Modern wireless technologies allow you to forget about bulky cables and place office equipment in any convenient place in your apartment or office. Model Canon Pixma MG3640 While Wi-Fi is a popular home solution due to its functionality and affordability, initial wireless connection setup often presents challenges for users. It's important to understand that synchronizing the device with the router requires careful attention, but if you follow the steps, it only takes a few minutes. In this article, we'll cover all available Wi-Fi module activation methods in detail, including automatic and manual options.
Before proceeding with the software part, you need to make sure that your network equipment is working properly. Wireless router The router must be turned on and broadcasting a signal, and the computer or smartphone you plan to use for setup must be within a strong reception area. Don't ignore these basic requirements, as an unstable signal during the configuration process can lead to driver installation errors. Also, make sure you know the password for your Wi-Fi network, as you'll need it to enter the data manually.
Many users experience problems with their printer not seeing the network or losing connection after rebooting. This is often due to the frequency range: this model supports the standard 802.11 b/g/n, which means it operates exclusively in the 2.4 GHz band. If your router only broadcasts in the 5 GHz band or uses complex corporate encryption protocols, a direct connection may fail. We'll explore these nuances and offer solutions for various use cases.
Preparing for wireless connection
The first step before starting setup is to properly prepare the equipment. Remove all shipping tape and plugs from the device's body if it's fresh out of the box. Install the ink cartridges and load paper into the tray, as many models Canon Perform a test configuration printout immediately after completing the network setup. Make sure the power indicator is solid, indicating readiness.
The second important step is checking your router's compatibility. While most home routers support the necessary standards, in some cases it may be necessary to temporarily disable MAC address filtering or guest network mode. Address filtering may block new devices from obtaining an IP address from the DHCP server. If you have complex security settings, it's recommended to simplify them during setup.
⚠️ Important: Make sure your router is broadcasting in the 2.4 GHz band. MG series printers often don't support the 5 GHz frequency, and if your router combines both bands under the same name, conflicts may occur. In this case, separate the networks in your router settings.
For successful installation, you will also need access to a computer running Windows or macOS, or a mobile device. Download the full driver package from the manufacturer's official website in advance, or have the installation disc ready if included. Internet connection The system on your computer must be stable, as the installer will download additional components during operation.
Connection method via WPS (automatic)
The easiest way to connect Canon Pixma MG3640 Using WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) technology to connect to the network. This method transfers security settings automatically, eliminating the need to manually enter the password, thus eliminating typos. For this method to work, your router must also support WPS, which is required for the vast majority of modern models.
The process begins by activating the printer's sleep mode. Press the button Wireless on the control panel and hold it until the power indicator starts blinking. Then press the WPS button on your router (usually marked with a corresponding icon or text). Then, within two minutes, press the "Black and White" or "Color" copy button on the MFP to initiate a network search.
- 🔘 Press and hold the button
Wirelesson the printer until the indicator blinks. - 🔘 Within 2 minutes, press the WPS button on your router.
- 🔘 Wait until the wireless network indicator stops blinking and turns solid.
- 🔘 Print a network connection report to check the status.
If the connection is successful, the wireless indicator on the front panel of the device will be solid. If the indicator continues to blink or goes out, try repeating the process while moving closer to the router. Sometimes it may take several attempts to sync. handshake protocols between devices.
Manual setup via the Wireless button
If the automatic WPS method is unavailable or doesn't work, you'll need to perform manual configuration. This method requires your direct involvement in selecting the network and entering the password, but it's the most versatile and reliable. To get started, press the button Wireless on the printer panel; the power indicator should blink.
Next, click the button Direct (direct connection) or the network selection button to put the device into search mode for available access points. The printer will begin scanning the air, and once your network is detected, the LEDs will begin flashing in a specific pattern. You'll be asked to confirm your network selection, usually by pressing the button again. Wireless or color copy buttons, depending on the firmware version.
At this stage, it is crucial to enter the correct Wi-Fi password. Since the model MG3640 There's no full-fledged display; input is done via key combinations or via a connected computer during driver installation. If you're setting up the network for the first time, it's most convenient to use the installation disc or downloaded driver file, which will prompt you for input.
☑️ Manual setup checklist
After entering the data, the device will attempt to connect. If the password is entered correctly, the network indicator will turn blue. Otherwise, the light mistakes The indicator may turn orange, requiring you to repeat the process. Make sure you're using the correct keyboard layout when entering your password on your computer during setup.
Using the installation disk and drivers
The most complete setup method, guaranteed to install all necessary components, is to use the original software. Even if you don't have a physical disk, you can download the latest version of the drivers for Canon MG3640 From the official support website. Run the executable file and follow the installation wizard's instructions.
During installation, the program will prompt you to select a connection type. Select "Wireless LAN connection." Next, the wizard will ask you to select a setup method: automatic or manual. If you select automatic mode, the program will automatically find the printer on the network if it has already been activated using the Wireless button.
| Installation stage | User action | Expected result |
|---|---|---|
| Launching the installer | Running the setup.exe file | Opening the language and model selection menu |
| Selecting a connection | Clicking "Wireless LAN" | Go to device search |
| Search for a device | Waiting (1-2 minutes) | Finding a printer on the network |
| Data entry | Confirming network settings | Transferring SSID and password parameters |
| Conclusion | Clicking "Exit" | Driver installation is complete |
If the program cannot find the printer, it will offer to temporarily connect the device via USB cable for the initial transfer of network settings. hybrid method, which often comes in handy when dealing with complex router configurations. After transferring the Wi-Fi settings, the cable can be disconnected, and the printer will continue to operate over the network.
⚠️ Warning: When installing drivers, your antivirus or Windows Firewall may block the connection. We recommend temporarily disabling protection or allowing network access during the installation.
Setup via the Canon PRINT mobile app
For smartphone and tablet users, Canon has developed a convenient application Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHYIt allows you to not only print photos and documents directly from your phone, but also set up the printer for Wi-Fi network use. This is especially convenient if you don't have a computer with a disc drive nearby.
Launch the app and add a new device. Follow the on-screen instructions: the app will ask you to press a button. Direct on the printer, after which the phone will connect to the printer's direct access point. Through this connection, the app will transmit data about your home Wi-Fi router. This method is called Smartphone direct connection.
- 📱 Download the Canon PRINT app from the AppStore or Google Play.
- 📱 Click the button
Directon the printer (the indicator will flash). - 📱 In the app, select "Register Printer".
- 📱 Select your home Wi-Fi network from the list and enter the password.
The advantage of the mobile method is its visual simplicity and the ability to immediately check the result by sending a test photo to print. However, it's important to note that for the initial setup, the phone must support network settings transfer, which is required for most modern Android and iOS operating systems.
What to do if the phone doesn’t see the printer?
Make sure location and Bluetooth are enabled on your phone, as modern OS versions require these permissions to search for devices on the local network. Also, check if your phone is in "Data Saver" mode, which can block local connections.
Troubleshooting and diagnostics
Even if you carefully follow the instructions, situations may arise where the printer refuses to connect. One of the common problems is incorrect encryption typeIf your router uses the WPA3 standard, the old Wi-Fi module in your printer may not support it. Try setting your router's settings to mixed WPA2/WPA3 mode or temporarily set it to WPA2-only.
Another common error is a hidden SSID (network name). If your network is hidden, the printer won't be able to find it automatically. You'll have to manually enter the network name, taking into account case-insensitive letters, which is extremely difficult on a device without a display. In such cases, it's recommended to temporarily make the network visible, configure the settings, and then hide it again, although the printer may lose connection after doing so.
If the error indicator flashes a certain number of times (e.g., 17 times), this may indicate an IP address conflict or a faulty module. Try resetting the printer's network settings to factory defaults. To do this, hold down the button Wireless until the power indicator flashes, then release and immediately press the reset button (if provided) or unplug the device from the outlet for 10 seconds.
⚠️ Note: Router interfaces and printer firmware versions are subject to update. If standard methods don't work, check your router's documentation or the Canon support website for current network security requirements.
It's also important to check whether the router's limit of connected devices has been reached. This is rare in small home networks, but in offices with numerous devices, the DHCP address pool can run out. In this case, the printer simply won't receive an IP address. The solution is to expand the address range in the router settings or reserve a static IP address for the printer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Canon MG3640 be connected to a 5GHz network?
No, the model does not include a wireless module. MG3640 Only supports the 802.11 b/g/n standard, which operates in the 2.4 GHz band. To connect, your router must broadcast in this band. If you have a dual-band router, make sure the 2.4 GHz network is active and has a separate name (SSID) or priority.
My printer stopped printing over Wi-Fi after replacing my router. What should I do?
When you change your router, the network name and password change, causing the printer to lose connection. You'll need to reconfigure the wireless connection. The easiest way to do this is through the installation disc or the driver software on your computer, selecting "Change connection" or "Reconfigure wireless network."
How to print a network connection report?
To print the report, click the button Wireless Press and hold the Power button on the control panel until the power light flashes once. Then press the Black & White Copy button. The printer will print a receipt with technical information, including the IP address, MAC address, and connection status.
Why doesn't the computer see the printer on the network, even though the Wi-Fi is on?
It's possible that your computer and printer are on different subnets (for example, guest mode is enabled on your router) or a firewall is blocking discovery. Make sure both devices are connected to the same primary network. You can also try adding the printer manually by IP address through the Devices and Printers menu in Windows.