Modern printing is no longer tied to cumbersome cables and desktop computers. In the age of mobile technology, the ability to print a document or photo directly from a smartphone has become a standard of convenience. However, the initial setup process often raises questions, as it requires synchronizing security protocols and network settings.
Devices from the company Canon Support multiple wireless standards, including classic Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and cloud technologies. Understanding the differences between these methods will help you choose the best option for your situation. In this article, we'll cover the technical details of connection to avoid common mistakes.
Before you begin, make sure your MFP is turned on and within range of your router's signal. Also, check that your mobile device's wireless module is enabled and that you have permission to install new apps. These are basic, but critical, requirements for getting started.
Preparing equipment and choosing a connection method
The first step is to determine the technologies supported by your printer. Most modern models of the series Pixma And Megatank equipped with a full-fledged network module. Older or budget versions may only support Wi-Fi Direct, which creates a direct access point without the involvement of a home router.
If your device has a screen, you'll navigate the menu using it. Models without a display use a button combination, which requires careful attention. In any case, you'll need to know the password for your home Wi-Fi network, as it will be required to authorize the device on the local network.
⚠️ Attention: Canon printers often only operate on the 2.4 GHz band. If your router broadcasts both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks under the same name, this may cause conflicts when searching for the device. It is recommended to temporarily separate the networks in your router settings or use a 2.4 GHz guest network.
There are three main ways to organize printing:
- 📶 Via router: The printer and phone are connected to the same network, and printing is available to all devices in the house.
- 🔗 Wi-Fi Direct: Direct connection between phone and printer without internet, ideal for quick photo printing.
- ☁️ Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY: Using a proprietary application for advanced control and scanning.
Setting up a connection via a standard Wi-Fi network
This method is most preferable for an office or home where several people use the printer. The printer becomes a full-fledged member of the local network, receiving its IP addressTo start the process, find the button with an antenna or smartphone icon on the device's panel.
Press and hold the wireless button until the power light starts blinking. Then, search for networks on the printer itself (if it has a display) or use the WPS function on your router. If using WPS, press the corresponding button on the router, then activate the connection mode on the MFP.
If automatic connection does not occur, you will need to enter the parameters manually. On your smartphone or tablet, in the app Canon PRINT Select "Register Printer" and follow the setup wizard's instructions. The system will attempt to automatically read the network configuration.
☑️ Checklist for a successful connection
It's important to note that if you change your Wi-Fi password or replace your router, you'll have to repeat the process again. Printers can't guess new network credentials. In some cases, you'll need to perform a full reset of the device's network settings via the menu or a key combination.
Using Wi-Fi Direct technology for direct printing
Technology Wi-Fi Direct Allows you to create a direct connection between your mobile device and printer, bypassing your home network. This is especially useful if you're visiting someone or the router is temporarily unavailable. In this mode, the printer itself acts as an access point.
To activate the direct connection mode, press the direct connection button on the device. The network indicator will begin to blink, indicating that it is ready to pair. Your printer's name, often beginning with a prefix, will appear in the list of available Wi-Fi networks on your phone. Canon- or ij-.
When connecting, the system will ask for a password. By default, it is located on a sticker on the device or in the user manual. It is often an 8-character combination. After entering the password, the phone will establish a connection, and you can begin printing.
What should I do if my phone doesn't see the printer in Direct mode?
Make sure your phone's mobile data (4G/5G) is disabled while searching, as some operating systems prioritize mobile data over Wi-Fi. Also, check that you haven't reached the maximum number of connected devices (usually up to 5).
Please note that when using Wi-Fi Direct, data transfer speeds may be lower, and internet access on your phone may be temporarily lost if it does not support dual Wi-Fi bands. This is normal behavior.
Using the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app
To fully utilize all the MFP's features, including scanning and checking ink levels, you need the official app. It's available in Google Play And App StoreThe program takes on the role of a driver and control interface.
After installation, launch the app and allow access to your local network. The program will automatically scan the network and prompt you to add a device if it is found. If the printer is already configured on the network, it will appear in the list of available devices.
The app not only lets you print documents, but also create collages, scan to PDF, and adjust paper settings. It's the central hub for managing your Canon printing equipment. Update the app regularly to get new features.
| Function | Description | Required connection |
|---|---|---|
| Printing documents | Outputting A4 text files | Wi-Fi / Direct |
| Scanning | Digitizing documents and saving them to your phone | Wi-Fi / Direct |
| Photo printing | Printing images with editing | Wi-Fi / Direct |
| Checking ink | Monitoring the level of consumables | Wi-Fi / Direct |
The app interface is intuitive, but access to advanced settings may require registration with a cloud service. Canon CloudThis will allow you to print documents remotely from anywhere in the world, as long as the printer is connected to the Internet.
Solving common connection problems
Even with proper setup, problems may still occur. Often, the problem lies in frequency band mismatches or router security settings. If the printer isn't visible on the network, try rebooting both the router and the MFP simultaneously.
Another common cause is enabled AP Isolation on the router. This feature prevents devices within the network from communicating with each other, which blocks printing. Disable this option in your Wi-Fi security settings.
⚠️ Attention: Antivirus software or firewalls on your phone may be blocking the printer search on your local network. If you experience problems, temporarily disable the protection or add the Canon app to the exceptions list.
If all else fails, reset the printer's network settings to factory defaults. For most models, this is done by pressing the wireless button until the power light flashes 3-4 times. Then, set up the connection again.
Printing via cloud services and AirPrint
Apple device owners can use the technology AirPrint, which is built into iOS. No drivers are required. Your iPhone and printer must be on the same Wi-Fi network. When choosing to print in any app, simply select your Canon printer from the list.
For Android users, the equivalent service is Mopria or a built-in printing system. Modern versions of Android also automatically detect compatible printers on the local network. The process is as simple as possible for the user.
Cloud printing Canon Cloud Requires account registration and linking your device with a unique code. This method allows you to send documents to print via email. The file is converted in the cloud and sent to the printer even if it's turned off (provided Wake-on-LAN or a persistent connection is supported).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why won't my Canon printer connect to 5GHz Wi-Fi?
Most Canon printer models only support the 802.11 b/g/n standard, which operates in the 2.4 GHz band. 5 GHz routers use other standards (ac/ax), which are physically incompatible with the printer module. You need to connect to a 2.4 GHz network.
How to find out the IP address of a printer?
On models with a display, the address is displayed in the network settings menu (antenna icon). On models without a display, press the wireless button, then the color copy button. The printer will print a network connection report showing the current IP address.
Is it possible to connect a printer without a router?
Yes, using Wi-Fi Direct mode. In this mode, the printer creates its own network, which you connect your phone to. However, in this mode, the printer will not have internet access, and cloud printing features will not work.
What should I do if the app doesn't see the printer?
Make sure your phone and printer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network (same SSID). Check the app permissions in your phone settings—network access should be allowed. Also, try restarting the app.