How to connect a Canon MG3640S printer to your phone via Wi-Fi: full instructions with pictures

Connecting a printer Canon PIXMA MG3640S Connecting your smartphone via Wi-Fi opens up a ton of possibilities: printing photos directly from your gallery, sending documents from email or messengers without a computer, and scanning on the go. However, many users encounter difficulties already at the pairing stage. The fact is that model MG3640S requires preliminary network configuration on the printer itself - without this, the phone simply will not see the device in the list of available ones.

In this article we will look at all connection methods (via a router, direct access point, USB cable), let's look at typical errors like E16 or 5011, and we'll give you a checklist for diagnosing problems. We'll also find out why Canon PRINT Sometimes it doesn't find the printer, even if it's connected to the same network. Spoiler: it's not always the printer's fault.

If you've never configured network devices before, don't worry—these instructions are tailored for beginners. We've included screenshots (enlargeable) for each step and included widgets with checklists, so you don't miss anything. And for experienced users, there's a section with alternative methods connections without official software.

Important: MG3640S supports networks only 2.4 GHzIf your router operates within the range 5 GHz, the printer won't be able to connect to it. You'll need to change your router settings or create a separate network. More details on this are in the section on setting up your router.

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1. Preparing the Canon MG3640S printer for Wi-Fi connection

Before connecting the printer to your phone, you need to make sure that the device itself is ready for network communication. MG3640S It is not connected to Wi-Fi by default - it must be configured manually through the control panel.

On the front panel of the printer, locate the button Wi-Fi (antenna icon). Press it on 5-7 secondsuntil the indicator starts flashing orange — this means the printer has entered network setup mode. If the indicator is green or unresponsive, check that the printer is plugged in and there are no paper jams (error E3 (blocks all functions).

The printer is now ready to connect. You have two options:

  • 📶 Via a router — the printer and phone connect to the same Wi-Fi network. Suitable for continuous use.
  • 🔗 Direct connection (Wi-Fi Direct) — the printer creates its own network to which the phone connects. Convenient for one-time tasks.

We recommend the first method, as it's more stable and allows you to print from multiple devices simultaneously. However, if you don't have access to a router (for example, if you're in a hotel), use Wi-Fi Direct.

2. Setting up a router for Canon MG3640S

The Canon MG3640S does not support 5GHz networks—only 2.4GHz.This is a key point: if your router broadcasts two networks (for example, MyWiFi_2G And MyWiFi_5G), the printer will only see the first one. If you have a single network with automatic range selection (technology Smart Connect), it will have to be divided.

Log into your router's control panel (usually at 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1>) and check the following settings:

  • 🔒 Security type: only WPA2-PSK (AES). MG3640S does not work with WPA3 or WEP.
  • 📡 Wi-Fi channel: Select a fixed channel (eg 6 or 11) rather than AutoThis will reduce interference.
  • 🔄 Channel width: install 20 MHz (not 40 MHz).

If you are unsure about the settings, use the compatibility table:

Router parameterRecommended valueWhat happens if it's not like that?
Range2.4 GHzThe printer won't see the network.
Security typeWPA2-PSK (AES)Error 5011 when connecting
Hiding the SSIDDisabledThe printer cannot find the network.
MAC address filteringDisabledThe printer will be locked
⚠️ Attention: If after changing the router settings other devices lose access to Wi-Fi, return the settings back and create guest network Specifically for the printer. It allows you to set the desired parameters without affecting the main network.

3. Connecting the printer to a Wi-Fi network

Now let's move on to the connection itself. Make sure the printer is in setup mode (the orange Wi-Fi indicator is blinking). Then follow the instructions:

  1. On the printer, press and hold the button Wi-Fi until it blinks blue indicator (network search mode).
  2. On your phone, open the list of Wi-Fi networks. Find the network with the name CANON_XX:MG3600_series (where XX are the last digits of the printer serial number).
  3. Connect to this network. No password required.
  4. Once connected, open your browser and enter the address http://192.168.1.1The printer's web interface will open.
  5. Select your home Wi-Fi network from the list and enter the password.

If the web interface does not open, try an alternative method:

  • 📱 Install the application Canon PRINT (links for Android/iOS).
  • 🔍 In the app, select Add a printer → Set up a new printer.
  • 📶 Follow the on-screen instructions to connect to the network.

The printer is plugged in | The Wi-Fi indicator is blinking orange | The phone is connected to a 2.4 GHz network | The MAC address filter is disabled on the router -->

Once successfully connected, the Wi-Fi indicator on the printer will light up. greenIf the LED continues to flash or remains orange, check:

  • 🔌 The entered Wi-Fi password is correct.
  • 📶 Distance between the printer and the router (no more than 10 meters without obstacles).
  • 🔄 Restart your router and printer.
What should I do if my printer won't connect to Wi-Fi?

If the printer still doesn't connect after several attempts, try resetting its network settings. To do this:

1. Turn off the printer.

2. Press and hold the button Stop/Reset and, without releasing it, turn on the printer.

3. Hold the button for 15 seconds until the power indicator flashes 14 times.

4. Release the button - the printer will reset Wi-Fi settings to factory settings.

After resetting, repeat the connection procedure again.

4. Install the Canon PRINT app and pair it with your phone

Official app Canon PRINT — the most convenient way to control your printer from your phone. It allows you to not only print, but also scan documents, check ink levels, and even set up double-sided printing. Download it from App Store or Google Play (free, no extra fluff).

After installation:

  1. Open the app and allow access to photos/files.
  2. Click Add a printer.
  3. The application will automatically find MG3640S on the local network. If this does not happen, click Manual search and select the model from the list.
  4. Confirm the connection on the printer (if required).

If the app doesn't see the printer, it's connected to Wi-Fi:

  • 📱 Restart the app Canon PRINT.
  • 🔄 Restart your phone and printer.
  • 🌐 Make sure your phone and printer are connected the same network (not to different routers or guest networks).
  • 🔒 Temporarily disable the firewall or VPN on your phone.
⚠️ Attention: On some firmware versions Android 12+ application Canon PRINT The printer may not be visible due to local network restrictions. In this case, try connecting via Wi-Fi Direct or use alternative software like PrinterShare.

5. Alternative connection methods (without Wi-Fi)

If Wi-Fi setup fails, there are backup options. They're less convenient, but they work 100% of the time.

Method 1: Direct connection (Wi-Fi Direct)

  1. Press and hold the button on the printer Wi-Fi until the blue indicator flashes.
  2. Connect to the network on your phone DIRECT-XX-MG3600_series (password - 12345678 by default).
  3. Open Canon PRINT and select the printer manually.

Disadvantage: with this connection the phone loses access to the Internet.

Method 2: Via USB cable (Android only)

  • 🔌 Connect the printer to your phone via USB OTG cable (requires OTG support on smartphone).
  • 📱 In Canon PRINT select USB connection.
  • 🖨️ Start printing - the data will be transferred directly.

Suitable for devices without Wi-Fi or when there are network problems.

Method 3: Via the cloud (Google Drive, Dropbox)

  1. Upload the file to cloud storage from your phone.
  2. On your computer, open the file and send it to print via Canon PRINT.
  3. If the printer is connected to the PC, it will print the document.

An indirect method, but works if other methods are not available.

6. Typical mistakes and their solutions

Even with proper setup, glitches can still occur. Here are the most common errors and how to fix them:

Error codeCauseSolution
E16No connection with the cartridgeReinstall the cartridges or clean the contacts
5011Wi-Fi connection errorCheck your network password or reset your printer.
6000Paper jamClear the jam and restart the printer.
B200Print head problemRun a deep cleaning through the printer menu.

If the printer is connected to Wi-Fi, but Canon PRINT he doesn't see it:

  • 📵 Make sure Wi-Fi (not mobile data) is turned on on your phone.
  • 🔄 Restart the app and printer.
  • 🔧 Disable this feature in your router settings AP Isolation (client isolation).

If printing works, but the document comes out blank:

  • 🖨️ Check the ink levels in your cartridges.
  • 🔄 Launch Cleaning the print head in the printer menu.
  • 📄 Make sure the correct paper size is selected on your phone (A4, not Letter).
⚠️ Warning: Error 5011 This is often caused by special characters in the Wi-Fi password (eg. #, $, !). Try temporarily changing your password to a simple one (for example, 12345678) for the test.

7. Optimizing printing from your phone

Now that your printer is connected, it's time to customize your printing experience. Here are a few tips for saving ink and improving quality:

Default settings (recommended to change):

  • 🖼️ Print quality: instead of High select Standard - this will save ink without significant loss of quality.
  • 🔄 Double-sided printing: Enable in the app settings to reduce paper usage.
  • 📏 Scale: install Fit to pageto avoid cutting off the edges.
  • 🎨 Color profile: for photos choose Photo, for documents - Text.

To print photos from your phone:

  1. Open the photo in the gallery.
  2. Click Share → Print.
  3. Select Canon MG3640S and configure the settings:
    • 📸 Paper: Glossy (for photo).
    • 🎨 Color: Colored.
    • 🔍 Without fields: Enable for full-size printing.

To print web pages without unnecessary details:

  • 🌐 In your browser (Chrome, Safari), open the menu and select Seal.
  • 🔄 In the preview, turn it off Background graphics And Headlines.
  • 🖼️ Set the scale 90%so that the text is not cut off.

8. Security and updates

Printers are rarely associated with cyber threats, but MG3640S — is a network device, and it also needs to be protected. Here's what to do:

Basic safety precautions:

  • 🔐 Update the firmware: come in Printer Settings → Software Update once every 3-4 months.
  • 🔒 Disable WPS on the router - this protocol is vulnerable to hacking.
  • 📵 Guest network: If your printer is used by strangers, connect it to a separate guest network.
  • 🖨️ Password for printing: In the printer settings, you can set a PIN code for each task.

To update the firmware MG3640S:

  1. Download the latest version from official Canon website (support section).
  2. Connect the printer to your computer via USB.
  3. Run the update file and follow the instructions.

Do not interrupt the process - this may damage the printer!

If the printer starts printing "garbage" (unclear characters, blank sheets):

  • 🔄 Restart your printer and router.
  • 📡 Check if any unauthorized devices have connected to your network.
  • 🛡️ Temporarily disconnect the printer from Wi-Fi and scan the computer from which the printing was performed for viruses.
⚠️ Note: The printer and router settings interface may differ depending on the firmware version. If you can't find the option you need, check the documentation for your model.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Can I connect MG3640S to a phone without Wi-Fi?

Yes, there are three alternative ways:

  1. Wi-Fi Direct: The printer creates its own network to which the phone connects.
  2. USB OTG: for Android smartphones with OTG support (adapter required).
  3. Cloud printing: Upload the file to Google Drive/Dropbox and print from your computer.

Wi-Fi Direct is the most universal option, but it means your phone loses internet access.

The printer is connected to Wi-Fi, but Canon PRINT can't see it. What should I do?

Check the following:

  • The phone and printer are connected to one network (not to different routers or guest networks).
  • The function is disabled on the router AP Isolation (client isolation).
  • Access to the local network for the application is allowed in the phone settings. Canon PRINT.
  • The printer is not in sleep mode (press any button to wake up).

If nothing helps, try connecting via Wi-Fi Direct or reinstall the application.

How do I print from my iPhone if my printer doesn't support AirPrint?

Canon MG3640S has no built-in support AirPrint, but there are workarounds:

  1. Use the app Canon PRINT - it completely replaces AirPrint.
  2. Connect the printer to your computer (Mac/PC) and turn it on General access in the print settings. Then your iPhone will be able to print from your computer.
  3. Install third-party software, for example Printer Pro (paid, but supports most printers).

Tip: To print from Safari or Photo select Share → Print → Select Printer and find it in the list MG3640S (if it is connected via Canon PRINT).

Why does my printer print blank sheets or stripes?

This is a common problem with low ink levels or dried-out nozzles. Try:

  • Cleaning the print head: Settings → Maintenance → Deep Clean.
  • Checking cartridges: Take them out and put them back in, make sure the protective tape is removed.
  • Head alignment: Settings → Maintenance → Print Head Alignment.
  • Ink replacementIf the cartridges are almost empty, refilling them may not help – it’s better to buy new ones.

If the problem persists, the print head may be clogged. In this case, contact a service center.

Is it possible to connect MG3640S to a public Wi-Fi network (in a cafe, hotel)?

Technically yes, but there are some nuances:

  • 🔐 Many public networks require authorization through a browser - the printer will not be able to pass this.
  • 📡 Networks with port blockade (for example, in hotels) may prohibit printing.
  • 🛡️ Security risk: Other network users can potentially intercept your documents.

Better to use Wi-Fi Direct or USB OTG In such cases, if you need to print via public Wi-Fi, check with the network administrator to ensure printing is allowed and request the manual connection details (SSID, security type).

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