Establishing a wireless connection between a multifunctional device and a personal computer often seems like a complicated process that requires specialized knowledge, but modern technology has made this task much easier. Canon Pixma MG3640 This popular model supports direct printing from smartphones and local network operation, making it an excellent choice for home use. Its main advantage is that it eliminates the need to constantly keep a USB cable connected, freeing up ports and allowing the device to be placed anywhere convenient.
Before you begin the procedure, it is important to make sure that your router It distributes the Internet reliably, and the printer itself is filled with ink and ready to work. The key to successful setup is that the computer and printer are on the same Wi-Fi network at a frequency of 2.4 GHz, as this model does not support the 5 GHz standard. If you ignore this technical nuance, the device simply will not detect the access point, and the setup process will be interrupted at the initial stage.
In this guide, we'll cover several proven hardware synchronization methods, from automatic driver installation to manual configuration via the control panel. You'll learn how to use the technology. WPS We'll also cover situations where a static IP address or resetting network settings is required. Following these steps carefully will help you avoid common mistakes and enjoy wireless printing of documents and photos in just a few minutes.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
The first step is to visually inspect the device and check its physical condition, as even the slightest malfunction can block network communication. Make sure the power indicator is solid and the paper tray is open and loaded with paper of the correct size. A4If the light is flashing or orange, you must first resolve the error indicated in the operating instructions before proceeding with network setup.
It is also important to prepare the computer on which the software will be installed. For the operating system Windows 10/11 or macOS A free USB port is required during the initial driver installation, even if the ultimate goal is to use Wi-Fi. Some installer versions require a temporary cable connection to transfer network passwords, after which the cable can be safely removed.
⚠️ Important: Before connecting, make sure that MAC address filtering is not enabled on your router, otherwise the printer will not be able to access the network even if the password is entered correctly.
Check the charge of the cartridges, as many models Canon Block printing functions if ink levels are critically low or chips are not detected. It's also recommended to know the encryption type of your wireless network in advance, although in 99% of cases this is WPA2-PSKHaving this information on hand will speed up the data entry process if automatic detection fails.
Using WPS technology for quick setup
The fastest way to connect Canon Pixma MG3640 to a wireless network is to use the function WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method eliminates the need to manually enter a long password and minimizes the risk of typing errors. To implement this method, your router must also support this technology and have a corresponding physical button or software switch in the interface.
The process is started by pressing a button Wi-Fi on the printer control panel until the power light starts flashing. Then, within two minutes, press the button WPS on the router body. If everything is successful, the printer's LEDs will light up solid, indicating a successful connection.
- 📡 Press and hold the Wi-Fi button on the printer until the indicator light flashes.
- 🔘 Within 2 minutes, press the WPS button on your router.
- 💡 Wait until the wireless network indicator stops blinking and remains on continuously.
- 💻 Run the driver installation on your computer and select "Wireless Connection".
It's worth noting that not all providers and router models support this feature for security or firmware reasons. If the button is missing on the router or the connection fails within a few minutes, you should use manual setup via software, which is more versatile.
Manual driver installation and network configuration
If automatic methods don't work, you'll need to use the official software from the manufacturer's website. Download the installation file for your model. MG3640, selecting your operating system. During installation, the program will prompt you to select the connection type. Here, select "Wireless LAN."
The installer may prompt you to temporarily connect the device via USB to automatically transfer Wi-Fi settings. This is standard procedure for older models that lack a password entry screen. Once the printer receives network data, it will disable the USB port and enter wireless mode.
☑️ Pre-installation check
In some cases, manual entry may be required. SSID (network name) and password using the utility's dedicated menu. Be careful with case-sensitive letters, as wireless networks are case-sensitive. If the computer doesn't detect the printer after installation, try temporarily disabling your firewall or antivirus software, which may be blocking network device detection.
| Parameter | Meaning / Description | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi frequency | 2.4 GHz (5 GHz not supported) | Critical |
| Encryption type | WPA2-PSK / AES | High |
| Protocol | IEEE 802.11b/g/n | Average |
| Distance | Up to 10 meters without obstacles | Average |
Configuration via SoftAP (Direct Wireless) mode
Model Canon Pixma MG3640 Supports direct wireless mode, which allows you to connect mobile devices and computers directly to the printer without a router. In this mode, the MFP creates its own access point, which you connect to like regular Wi-Fi. This is especially useful if the main router is temporarily unavailable or located far away.
To activate this mode, you need to press and hold the button Direct on the device's panel until a corresponding message appears on the screen or the blinking pattern of the indicators changes. The configuration print screen (accessible via a key combination) will display the network name and password for connection.
⚠️ Note: When connecting via Direct Wireless, your computer may temporarily lose internet access as it switches to the printer's network.
Once connected to the printer's network, you'll be able to print documents, but won't be able to access the global network until you switch back. This mode is ideal for quickly printing photos from a phone or laptop when visiting someone without access to the main network.
What to do if Direct mode doesn't work?
If Direct Connection mode doesn't activate, it may be disabled in the device's deep settings. Try performing a full network reset by holding the Stop/Reset button until you hear a beep, then repeat the activation process. Also, make sure the device doesn't have any old static IP settings that conflict with access point mode.
Troubleshooting connection issues and errors
Even if you follow all the instructions, situations may arise where the computer "doesn't see" the printer on the network. One of the most common causes is the use of a guest Wi-Fi network. Guest networks often have client isolation, which prevents devices within the network from communicating with each other, only allowing internet access.
Another common issue is incompatibility of security standards. If your router is configured for mixed mode WPA/WPA2 or uses an outdated one TKIP, the printer may refuse to connect. It is recommended to switch the router to strict mode. WPA2-PSK (AES), which is a modern safety standard.
- 🔄 Restart your router and printer—this solves 80% of IP address assignment problems.
- 🔌 Disconnect the USB cable before searching for a wireless network.
- 📶 Make sure that the Wi-Fi signal where the printer is installed is strong enough (at least 2-3 bars).
- 🛡️ Check your Windows Firewall settings to see if the print service is blocked.
If the Wi-Fi indicator on your printer is blinking slowly, it means the device is attempting to connect but is unable to complete the handshake with the router. Rapid blinking typically indicates data transfer, while a steady light indicates a successful connection. Understanding this indicator helps you quickly diagnose the problem.
Mobile printing and additional features
After successful connection Canon Pixma MG3640 The network opens up wide opportunities for mobile printing. Using the app With Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY, you can scan documents directly to your smartphone and print photos from your gallery. The app automatically detects the printer on your local network if your mobile device is connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
Technology is also supported AirPrint for Apple devices and Mopria for Android, which allows you to print without installing additional drivers. Simply select a document, tap "Share" or "Print," and the system will suggest an available printer. This is especially convenient for students and office workers who need to quickly print from their tablet.
Don't forget about the cloud printing feature, which allows you to send jobs to your printer from anywhere with internet access. To do this, you need to register your device with the service. Canon PRINT Service and link it to your account. However, a stable Wi-Fi connection is required for the initial setup of this feature.
Why doesn't the printer see the 5 GHz network?
The Canon Pixma MG3640 is equipped with a wireless module that operates exclusively in the 2.4 GHz band. Routers broadcasting a 5 GHz network are physically undetectable by this device. Solution: Enable a guest network or a primary 2.4 GHz network in your router settings and connect the printer to that network.
How to find out the IP address of a printer?
To obtain network settings, press and hold the Stop/Reset button (the triangle in a circle) until the power indicator flashes once (approximately 10 seconds), then release. The printer will print a report showing the current IP address in the IPv4 line.
Is it possible to connect a printer to a hidden network?
Yes, but automatic search won't work. You'll need to use the USB cable connection method with settings transfer or manually enter the SSID and password through the Canon IJ Network Tool utility, selecting the "Manual Setup" option.
What to do if the orange indicator is on?
The orange indicator indicates an error. The number of blinks indicates the type of problem (for example, 2 blinks means the printer is out of ink, 3 blinks means a paper jam or a cover is open). You can find the number of blinks in the manual or on the official support website.