Modern multifunctional devices eliminate tangled wires, providing easy access to printing from any device in the home. Canon PIXMA MG3640S is a prominent example of a budget-friendly device that combines a scanner, copier, and printer with wireless connectivity. However, initial network setup often presents difficulties for users unfamiliar with the nuances of interaction. communication protocols and drivers.
Unlike more expensive models, this MFP lacks a full color display, requiring specific button combinations to activate network search mode. You'll need to closely monitor the power indicator and Wi-Fi button to properly sync the device with your router. We'll cover all available methods, including automatic setup via WPS and manual parameter entry, to help you choose the most convenient option.
Correct network configuration allows access to the function Cloud Link, which allows you to manage printing remotely via the internet. This is especially important for those who are used to working from mobile devices or tablets. It's important to follow the setup sequence, as a failure at any stage can result in the computer simply not seeing the printer in the list of available devices.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
Before you start manipulating the software, you must ensure that the equipment is physically ready. Wireless router The printer must be turned on and broadcasting a signal, and the printer itself must be filled with ink and ready to use. Make sure you know the password for your Wi-Fi network, as in most cases you'll have to enter it manually or confirm the connection.
It is important to take into account that the model MG3640S supports only the standard 2.4 GHzIf your router broadcasts two networks with the same name (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), conflicts may occur during automatic connections. In this case, we recommend temporarily separating the network names (SSIDs) in the router settings or disabling the 5 GHz band while setting up the printer.
⚠️ Caution: Make sure there are no thick concrete walls or strong sources of electromagnetic interference, such as microwave ovens, between the printer and the router during the setup procedure.
It's also worth checking whether the Wi-Fi module is enabled on the device itself. In the control panel Canon The button with the antenna icon is responsible for this. If the indicator next to it isn't lit or flashing, the wireless module may be disabled by software or a factory reset of the network settings is required, which we'll discuss in the following sections.
Automatic configuration via WPS
The easiest and fastest way to establish communication between devices is technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method allows you to automatically transfer the network password, eliminating the need to enter it on the keyboard or in the program interface. First, make sure your router supports this feature and has it enabled (usually a dedicated button on the router or an option in the web interface).
Press and hold the button Wi-Fi on the printer control panel until the power light starts flashing. Then quickly press the button Black (black) or Color (colored), after which the Wi-Fi indicator should light up. Within two minutes, press the WPS button on your router. If the connection is successful, the wireless indicator on the printer will stop blinking and remain solid.
☑️ Checklist for connecting via WPS
In some cases, automatic setup may fail the first time due to a connection timeout. If the Wi-Fi indicator continues to blink or remains orange, repeat the procedure, ensuring that the time interval between button presses on the printer and router is minimal. This method is ideal for users who don't want to install additional software on their computer.
Manual driver installation and network configuration
If the automatic mode doesn't work or you prefer full control over the process, use the official installation disc or download the drivers from the manufacturer's website. When you launch the installation wizard Canon My Printer Select the "Wireless LAN Connection" option. The program will automatically search for available networks and prompt you to select yours.
During the installation process, you will be asked to connect the printer to your computer via USB cableThis is necessary for the initial transfer of network settings. After the program receives your Wi-Fi network information (SSID and password), it will transfer them to the printer, after which the cable can be disconnected. Follow the on-screen instructions, carefully selecting the connection type.
| Parameter | Description | Where to find |
|---|---|---|
| SSID (Network Name) | The name of your wireless network | On the router sticker or in the list of networks |
| Security key | Wi-Fi access password | On the router sticker or in the provider's contract |
| IP address | The device's address on the local network | Automatically (DHCP) or in the router settings |
| Encryption type | Data Protection Protocol | Typically WPA2-PSK (AES) |
Once the driver installation is complete, the system will prompt you to print a test page. This is a critical step to ensure that data transfer protocol works correctly and the computer “sees” the device over the network, and not through a virtual USB port.
What should I do if my computer doesn't see my printer after installation?
If the installation wizard is complete but the printer is showing as "Offline," check your Windows services. Make sure the Print Spooler service is running. Also, try temporarily disabling your antivirus or firewall, as they may be blocking network device detection. In rare cases, reconnecting the USB cable and selecting "Change connection" in the driver menu may help.
Setting up printing from smartphones and tablets
For mobile device owners, the company Canon developed an application Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHYIt's available for iOS and Android platforms and allows you to print photos and documents directly from your phone. Before setting up, make sure your smartphone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network you plan to connect the printer to.
Launch the app and follow the instructions to add a new printer. You'll need to press and hold the button Direct (or a combination Wi-Fi + Color(depending on the firmware version) on the printer to put it into setup mode. The app will find the device and prompt you to enter the router password if it hasn't already been saved.
⚠️ Please note: The app interface and menu item names may differ depending on the version of your smartphone's operating system and the update of the Canon PRINT app itself.
After successful pairing, you will be able to not only print, but also scan documents directly into your phone's memory. Function Easy-PhotoPrint The app allows you to edit photos before printing, applying filters and choosing the paper size. This turns the MFP into a fully-fledged photo center without the need for a computer.
Using Google Cloud Print and AirPrint technology
Devices of the series MG3640 support cloud technologies, which allows you to send documents for printing from anywhere in the world where there is an internet connection. To work with Google Cloud Print (or its modern equivalents, as support for classic GCP is being discontinued, being replaced by native OS solutions), you need to register the printer in your Google account through a browser on your PC.
Apple users will appreciate the technology support AirPrintIt doesn't require installing drivers or additional apps. All you need is for your iPhone or iPad and printer to be on the same Wi-Fi network. When you select the "Print" option in any iOS app, the system will automatically detect an available printer. Canon MG3640S.
To activate these features, the printer must have constant internet access. Check your proxy server settings if you're using a corporate network or have specific router settings. At home, a successful Wi-Fi connection is usually sufficient for cloud services to activate automatically.
Diagnosing and resolving connection problems
Even if you follow the instructions carefully, errors may occur. If the Wi-Fi indicator on the printer is blinking, it means the device is trying to connect but can't find the network or the password is incorrect. If the indicator is orange, there has been a connection error. In this case, we recommend resetting the network settings: press and hold the button. Stop (Stop) until the alarm indicator flashes 15 times, then release.
A common issue is changing or replacing the router password. In this case, the printer continues to try to connect to the old network. You will need to repeat the setup procedure as described in the section on manual installation or WPS. Also, make sure that filtering is not enabled on the router. MAC addresses, which can block new devices.
If your printer is visible on the network, but print jobs are stuck in the queue, try updating the device's IP address. Sometimes the router assigns a new address, but the computer searches for the printer using the old one. You can check the printer port in Windows' printer properties: it should match the current IP address, which can be found by printing a network connection report (a combination of buttons on the control panel).
How to print a network connection report?
To print a report containing the IP address and Wi-Fi status, turn off the printer. Press and hold the button Wi-Fi and, without releasing it, press the button Power (Nutrition). Without letting go Power, let go Wi-Fi and double-click the button Color (or Black). Then release all buttons. The printer will print a page with technical information.
Is it possible to connect a printer to a hidden network (SSID hidden)?
The MG3640S model has difficulty detecting hidden networks automatically. It's recommended to temporarily make the network visible in the router settings, configure the printer, and then hide the SSID again. However, in some cases, the printer may lose connection after this, so for hidden networks, manual configuration via USB cable using the exact network name is preferable.
What should I do if the orange alarm indicator is on?
The orange indicator can indicate various errors. If the Wi-Fi and alarm indicators are flashing simultaneously, there is a communication error. If only the alarm indicator is flashing, check that the scanner lid is closed, that the cartridges are installed, and that there are no paper jams. The number of times the alarm indicator flashes indicates the specific problem (deciphered in the user manual).
Does MG3640S support 5GHz?
No, the Canon MG3640S's Wi-Fi module operates exclusively in the 2.4 GHz band. If your router only provides 5 GHz, the printer will not be able to connect. You must enable support for the 802.11 b/g/n (2.4 GHz) standard in your router's settings.