Modern multifunctional devices are no longer bulky boxes that require a mandatory wired connection to a computer. Model Canon PIXMA MG3640S is a prime example of a compact solution that allows you to print, scan, and copy documents without unnecessary cables. However, initial wireless network setup often presents difficulties for users unfamiliar with the device and router's interactions.
Integrating a printer into a home network requires attention to detail, as an error at any stage can prevent the computer from recognizing the peripherals. In this article, we'll cover not only the standard steps but also specific nuances often overlooked in official manuals. You'll learn how to properly prepare the equipment, what software components are required, and how to troubleshoot common connection issues.
To successfully complete the operation you will need a stable Wi-Fi signal, access to the router's control panel, and, ideally, a smartphone or tablet for quick diagnostics. We'll cover direct printing, WPS, and manual driver installation, covering 99% of possible connection scenarios.
Preparatory stage and equipment testing
Before you begin software configuration, you must ensure that all system components are physically ready. Make sure that the MFP Canon MG3640S The unit is plugged in and the cartridges are installed in their slots. The power indicator should be solid and not flashing to indicate an error or standby mode.
Knowing your wireless network settings is crucial. You'll need the exact network name (SSID) and its password. Pay attention to the case: if the password contains an uppercase "A," a lowercase "a" won't work. It's also worth checking if Wi-Fi router correctly by connecting other devices to it.
If you use a dual-band router that broadcasts both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks, keep in mind that most budget printers, including this model, operate exclusively on the 2.4 GHz band. Make sure your mobile device or computer used for setup is on the same subnet as the one you plan to connect the printer to.
⚠️ Important: If AP Isolation is enabled on your router, devices on the same network will not be able to see each other. To use the printer, you must disable this feature in your router settings.
At the same time, it's important to prepare a location for the device. The printer must be located within a strong signal range. Reinforced concrete walls or metal cabinets can significantly weaken the signal, resulting in intermittent printing or complete loss of connection.
Direct connection method via Wi-Fi button
The fastest way to activate the wireless module on the device is to use the button on the front panel. On the front panel Canon MG3640S There's a button with an image of an antenna. Pressing it starts a search for available networks or puts the device into setup mode.
After pressing the button, the power indicator may begin flashing, indicating the device is waiting for a command. At this point, the device is ready to pair. If the printer has a display or additional indicators, they will flash in sync, indicating module activity.
What to do if the button does not respond?
If nothing happens when you press the Wi-Fi button, the function may be blocked by software. Try resetting the network settings by holding the Wi-Fi button and the "Stop/Reset" button simultaneously for a few seconds until the lights flash.
There's also a Direct Connect mode, where the printer automatically creates a network that you connect to from your phone. This is convenient for printing photos from your smartphone without a router. However, for full-fledged operation in the office or at home, it's better to integrate the device into the overall infrastructure.
Printers do not have the intelligence of routers and cannot automatically update network security information.
Setup via WPS technology
If your router supports the technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup), the connection process becomes extremely simple and doesn't require manual password entry. This is ideal for those who are concerned about making character errors or using a complex security key.
To begin, press the WPS button on your router. It's usually located on the back panel and may be combined with the reset button, so press it briefly. Then, you'll need to activate WPS mode on the printer within two minutes.
On Canon MG3640S This is done by holding the Wi-Fi button until the power indicator lights up or starts blinking in a specific pattern, depending on the firmware version. The device will automatically exchange encryption keys with the router and obtain an IP address.
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This method is good for its speed, but has a drawback: it does not work if the WEP encryption type is selected in the router's security settings (which is rare now, but can happen in older networks) or if the WPS function is disabled by the network administrator.
Installing drivers and software
Without the correct software, your computer's operating system will not be able to correctly interpret print commands. For the model Canon MG3640S It is strongly recommended to use drivers from the manufacturer's official website, rather than the included disks, as the disk versions often become outdated.
It's best to start the installation process after the printer has already been found on the network, although modern installers may prompt you to connect the device via USB for the initial network settings transfer. Select "Wireless LAN Connection" in the installer menu.
The setup program scans the network and finds available printers. If your MG3640S appears in the list, select it, and complete the installation. If the device is not found, the installer will prompt you to check the settings or connect temporarily via cable.
| Software component | Function | Necessity |
|---|---|---|
| Canon IJ Network Tool | Managing printer network settings | High |
| Canon IJ Scan Utility | Document scanning software | Average |
| Printer Driver | Basic Print Driver | Necessarily |
| My Printer | Monitoring ink status and levels | Average |
After installing all components, it is recommended to restart the computer. This will allow the system to fully register the new print services and document queues.
Troubleshooting IP Addressing Issues
One of the most common reasons a printer becomes unavailable is an IP address conflict or change. By default Canon MG3640S receives an address dynamically (DHCP), which means that the router can issue a new address each time it reconnects.
If a computer "lost" a printer, it's likely that its network address has changed, but the old one remains in the system. A solution may be to assign a static IP address directly in the router settings (binding the printer's MAC address to a specific IP address) or on the device itself using a utility. IJ Network Tool.
You can check the current address by printing a network configuration report. This usually requires holding down the "Stop/Reset" button until the power indicator flashes a certain number of times (usually 19 times, but it's best to check the manual for your revision).
It's also worth paying attention to the DHCP address range. If the router's address pool is small (for example, from 192.168.1.100 to 192.168.1.105) and there are many devices on the network, the printer may simply not have enough free addresses.
Diagnostics and troubleshooting
If the connection fails, first check whether the router can see the device at all. Go to the router's control panel and look at the list of clients. If Canon MG3640S It's there, but it doesn't print - the problem is in the drivers or firewall.
Antivirus programs often block network access to peripherals. Try temporarily disabling the firewall and testing printing. If this helps, add the printer to your security software's exceptions.
Another common issue is the printer's sleep mode. The device may disable the Wi-Fi module to save power and not wake up in time for a job. Deep sleep can be disabled in the power saving settings (via the web interface or utilities).
⚠️ Note: When upgrading your operating system (for example, from Windows 10 to 11), old drivers may no longer work. In this case, you must completely remove the device from the system and install the latest software.
Don't forget the simple things: rebooting your router and printer solves up to 80% of connection problems. Electronics tend to accumulate errors in the clipboard, and a full power cycle clears them.
Using cloud services and mobile applications
Modern models such as Canon MG3640S, often support cloud printing technologies, although functionality may be limited compared to more expensive MAXIFY series models. However, using the app Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY significantly expands the possibilities.
The app lets you scan documents directly to your smartphone, make adjustments (remove shadows, correct perspective), and send them to print or cloud storage. For these features to work, the printer and phone must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
Integration with services like Google Cloud Print (if supported by the current firmware) or AirPrint for Apple users is also possible. This allows you to print documents and photos directly from the browser interface or gallery without installing additional drivers on your PC.
How do I reset my printer's network settings to factory defaults?
To reset the network settings on the Canon MG3640S, turn off the printer. Press and hold the Stop/Reset button (the triangle in the circle). While holding it, press and hold the Power button. Release the Stop/Reset button while continuing to hold the Power button. Then press the Stop/Reset button 5 times. Release both buttons. The printer will reboot with the factory network settings.
Why is my printer printing slowly over Wi-Fi?
Network printing speed depends on the signal quality and the volume of data being transferred (especially photos). If the signal is weak, the printer loses data packets and requests them again, causing delays. Slow printing can also be caused by enabling "Quiet Print" or ink saving mode in the driver settings.
Is it possible to connect a printer to a hidden network (SSID Hidden)?
Yes, this is possible, but it requires manual configuration. Automatic network detection won't detect a hidden SSID. You'll need to use the network configuration utility on your computer to manually enter the network name (carefully capitalized) and encryption type, as automatic detection won't work in this case.
In conclusion, it is worth noting that wireless connection for Canon MG3640S This isn't just convenience, it's essential for fully utilizing the MFP's full functionality. Proper initial setup will save you many problems down the road and ensure the device operates reliably within your home network.