Multifunctional devices of the series Pixma MG Wireless devices often become the center of a home network, but sometimes it becomes necessary to break this connection. Users encounter situations where they need to completely disable the wireless module to switch to a cable connection or resolve IP address conflicts. Understanding How to disable Wi-Fi on a Canon MG 3640 printer, is a key skill for properly configuring peripherals in mixed networks.
Over time, equipment can accumulate incorrect configurations, causing it to stop responding or become stuck in router search mode. Forcefully disabling the Wi-Fi module allows you to reset the current network settings and start from scratch. This is especially important if you're changing providers, routers, or simply want to increase security by keeping the device running only via USB.
This article describes in detail all the available methods for managing the wireless interface on the model MG3640We'll cover both software methods via the device's control panel and hardware button combinations that forcefully disconnect the connection. You'll learn how to interpret indicator lights and avoid common mistakes when resetting network settings.
Why do I need to disable wireless mode on my MFP?
The main reason owners tend to disable Wi-Fi is because the wireless signal is unstable in specific operating conditions. If the printer is located far from the router or surrounded by metal obstructions, packet data loss can cause the device to constantly go into standby mode or generate print errors. In such cases, stable USB connection becomes the only correct solution for office work.
Another important aspect is network perimeter security. Office MFPs often become entry points for attackers if their firmware isn't updated and default passwords aren't changed. Disabling the wireless interface physically disconnects the device from the external network, leaving only a local connection to a specific computer. This reduces the attack surface and prevents unauthorized access to the print queue.
⚠️ Important: Before disabling wireless mode, make sure you have access to the device via USB cable or are prepared to reconfigure the network settings. After resetting, all saved SSIDs and passwords will be deleted from the printer's memory.
There are also scenarios where it is necessary to switch the printer's operating mode. For example, switching from infrastructure mode (via a router) to Direct-connection (direct connection) or vice versa. In some cases, operating system drivers may incorrectly detect a device if it is simultaneously accessible via both the network and cable, so disabling one of the communication channels solves the port duplication issue.
Analyzing Wireless Status Indicators
Understanding the device's signaling is the first step to successfully managing its functions. Model Canon MG 3640 equipped with an informative, albeit minimalistic, display panel. Wireless communication button Wireless It has a built-in LED that changes color and blinks depending on the module's current status. A green light typically indicates an active and successful connection to the access point.
If the indicator is orange or flashing, it indicates a problem. An orange light may indicate that the module is powered on, but the connection to the router has been lost, or that the connection is being established. Rapid flashing often indicates data transfer or an attempt to connect via WPSKnowing these signals helps you understand whether you've successfully disabled the feature or whether the device has simply gone into standby mode.
- 🟢 Green light: The Wi-Fi module is active and connected to the network.
- 🟠 Lights up orange: connection error or the module is on but there is no network.
- 🔵 Blinking blue/green: Pairing or data transfer is in progress.
- ⚫ Off: The wireless module is completely disabled.
It's important to note that indicator behavior may vary slightly depending on firmware version. If you observe unusual behavior, such as a constant orange light after a connection attempt, this may indicate an address conflict or incompatible encryption standards on the router. In this case, a complete deactivation and subsequent reset will be the most effective solution.
Method 1: Disabling via the printer control panel
The easiest and most obvious way to break the connection is to use the standard controls on the device's body. On the panel Canon Pixma MG 3640 There's no full-screen display, so control is via button combinations and LED indicators. First, make sure the device is plugged in and ready to use.
Find the button with an image of an antenna or the inscription WirelessA short press of this button typically initiates network search mode or turns the module on/off, depending on the current firmware logic. If the module was active (green indicator lit), pressing it can put it into standby mode or completely deactivate it, indicated by the LED going out.
In some cases, you may need to hold the button for several seconds. A long press (about 3-5 seconds) often initiates a network reset or mode switch. Watch the indicator light's reaction: if it starts flashing faster or changes color, the command has been accepted by the printer's processor. Wait until the cycle completes and the indicator light stabilizes in the off state.
☑️ Check before disconnecting
Method 2: Hard Reset
If disabling the device via the button doesn't work or the device is stuck in an error state, you need to perform a hard reset of the network settings. This restores the wireless interface settings to factory defaults, which effectively means completely disconnecting from the current network and clearing the memory of saved profiles. radical solution, which eliminates software glitches.
To perform a reset on the model MG3640 A combination of buttons is used. Typically, you need to press and hold a button. Stop/Reset (Stop/Reset) until the alarm indicator (orange triangle) flashes a certain number of times, or use a combination Wireless + StopThe exact sequence depends on the hardware version, but most often it works by holding the Stop button until you hear a beep or the lamps change behavior.
Network reset sequence:1. Press and hold the 'Stop/Reset' button.
2. Hold until the power indicator flashes orange.
3. Release the button.
4. Press the 'Wireless' button to confirm the reset (if required).
5. Wait until the indicators return to their original state.
After performing this procedure, all Wi-Fi settings will be deleted. The printer will enter connection standby mode, and the wireless indicator will likely start blinking, prompting you to reconfigure the connection. If you want to completely disable Wi-Fi, simply skip the reconfiguration procedure after the reset, and the module will remain inactive until the next attempt.
⚠️ Please note: Resetting network settings does not affect fax settings (if any) or print quality options, but it does delete all saved Wi-Fi network data. You will need to re-enter your router password if you decide to restore the wireless connection.
Using the Canon IJ Network Tool
For more in-depth control over settings, including forced protocol disabling, you can use specialized software from the manufacturer. Utility IJ Network Tool (or Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY (on mobile devices) allows you to view the connection status and manage network settings remotely while the printer is available in the system. This is convenient if the buttons on the printer's housing are slow to respond.
By running the program on a computer connected to the same network, you can go to the wireless settings section. There, you can often find the option to "Disable Wireless LAN." Using the software ensures that the command will be executed correctly, as the driver will confirm the action. This also allows you to disable specific features, such as AirPrint or cloud printing without turning off the entire module.
If the computer can't see the printer over the network, this method won't work, and you'll have to resort to the methods described above. However, if the connection is stable but unstable, using the official utility is the safest way to change the configuration without risking damaging the firmware with incorrect key combinations.
What should I do if the utility doesn't see the printer?
If IJ Network Tool doesn't detect your device, try temporarily connecting to the printer via USB. Select USB from the connection selection menu, make any necessary changes to the network settings (disabling Wi-Fi), and then switch back to a wireless connection (if needed in the future) or keep the USB connection. Also, make sure Windows Firewall isn't blocking the search for Canon devices.
Comparison of connection management methods
The choice of method depends on your ultimate goal and the current state of the device. A simple button press is suitable for a quick pause, while a reset is necessary for serious errors. The software method provides the greatest control but requires a working connection. Below is a table to help you choose the best method.
| Method | Complexity | Saving settings | Efficiency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wireless button | Low | Are saved | Average (depending on firmware) |
| Reset (Hard Reset) | Average | Are being removed | High (full cleaning) |
| Canon IJ Tool software | Low | Depends on the choice | High (precise control) |
| Disabling in the router | High | Are saved | High (blocking access) |
It's worth noting that blocking access through the router (via MAC filtering) is an external method. The printer "thinks" it's connected, and the lights may glow green, but it won't work. This is a useful life hack if you need to temporarily restrict a device's internet access without physically interacting with it.
Solution and troubleshooting
Even following the instructions, users may encounter issues. For example, after a reset, the printer may spontaneously attempt to reconnect if there's a previously known network with the same name (SSID) nearby. This behavior is built into the algorithms. Canon for the convenience of users, but can be annoying if the goal is to disable it completely.
Another issue is "stuck" status. The indicator may blink endlessly, indicating that the module is unable to turn on or off. In such cases, a reboot cycle can help: turn off the printer using the power button and unplug the power cord for 1-2 minutes. This will allow the capacitors to discharge and reset the controller's temporary memory buffer.
- 🔄 Infinite blinking: Perform a full reset of the device (pull it out of the socket).
- 📶 Self-healing: Change the name of your Wi-Fi network on your router so that the printer does not recognize it.
- 🔌 USB/Wi-Fi conflict: When a USB cable is connected, priority is often given to it, but it is better to explicitly turn off Wi-Fi with a button.
If none of these methods help and the indicators are behaving erratically, the problem may lie in a hardware fault in the wireless module or corrupted firmware. In this case, disabling the function via software is impossible, and the only solution is to contact a service center or use the device exclusively in wired mode, ignoring the error indicator.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will the printer's IP address be reset after disabling Wi-Fi?
Yes, a hard reset will reset the static IP address, if it was set manually, to automatic (DHCP). Simply turning the network off with the power button may save the settings, but they won't be active until you turn it back on.
Can I print via USB if the Wi-Fi light is on?
Yes, you can. Having an active wireless connection does not block USB operation. However, to avoid print queue confusion and port conflicts in Windows, it is recommended to disable unused interfaces.
Does turning off Wi-Fi affect printing speed?
Disabling the module itself doesn't directly increase print speed. However, switching to a wired connection (USB) eliminates delays associated with wireless data transfer, making printing large documents or photos more stable and faster.
What should I do if the Wireless button does not respond to pressing?
If the button doesn't respond, the control panel may be locked or there may be a software error. Try performing a full power cycle. If that doesn't help, use the software method via the Canon utility on your computer.