Modern wireless technology allows you to forget about cumbersome wires that often get tangled underfoot and hinder free movement around the room. Connecting a multifunctional device Canon PIXMA MG3640 Connecting to your home network allows you to print and scan documents from any device within the router's coverage area. This process doesn't require extensive technical knowledge, but it does have its own nuances, which we'll explore in detail.
Before you begin software configuration, you must ensure that the hardware is physically ready for operation. Make sure that printer Plugged into a power outlet, and the cartridges are already installed inside the device. If you've just unpacked the device, be sure to remove all shipping straps and orange locks, otherwise the mechanism may malfunction during the first use.
It's also important to check the health of your laptop or desktop computer. For proper software installation, there must be at least 500 MB of free disk space. A stable internet connection is required to automatically download the latest driver versions from the manufacturer's official server.
Preparing to set up a wireless connection
The first step is to check your local network settings. You'll need to know the exact network name. SSID and a password to access it. If you haven't changed the router settings yourself, this information may be located on a sticker located on the bottom of the router.
Please pay attention to the frequency range in which your router operates. Model Canon MG3640 supports the standard 802.11b/g/n and operates exclusively in the 2.4 GHz band. If your router only broadcasts on the 5 GHz band, the printer simply won't see the access point, so make sure the 2.4 GHz band is enabled.
Place the printer no more than one meter from the router during setup. This will ensure the strongest signal and prevent errors during the transmission of setup packets. After successful configuration, the device can be moved to any convenient location within the coverage area.
Using WPS technology for quick setup
The easiest way to establish communication between devices is to use technology Wi-Fi Protected SetupThis method allows you to transfer network security settings automatically, without having to manually enter a complex password. Your router should have a button labeled WPS or the corresponding icon.
To start the process, press and hold the WPS button on the router for a few seconds until the indicator light starts flashing. Then, on the printer control panel Canon MG3640 Find the wireless button and press it. The power and network lights should start blinking alternately, indicating that the device is searching for a pair.
⚠️ Please note: The WPS function only works for two minutes after being activated on the router. If you don't press the printer button in time, you'll have to repeat the process.
Once paired successfully, the wireless indicator on the printer will glow solid blue. This means the device has received IP address From the router and ready to use. A computer connected to the same network can now detect the printer in the list of available devices.
What to do if WPS doesn't work?
The WPS function may be disabled in your router's security settings or may not be supported by your ISP. In this case, use the manual setup method using Canon's software.
Manual WiFi setup via the control panel
If the automatic method doesn't work, you'll have to enter the network information manually. On the printer's control panel, press the Wireless, and then the settings button (usually marked with a gear or a phone icon). Press the button until the indicator corresponding to the settings mode lights up.
Next, you need to start searching for available networks. The printer will begin scanning the air, and you will be prompted to select your network on the screen or through flashing indicators (depending on the specific interface version). For the model MG3640 A combination of buttons is often used to select a mode: press Wireless and the button with the image of a smartphone at the same time.
Password entry is done using the navigation buttons. This can be inconvenient, as the password can be long. Each press of a button changes the character or number. Make sure you enter the correct letter case, as WiFi password case sensitive.
☑️ Verify your password before entering it
Installing drivers and software
Once the printer is connected to the router, you need to install the software on your laptop. It's best to download the latest driver package from the manufacturer's official website, as the included discs may contain outdated software versions. Go to the support page and enter your model. Canon MG3640.
Run the downloaded installation file. The installation wizard will prompt you to select a connection type. Select "Wireless LAN Connection." The program will search for the printer on the network. If the device is found, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
During the installation process, you may be asked to confirm the printer's use over the network. Agree to the terms and conditions, and the system will complete the port configuration. After this, a new icon with an image of your MFP will appear in the Devices and Printers folder.
Troubleshooting and diagnostics
Sometimes the computer doesn't detect the printer, even if the lights are green. In this case, check whether the laptop and printer are connected to the same network. A common error is when one device is connected to a guest network and the other to the main network, or when the 5 GHz band is used instead of 2.4 GHz.
Reset the printer's network settings if previous attempts have failed. To do this, press and hold the button Wireless until the power indicator flashes several times. This will reset the network settings to factory defaults.
Check your firewall or antivirus settings on your computer. They may be blocking detection of network devices. Try temporarily disabling them to see if the issue resolves. If the printer is visible, add it to the exceptions list.
| Indicator | State | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power | It's green | The device is turned on | No action required |
| Wireless (Network) | Flashing blue | Searching for network / Error | Check your router settings |
| Wireless (Network) | It's blue | Connection established | You can print |
| Alarm | Flashing orange | Error (out of paper/ink) | Check trays and cartridges |
Mobile device connectivity and cloud printing
Modern models such as Canon MG3640, support printing from smartphones and tablets. This is done using technology AirPrint (for iOS) or Mopria (for Android). Make sure your mobile device is connected to the same WiFi network as the printer.
For advanced features, you can register your device with the service. Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHYThis app not only lets you print photos but also scan documents directly to your phone. Registration requires creating an account and linking your printer with a unique code.
⚠️ Important: For cloud features to work, the printer must have constant internet access. If the router is disconnected from the global network, remote printing will not work, even if the local connection remains.
The direct printing feature allows you to send documents to print without using a computer. Simply open a photo or document on your phone, select "Share," and find your model in the list of available printers. Canon MG3640.
Optimizing wireless network performance
To ensure stable print speeds, it's recommended to assign a static IP address to the printer in your router settings. This will prevent the device's address from changing after a router reboot, causing your computer to lose connection.
Place the printer away from sources of electromagnetic interference, such as microwave ovens, cordless phones, and Bluetooth speakers. These can interfere with the 2.4 GHz band, causing connection interruptions and errors when printing large documents.
Regularly update your printer's firmware whenever the manufacturer releases new versions. This improves compatibility with new routers and patches potential security vulnerabilities. You can check for updates through the device menu or using specialized software on your computer.
Is it possible to print online from another country?
Standard methods (local network) – no. Printing from anywhere in the world requires setting up the manufacturer's cloud services or using third-party print gateways.
Why is the printer not found after installing the drivers?
Most often, the problem stems from network differences. Make sure your laptop and printer are connected to the same router. Also, check if your antivirus software is blocking network discovery. Try temporarily disabling Windows Firewall.
What password should I enter if WPS does not require a PIN code?
If the WPS method with a pushbutton doesn't require a PIN, then a push-button configuration is used. If a PIN is required, it can be found in the printer settings menu or by printing a network configuration report by pressing the appropriate button combination.
Can Canon MG3640 be connected to a 5GHz network?
No, this model only supports the 802.11b/g/n standard, which operates in the 2.4 GHz frequency range. To connect to a dual-band router, ensure the 2.4 GHz network is enabled and has a different SSID than the 5 GHz network.
What should I do if the orange alarm indicator is on?
Orange indicator Alarm indicates an error. This could be due to a paper jam, out of ink, or an open cover. Check your computer screen—a message will usually appear there with a precise description of the problem.