Modern users rarely limit themselves to just a computer, and the need to print a document or photo directly from a mobile device arises more and more often. Canon printer to the smartphone based on Android Using a wireless Wi-Fi network solves the problem of data transfer without unnecessary cables and complex manipulations. This is not only convenient but also saves time, allowing you to manage printing from anywhere in your home or office.
The setup process may seem complicated at first glance, but modern technology has automated most of the steps. You don't need to be an IT specialist to establish communication between your gadget and your printer. The key is to understand the basic operating principles. wireless network and follow the sequence of actions described in this manual.
In this article, we'll cover all current connection methods, including using the proprietary app and direct setup through the device menu. You'll learn about the nuances of using the router, the specifics of security protocols, and how to troubleshoot common errors. For a successful connection, it is critical that both devices are on the same local network or using a Wi-Fi Direct connection.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
Before proceeding with software configuration, you need to make sure that the equipment is physically ready for operation. Make sure that your Canon Supports wireless connectivity, as indicated by the corresponding icon on the control panel or in the model specifications. Also, check that the router is transmitting a signal and that the smartphone is within a strong reception area.
Please pay attention to your phone's operating system version. For proper operation of modern drivers and applications, it is recommended to use Android Version 8.0 and above. Older versions may not support some encryption protocols, which will result in the printer not being discoverable on the network.
⚠️ Attention: If you're using a guest Wi-Fi network on your router, devices may be isolated from each other. To print, you'll need to switch to the main network, which allows data exchange between clients.
An important step is to check the cartridges and paper supply. The device will not enter standby mode if the error indicator is lit or the toner is low. Make sure the printer is turned on and ready to print.
- 📱 Make sure that Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled on your smartphone (for initial detection).
- 📶 Check that your router is operating at 2.4 GHz, as many printer models cannot see 5 GHz networks.
- 🔋 Charge your phone's battery to at least 20% to prevent it from sleeping during setup.
Keep in mind that some corporate networks have strict security rules that block connections from unknown devices. In such cases, it's best to use your home network or the "home" mode. Wi-Fi Direct.
Using the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app
The most reliable and functional way to manage printing is to use the official software from the manufacturer. Application Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY Available in the Google Play Market, it provides full access to all device settings. Download and install it on your smartphone before beginning the procedure.
After launching the app, it will automatically prompt you to add a new printer. The system will scan for available devices on the network. If your printer is already connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your phone, it will appear in the list of available printers for registration.
If the automatic search doesn't yield any results, select the manual addition option. You'll need to enter your wireless network password to transmit it to the printer. The app will act as an intermediary, encrypting the data and sending it to the printer.
- 🖨️ Click the "Add Printer" button in the app's main menu.
- 🔍 Select your model from the list or let the system find it automatically.
- 🔑 Enter the password for the Wi-Fi network to which you want to connect the printer.
During setup, the app may request permission to access geolocation. This is necessary for Wi-Fi network scanning to work correctly on newer versions of Android. Without this permission, the device search may not start.
☑️ Check before connection
Setting up via the WPS button on the router
Many modern Canon routers and printers support the technology. WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup), which allows you to connect devices without entering a password. This method significantly simplifies the process, reducing it to pressing physical buttons. However, both devices must support this feature.
First, locate the WPS button on your router. It may be separate or combined with the reset button. You'll also need to activate connection standby mode on your printer, which is usually done through the wireless menu or with a button combination.
Press and hold the Wi-Fi button on the printer until the power light flashes, then select the WPS icon on the screen or press the connect button.After activating the printer's Wi-Fi mode, press the WPS button on the router within two minutes. The lights on both devices will begin flashing, indicating the connection is being established. Once the connection is established, the Wi-Fi light on the printer will turn solid.
⚠️ Attention: The WPS method may not work if the router has this feature disabled in the security settings or if it uses complex encryption that is not supported by the WPS protocol.
What to do if WPS doesn't work?
If the connection fails on the first try, wait a minute and repeat the procedure. Sometimes you may need to reboot your router. Also, check that the printer isn't too far from the signal source.
The advantage of this method is that you don't have to manually enter long, complex passwords. This is especially convenient if you've forgotten your network's current security key or it contains many special characters.
Manually setting up a wireless network through the printer menu
If automatic methods aren't suitable, you can configure the network manually using the device's built-in menu. This method requires careful attention, as you'll need to manually select your network from the list and enter the password using the printer's navigation buttons.
Go to your device's settings menu, usually marked with a gear or wrench icon. Find the section for LAN or wireless settings. Select "WLAN Setup" or "Wireless LAN Setup."
| Action | Description | Indicator |
|---|---|---|
| Network selection | Search for available SSIDs | Flashing blue |
| Entering a password | Using navigation buttons | The orange light is on |
| Connection | Establishing a connection | Flashing quickly |
| Success | Network found and active | The blue light is on |
Use the navigation arrows to select your network name (SSID). Note that network names are case-sensitive. After selecting a network, the system will ask you to enter a password. This can be a tedious process if the password is long, but it ensures accuracy.
After successfully entering the data, the printer will attempt to connect to the router. If the password is correct and the signal strength is sufficient, the device will receive an IP address and be ready to print. A connection report may appear on the screen, which can be printed for verification.
Direct connection via Wi-Fi Direct
Technology Wi-Fi Direct Allows you to connect your smartphone directly to the printer without using an intermediate router. This is ideal for situations where you need to quickly print a document while visiting someone or at the office, where you don't have access to the main network.
To activate this mode, enable Wi-Fi Direct in the printer menu. You'll see the network name (SSID) broadcast by the printer and the connection password on the device's screen or on the printed network configuration report.
On your smartphone, go to Wi-Fi settings, find the network with your printer's name (often containing "Canon" or the device model), and connect to it by entering the password. Your phone and printer will now form a direct local network.
In this mode, data transfer speeds may be lower than through a router, and the range is limited to a few meters. However, the lack of dependence on external infrastructure makes this method extremely reliable in the field.
- 🔗 Open the Wi-Fi menu on your printer and select "Wi-Fi Direct".
- 📲 On your phone, find the printer's network in the list of available connections.
•🔐 Enter the password displayed on the MFP screen.
Troubleshooting common connection issues
Even if you strictly follow the instructions, technical difficulties may arise. Often, the problem lies in incompatible encryption standards or a temporary glitch in the network module. The first step should always be to reboot all components involved: the router, printer, and smartphone.
If the printer isn't detecting the network, check to see if the SSID is hidden. Hidden networks require manual network name entry; automatic network searches won't detect them. Also, make sure MAC address filtering isn't enabled on your router, as this could block new devices.
⚠️ Attention: Menu interfaces and item names may vary depending on your device model and firmware version. Always consult the official documentation for your specific Canon series.
Another common cause of problems is using a static IP address, which may conflict with the printer's address. It is recommended to set the printer's network card to obtain an IP address automatically (DHCP).
In some cases, resetting the printer's network settings to factory defaults can help. This will clear all saved network profiles and allow you to start setup from scratch, eliminating any errors from previous configurations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to connect a Canon printer to Android without a router?
Yes, this is possible using Wi-Fi Direct technology. The printer creates its own wireless network, which your smartphone connects to. In this case, your phone's internet connection via Wi-Fi won't work, but printing is possible.
Why doesn't my phone see my printer in the Canon PRINT app?
Most likely, the devices are on different networks. Make sure the smartphone and printer are connected to the same router. Also, check the app permissions: access to the local network and geolocation should be allowed.
Do older Canon models support Wi-Fi connectivity?
Not all. Basic models may not have a built-in Wi-Fi module. In this case, you can purchase a separate Wi-Fi adapter if it's compatible with your model, or use a USB cable with an OTG adapter if your phone supports this feature.
How do I change my Wi-Fi network password if the printer has already been configured?
After changing the router password, the printer will lose its connection. You will need to re-configure the wireless network (via the app or the device menu) to transfer the new Wi-Fi password to the printer.