Modern printing devices have long ceased to be just peripherals requiring a mandatory wired connection to a computer. Model Canon PIXMA MG3640S The MFP is a prime example of a versatile multifunction printer that offers users fast printing and scanning without the hassle of cables. Connecting this device to a home network opens up access to advanced features, including printing from smartphones and tablets, as well as cloud services. However, the initial setup process for the wireless interface often raises questions for users, especially if they've previously used only USB connectivity.
The main difficulty in organizing wireless communication lies in the correct choice of the pairing method, since the protocol Wi-Fi Requires precise adherence to a specific sequence of steps. Unlike a wired connection, where the signal is physically transmitted, here you need to synchronize IP addresses and ensure that the router "sees" the printer. In this article, we'll cover all the available methods for activating wireless mode on MG3640S, from automatic setup via the WPS button to manually entering network parameters. You'll learn how to diagnose connection issues and understand how the device's indicator panel works.
Before you begin setup, make sure your router is working properly and is transmitting a signal, and that the MFP itself is loaded with cartridges and ready to use. The key point is that the computer or smartphone from which you plan to manage printing must be on the same network to which you connect the printer. If you're using a guest Wi-Fi network or the 5 GHz band (though this model only operates in 2.4 GHz), visibility conflicts may occur. Let's take a closer look at the preparation phase and basic setup methods.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
The first step before starting the setup is to physically prepare the device. You need to turn it on Canon MG3640S Plug the scanner into a power outlet and wait for the self-test to complete. The indicators on the front panel should stop flashing and remain solid, indicating the scanner is in standby mode. It's important to ensure the paper tray is open and the scanner lid is securely closed, as some models may prevent network modules from starting if the casing is open.
Next, you need to make sure your network infrastructure is compatible. Does the printer support the standard? IEEE 802.11 b/g/n, which means it operates exclusively in the 2.4 GHz frequency range. If your router broadcasts networks with the same name (SSID) for both the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands, your device may attempt to connect to the wrong channel or fail to see the network at all. In such cases, it's recommended to temporarily separate the network names in your router settings or force your smartphone to use the 2.4 GHz frequency.
⚠️ Attention: Make sure MAC address filtering is not enabled on your router. If "Whitelist" mode is enabled, you'll need to find out the printer's MAC address (printed on the back of the printer or on a test page) and add it to the router's security settings.
It's also a good idea to know your Wi-Fi network password in advance. In most cases, it's required for manual setup if the automatic method fails. The password is case-sensitive, so carefully check your uppercase and lowercase letters. If you use complex characters, make sure the keyboard on your control device (smartphone or PC) is set to English to avoid typing errors.
Quick setup method via WPS button
The easiest and fastest way to connect Canon PIXMA MG3640S to the network is the use of technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)This method allows you to establish a secure connection without having to manually enter a long network password. For this method to work, your router must also support WPS, which is true for the vast majority of modern router models.
The connection process is as follows. On the front panel of the printer, locate the button with the image of a smartphone or wireless network. Press and hold it until the power light starts flashing, then release. Immediately after, press the WPS button on your router. This is usually located on the back panel and may require a short press or a 2-3 second hold, depending on the router model.
☑️ WPS Readiness Check
Once pairing mode is activated, the wireless network indicator on the printer should begin blinking, indicating that it is searching for and establishing a connection. Once the connection is established, the Wi-Fi indicator will turn solid blue (or green, depending on the model). This means IP address The device has been successfully received from the router's DHCP server, and is ready to connect to the network. If the blinking stops and only the power indicator remains lit, the connection has not been established, and the procedure should be repeated moving closer to the router.
Manual wireless network setup from the control panel
If your router does not support WPS or you prefer to enter parameters manually, Canon MG3640S Allows you to configure your network using a series of button presses. This method is more secure in complex network configurations where the SSID is hidden or specific encryption types are used. First, you need to put the printer into wireless network setup mode.
Press the wireless button on the control panel. The indicator light will start flashing. Then press the button Black (Black) or Color (Color) to start printing the network setup report or enter network selection mode. In some firmware versions, you must press the wireless button, then press the phone button and the color button in sequence to activate network search mode.
Once the search mode is activated, the printer will begin scanning the airwaves. A list of available networks will be printed or displayed via blinking indicators (models without a display often print a list of available networks or use blinking coding, but the MG3640S typically prints a report or uses an app to select them). However, the classic method for this series without a display involves using the button. Wireless in combination with the color or black and white print buttons to confirm the selection if there is only one network.
In more complex cases, where there are multiple networks, it's more convenient to install drivers software on your computer, where network selection occurs in a graphical interface. However, if you prefer to configure everything using buttons, make sure you know the exact name of your network (SSID). The printer will attempt to connect to the first available network with open access or a known profile.
Using the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app
The most modern and convenient way to set up, especially from mobile devices, is to use the official application Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHYThis method allows you to not only connect the printer to Wi-Fi but also immediately access the full functionality of printing photos and documents directly from your smartphone or tablet. The app is available for operating systems Android And iOS.
To get started, download and install the app from the official app store (Google Play or App Store). Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your smartphone, as modern versions of the app use Bluetooth Low Energy for initial printer detection. Launch the app and tap the "Add Printer" button (usually a "+" or "Add Printer" icon).
The app will prompt you to select a connection method. Select "Connect a printer to the network" or a similar option. Then follow the on-screen instructions: select your printer from the list of detected devices (e.g. Canon MG3600 series). The app will automatically transfer the Wi-Fi settings (network name and password) saved on your phone to the printer.
During the setup process, the app may ask you to temporarily switch to the printer's access point. This is normal: your smartphone will connect directly to the MFP, transfer your home network settings, and then return to normal operation. After a successful data transfer, the printer's Wi-Fi indicator will turn solid, confirming a successful connection.
Installing drivers and software on a PC
Once the printer is connected to the router, you need to configure your computer to work with it. Although modern operating systems, such as Windows 10/11 And macOS, often automatically detect network printers; for full functionality (scanning, maintenance, ink level monitoring), it is recommended to install the full driver package.
Go to the official Canon support site and find the download page for your model. MG3640SDownload the driver package, usually called "IJ Network Tool" or the "Full Driver & Software Package." When running the installer, select the "Wireless LAN connection" option.
The search program will find the printer on the network using its IP address. If the printer was successfully connected to Wi-Fi in the previous steps, it will appear in the list of available devices. Select it and complete the installation. After this, a virtual printer port will appear in the system, allowing you to print documents wirelessly.
| Parameter | Meaning / Description | Where to find |
|---|---|---|
| Device model | Canon PIXMA MG3640S | On the front panel |
| Connection type | Wireless LAN (802.11 b/g/n) | Specification |
| Frequency range | 2.4 GHz | Router settings |
| Security protocol | WPA2-PSK (AES) | Wi-Fi settings |
| Default port | 9100 (standard) | Windows port properties |
Diagnostics and solution
Even if you carefully follow the instructions, situations may arise where the printer fails to connect or loses connection. One common cause is incorrect encryption. Canon MG3640S may not support the latest WPA3 security standards, so it is recommended to set the router to mixed mode WPA2/WPA3 or purely WPA2-PSK (AES).
Another common issue is changing the printer's IP address. By default, the device receives a dynamic IP address. If the address changes, the computer may lose connection with the printer. For stable operation in an office environment, it is recommended to reserve an IP address for the printer's MAC address in the router's DHCP settings or set a static IP address using a utility. IJ Network Tool.
⚠️ Attention: If the wireless network indicator is blinking slowly, the printer is waiting for a connection. If it's blinking rapidly, data is being transmitted. If the indicator is steady, a connection has been established. If the indicator is off, the Wi-Fi module is disabled.
It's also worth checking the signal strength. Printers are often installed in alcoves or behind furniture, which shields the signal. If the signal strength is weak, print speeds may drop and connections may be lost. Try moving the device closer to the router or using a Wi-Fi repeater to boost the signal where the MFP is installed.
What to do if the printer "disappears" from the network?
If your printer suddenly stops responding, try rebooting your router. Often, the problem is caused by a frozen router's DHCP server, which is unable to assign a new address to the device. Resetting the printer's network settings also helps: hold down the wireless button until the power light flashes, then release it. This will restore the network settings to factory defaults.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Canon MG3640S be connected to a 5GHz network?
No, this printer model is equipped with a Wi-Fi module that operates exclusively in the 2.4 GHz band. To connect, ensure your router is broadcasting a 2.4 GHz network and that your computer or smartphone is also connected to this frequency during setup.
How to find the IP address of a printer on the network?
The easiest way is to print a network settings report. To do this, press the wireless button, then the "Black" or "Color" button (depending on your firmware version) to print a test page. The IP address will be listed in the LAN or Wireless LAN section.
The printer doesn't see my Wi-Fi network, what should I do?
Check if your network name (SSID) is hidden. If the network is hidden, the printer will not be able to detect it automatically. Also, make sure the distance to the router is not too great and there are no strong sources of interference, such as microwave ovens.
Do I need to connect a USB cable to set up Wi-Fi?
Not necessarily. You can set up a wireless connection completely wirelessly using the WPS button on your router or the Canon PRINT mobile app. A USB cable is only required if you're using the older method of installing drivers from a disc, which requires a temporary connection.