Wireless printing has long ceased to be a luxury and has become a standard for home and office use. Model Canon PIXMA MG3640 The MFP is one of the most popular multifunctional devices, allowing you to scan, copy, and print documents without the hassle of wires. However, initial connection setup often raises questions for users integrating the MFP into their home network for the first time. It's important to understand that installing drivers and configuring the network requires a consistent approach to avoid errors.
In this article, we'll take a detailed look at how to establish a stable connection between your router and printer using standard Windows operating system tools. Correct setting This initial setup will save you from many future problems, such as lost data packets or the inability to find the device on the network. We'll cover both automatic installation methods and manual configuration via the printer's menu.
Before beginning the procedure, make sure your router is turned on and providing internet access, and your printer has cartridges. Running out of ink or paper can cause the device to enter standby mode and fail to complete the network identification process. Also, have your Wi-Fi network information (SSID) and password ready, as they will be needed for authentication.
Equipment preparation and requirements verification
The first step in the setup process is to physically prepare the device for wireless operation. Canon MG3640 The MFP doesn't have a built-in screen for entering passwords, so all communication occurs through the indicators and buttons on the control panel. Make sure the MFP is plugged in and within range of your router's signal. If the device is located too far away or behind thick concrete walls, print speed may be unstable and the connection may be interrupted.
To successfully install the drivers, you will need a computer or laptop running Windows operating system connected to the same Wi-Fi network to which you plan to connect the printer. Cable connection (USB) is not required at this stage, as we are configuring wireless mode. However, if automatic installation fails, having a USB cable on hand can be a backup option for forced setup.
- 🔌 Make sure the power light on your printer is solid and not blinking.
- 📶 Make sure your computer is connected to a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network (many older printer models do not see 5 GHz networks).
- 🔑 Write down your Wi-Fi password in advance so you don't have to look for it during setup.
- 📄 Check that you have enough free space on your computer's hard drive to install the software.
Particular attention should be paid to the operating system version. Canon MG3640 Drivers for Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11 are up-to-date. If you're using older OS versions, searching for compatible software on third-party resources may take additional time. It's also important to disable any third-party antivirus or firewall software on your computer during installation, as they may block the search for network devices.
⚠️ Attention: If your router supports "Guest Network" mode, don't try to connect the printer to it. Devices on a guest network are often isolated from each other, and the computer simply won't see the MFP for printing.
Method 1: Automatic installation via the official website
The most reliable and modern way of connection Canon PIXMA MG3640 The best way to install a driver is to use the official installer from the manufacturer's website. This method ensures you get the latest driver version optimized for current Windows versions. Older discs that come with the product often contain outdated software that may not work correctly with new security updates.
The process begins with going to the official Canon support website. You need to find the driver download page for your model. In the search field, enter MG3640 and select your model from the list. The system will automatically detect your operating system, but it's best to double-check it manually in the drop-down menu to avoid compatibility errors.
After downloading the loader file (usually it has a name like win-mg3600-1_10-ea24.exe or similar), run it as administrator.istratorThe program will prompt you to accept the license agreement. After that, the download of the necessary components will begin. Unlike older methods, the modern installer will automatically find the printer on the network if it's in setup mode.
☑️ Automatic installation checklist
When the installer asks you to select a connection method, select "Wireless LAN connection." The program will offer several options: a cable connection (for initial network setup) or a direct wireless connection. Choose the cable-free option if your router supports WPS or if the program prompts you to transfer Wi-Fi settings from your computer to the printer. In the latter case, simply click "Next" and follow the on-screen instructions.
| Installation stage | User action | Expected result |
|---|---|---|
| Launching the installer | Double-click on the file to confirm administrator rights. | Opening the installation preparation window |
| Select region | Confirmation of country of residence | Loading a list of available drivers |
| License | Acceptance of the terms of use (check "Yes") | Go to the connection type selection |
| Connection type | Select "Wireless LAN" | Start searching for a device on the network |
| Conclusion | Clicking the "Exit" button | The printer is ready to print. |
If the automatic search was successful, you'll see a message confirming installation is complete. Your computer will create a print queue, and the device will appear in the "Devices and Printers" list. You can now print a test page to ensure the connection is working properly.
Method 2: Setting up via the WPS button on the router
The WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) method is the fastest way to connect Canon MG3640 If your router supports this feature, you can connect to the network. This eliminates the need to manually enter a password, which is especially convenient if the password is complex and contains many characters. WPS technology creates a secure connection between devices with the press of a button.
First, locate the WPS button on your router. It may be a physical button or a software button in the router's interface. On the printer's control panel Canon MG3640 Find the button with a smartphone image or a wireless network icon. Press and hold this button for a few seconds until the power or Wi-Fi indicator starts flashing. This puts the printer into connection standby mode.
Within two minutes of activating the printer's WPS mode, press the WPS button on the router. The lights on both devices should begin to flash more rapidly, indicating the encryption key exchange process. Once the connection is established, the Wi-Fi light on the printer will turn on. Canon MG3640 will light up steadily and the power indicator will stop flashing.
What to do if the WPS button does not work?
If the router doesn't respond to pressing the button, the feature may be disabled in its settings. Log into the router's web interface (usually at 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1) and navigate to Wireless -> WPS. Make sure the feature status is "Enable" or "Active." WPS may also not work if the router's encryption type is set to WEP (use WPA2-PSK).
This method is ideal for situations where you don't have a computer with drivers available, but you need to quickly add a printer to the network and then connect it from a phone or tablet. However, it's important to remember that the WPS protocol is considered less secure than manually entering a complex password, so its use may be limited in corporate networks with high security requirements.
⚠️ Attention: If the Wi-Fi indicator on your printer is blinking slowly, it means the device can't find the network or the password is incorrect. Faster blinking usually indicates data transfer. Do not turn off the router while the indicators are blinking.
Manual network setup via the printer menu
If automatic methods fail, you can use manual settings directly via the buttons on the MFP body. This method requires careful attention, as character entry is accomplished by repeatedly pressing the "Black" or "Color" start button, and navigation is accomplished using the arrow keys.
To enter the setup mode, press and hold the button Wireless (or the button with the phone icon) until the power indicator flashes once, then release. Immediately press the button Black (Black start) or Color (Color start). After that, press the button Wireless Once again. The power indicator should be solid and the Wi-Fi indicator should be blinking. This means the printer has entered Direct Setup mode.
Next, run the driver installer on your computer and select "Wireless Network Connection" -> "Other Options." When prompted, select "Direct Wireless Connection" or "USB Setup" (if you need a temporary cable to transfer Wi-Fi settings). During installation, you'll be prompted to select your network from a list of available ones. Find your SSID and enter the password.
- 📶 Make sure you select a network with the correct frequency band (2.4 GHz).
- 🔣 When entering your password, pay close attention to the letter case (upper and lower case letters are different).
- 🔄 If the network is hidden, select the "Enter network name manually" option and enter the SSID exactly as it is in the router settings.
After transferring the settings, the printer will attempt to connect to the router. A successful connection will be confirmed by a steady glow of the wireless network indicator. If the indicator continues to blink, check the correct password and signal strength. Sometimes you may need to repeat this process 2-3 times for the device to successfully connect to the router.
Installing drivers and software
Once the physical connection is established, you need to install software that allows the computer to "understand" the printer's commands. The driver is the translator between the operating system and the device. Without it, printing is impossible, even if the printer's indicators are green.
It is recommended to use the full driver package. IJ Network Device Setup Utility, which comes with the main installer. It not only installs the print driver but also utilities for scanning, monitoring ink levels, and configuring network settings. During installation, select "Full Installation" or "Custom" to add additional components, such as photo plugins.
During installation, the system may ask for permission to install devices. Be sure to agree to this. If Windows offers to find the driver automatically through the Update Center, you can agree, but the version from the Canon website is usually more functional. After installation, a computer restart is not always necessary, but it is recommended for proper registration of print services.
Check the installation by going to the printers control panel. Find Canon MG3600 series, right-click and select "Printer Properties." On the "General" tab, click "Test Print." If the page prints clearly and without distortion, then the drivers are installed correctly.
⚠️ Attention: Operating system interfaces and driver versions are subject to update. If the menu items described differ, please check the latest documentation on the manufacturer's official website or in the "Help" section of the installer.
Solving common connection problems
Even if you follow all the instructions, technical difficulties may arise. One common problem is that the computer doesn't see the printer on the network. In this case, first check whether the devices are on the same subnet. For example, if the computer is connected to a guest Wi-Fi network and the printer is connected to the main Wi-Fi network, they won't see each other.
Another common mistake is the wrong encryption type. Canon MG3640 It may not support the latest WPA3 security standards being implemented in new routers. In this case, you'll need to access the router settings and temporarily switch the security mode to WPA2-PSK (AES) for successful pairing.
Problems can also be caused by a static IP address. If your network isn't configured for DHCP (automatic address assignment), the printer may be assigned an address that conflicts with another device or an address from a different subnet. In this case, resetting the printer's network settings (holding the Wi-Fi button until the indicator light blinks) and reconfiguring it can help.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Canon MG3640 be connected to 5GHz Wi-Fi?
No, model Canon MG3640 Only supports the 802.11 b/g/n standard, which operates in the 2.4 GHz band. If your router broadcasts networks with the same name for both bands, try separating them in the router settings or force-switching the router to compatibility mode.
What should I do if the orange alarm indicator is on?
Orange indicator on Canon MG3640 This usually indicates an error: out of ink, paper jam, open cover, or missing cartridge. Check these parameters. If the mechanics are fine, try clearing the error by holding the Stop/Reset button (triangle in a circle) for 5-10 seconds.
How do I reset network settings on a printer?
To reset network settings, press and hold the button Wireless until the power indicator flashes once. Then press the button Black or Color. After that, click the button Wireless once again. The indicators should flash, confirming the reset.
Does printing from a phone (Android/iOS) work?
Yes, once the printer is connected to Wi-Fi, you can print from phones using the app. Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY or AirPrint technology (for Apple devices). Make sure your phone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as the printer.