect the printer to the 2.4 GHz network.
Why doesn't the printer see the new Wi-Fi network?
There could be several reasons: the router is operating in the 5 GHz band (the printer only sees 2.4 GHz), AP client isolation is enabled, the signal is too weak, or the network is hidden. Try temporarily disabling SSID hiding and check for visibility.
Is it possible to change the network without a computer?
Yes, this is possible. If your printer has a display, use the device's menu. If it doesn't, use the WPS button on your router and printer (if supported) or the Canon PRINT mobile app, which acts as a bridge for transferring settings.
What to do if you forgot your Wi-Fi password?
The Wi-Fi password isn't stored in plain text on the printer; it can't be read from the device. You'll need to find the password on the router's sticker, in your ISP contract, or in the settings of any other connected device (for example, in the network properties on Windows or in the Wi-Fi keys on Android).
How to print a network report?
A report is often required for diagnostics. On models with a display: Menu → Device settings → Print report → Network info. On models without a display: Press and hold the "Stop" button (or "Wireless" button, depending on the model) for a few seconds until the printer starts printing.