HowToFixWiFiSimple fixes  •  Better connection
Wifi Guide

How to Change Canon Wifi Password? Printer Network Reset

Introduction Changing the WiFi password on a Canon printer is one of those tasks that seems simple until you are staring at a small LCD screen or a blinking light with no clear instructions. Whether you recently updated your router password, moved to a new hom

HowToFixWiFi

Introduction

Changing the WiFi password on a Canon printer is one of those tasks that seems simple until you are staring at a small LCD screen or a blinking light with no clear instructions. Whether you recently updated your router password, moved to a new home, or simply want to improve network security, knowing How to Change Canon Wifi Password? is essential for keeping your printer connected and functional.

Canon printers support wireless connectivity across many models, from compact home inkjets to office-grade all-in-one devices. When your WiFi credentials change, the printer loses its connection to the network. Print jobs fail, scanning to email stops working, and mobile printing apps can no longer find the device. In most cases, you do not need to replace the printer or call a technician. You only need the right method for your specific Canon model and a few minutes of focused time.

This guide walks you through every practical way to update WiFi credentials on a Canon printer. It covers control panel navigation, the Canon PRINT app, network utility software, WPS setup, and full network reset procedures. You will also learn how to reconnect computers and mobile devices after the change, how to troubleshoot common errors, and how to secure your printer on a wireless network. By the end, you will be able to handle How to Change Canon Wifi Password? confidently, regardless of which Canon printer you own.

Table of Contents

Understanding Canon Printer WiFi Security

Canon printers connect to a local wireless network just like a laptop, smartphone, or tablet. They use WiFi Protected Access (WPA or WPA2) encryption to secure the data traveling between the printer and your router. The WiFi password you enter during setup is the same password used by your router to authenticate devices on the network.

When you change your router password, every wireless device must be updated with the new credentials. Canon printers do not automatically detect router password changes. If the printer still holds the old password, it will be rejected by the router and marked as offline. This is why learning How to Change Canon Wifi Password? is not just about convenience; it is about maintaining secure, authorized access to your network hardware.

Most Canon printers store network settings in internal memory. These settings include the SSID (network name), security type, and password. Updating them requires accessing the printer’s network configuration menu, either directly on the device or through companion software on a computer or mobile device.

Why You Might Need to Change Your Canon WiFi Password

There are several common scenarios that make a Canon printer WiFi password change necessary:

  • Router password update: You changed your WiFi password for security reasons and now the printer cannot connect.
  • New router or ISP: You replaced your internet router, which generated a new network name and password.
  • Security concern: You suspect an unauthorized device is using your network, and you want to kick all devices off and reconnect only trusted ones.
  • Printer moved to a new location: The printer is now on a different network with different credentials.
  • Forgotten credentials: You no longer remember the current WiFi password stored on the printer and need to reset it.

In each case, the goal is the same: align the printer’s stored wireless credentials with the active network so print, scan, and copy functions work over WiFi again.

Before You Begin: Preparation Checklist

Before you attempt How to Change Canon Wifi Password?, gather the following items. Preparation prevents frustration and reduces the chance of getting stuck midway through the process.

Gather Printer Model Information

Canon uses different interfaces across its product lines. A PIXMA TS series printer with a touchscreen behaves differently than a PIXMA MG series printer with only buttons. Locate the model number, usually found on a label on the back or bottom of the printer. Knowing the exact model helps you find model-specific instructions in the user manual or on Canon’s support website.

Connect to the Same Network

If you are using a computer or smartphone to change settings, make sure that device is connected to the same WiFi network you intend to configure on the printer. The printer and the controlling device must see each other on the local network for most software-based methods to work.

Have Admin Credentials Ready

Have your current WiFi network name (SSID) and password available. You will need to enter them during setup. If you are performing a full network reset, you will need to set up the connection from scratch, so keep the new password handy.

Method 1: Using the Printer Control Panel

Many Canon printers, especially newer PIXMA and MAXIFY models with LCD touchscreens, allow you to change WiFi settings directly on the device. This is often the fastest method when you are standing in front of the printer.

Step-by-Step for Touchscreen Models
  1. Power on the Canon printer and make sure it is in a ready state, not printing or scanning.
  2. Tap the Home or Menu button on the touchscreen.
  3. Select Settings, then choose Device Settings or LAN Settings, depending on your model.
  4. Tap Wireless LAN Setup or WiFi Setup.
  5. Choose Manual Setup or Other Setup if prompted.
  6. Select your network name (SSID) from the list of available networks.
  7. Enter the current WiFi password when prompted, then enter the new password if the printer supports direct password editing.
  8. Confirm the settings and wait for the printer to display a connected message.
  9. Print a network configuration page to verify the new connection details.

If the printer does not allow you to edit the password directly, you may need to remove the network and re-add it with the new credentials. Look for an option such as Delete Network, Forget Network, or Reset LAN Settings before re-running the wireless setup wizard.

Step-by-Step for Button-Only Models

Older Canon printers without touchscreens use a combination of physical buttons and LED indicator lights. The exact sequence varies by model, but the general process is:

  1. Press and hold the WiFi or Wireless button until the power lamp flashes.
  2. Press the Color or OK button to enter setup mode.
  3. Use the arrow buttons to navigate to Device Settings or LAN Settings.
  4. Select Wireless LAN Setup and choose Manual Setup.
  5. Select your SSID from the list.
  6. Enter the WiFi password using the on-screen character entry or by pressing buttons to cycle through letters and numbers.
  7. Confirm and wait for the WiFi lamp to stop flashing and remain lit.

Button-only entry can be slow, so take your time with uppercase and lowercase letters. WiFi passwords are case-sensitive.

Method 2: Using the Canon PRINT App

The Canon PRINT app is available for iOS and Android devices. It provides a user-friendly interface for managing Canon printers, including wireless setup. This method is ideal if your printer lacks a convenient touchscreen or if you prefer using a smartphone.

Setup and Connection
  1. Download and install the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app from the App Store or Google Play Store.
  2. Open the app and grant the requested permissions for local network access.
  3. Tap Add Printer or the plus icon.
  4. Select your Canon printer from the list of discovered devices.
  5. If prompted, choose WiFi Setup and follow the on-screen instructions.

Changing Network Settings via App

Once the printer is added, you can update network settings:

  1. Open the Canon PRINT app and select your printer.
  2. Tap Printer Settings or Device Settings.
  3. Look for Wireless LAN Settings, WiFi Settings, or Network Settings.
  4. Choose the option to change or reconfigure the WiFi connection.
  5. Select your network and enter the new password.
  6. Save the changes and wait for the app to confirm the printer is online.

If the app cannot find the printer after a password change, you may need to reset the printer’s network settings and add it again as a new device.

Method 3: Using IJ Network Tool or Canon Network Utility

Canon provides desktop software for more advanced network configuration. On Windows, this is often called IJ Network Tool or Canon IJ Network Printer Utility. On Mac, similar functionality is available through Canon IJ Network Tool or the printer’s built-in setup assistant.

Windows Instructions
  1. Download the latest Canon IJ Network Tool from the Canon support website for your printer model.
  2. Install the software and connect your computer to the same WiFi network as the printer.
  3. Launch IJ Network Tool and select your Canon printer from the detected device list.
  4. Choose Settings or Configuration.
  5. Navigate to the wireless or TCP/IP settings.
  6. Update the SSID and password fields with the new WiFi credentials.
  7. Apply the changes and restart the printer if prompted.

Mac Instructions
  1. Open the Canon IJ Network Tool or use the printer setup utility included with your Mac driver package.
  2. Select your Canon printer from the list.
  3. Click Configuration or Settings.
  4. Choose Wireless LAN or AirPort settings.
  5. Enter the new network name and password.
  6. Save the configuration and verify the printer status shows as online.

Desktop utilities are especially useful when managing multiple Canon printers in an office environment.

Method 4: WPS Push Button Method

WiFi Protected Setup (WPS) allows you to connect a printer to a router without typing a password. Instead, you press a physical button on the router and initiate WPS mode on the printer. This method does not technically change the stored password, but it re-establishes the connection using the router’s current credentials.

When to Use WPS

Use WPS if your router has a WPS button and you do not want to enter a long password manually. It is also helpful if you have just reset the router and want a quick reconnection. However, WPS is considered less secure than manual password entry, so disable it on your router after setup if you are concerned about network security.

Step-by-Step WPS Setup
  1. Place the Canon printer within range of the WiFi router.
  2. Press and hold the WiFi button on the printer until the alarm lamp flashes once or the WiFi lamp begins flashing.
  3. Within two minutes, press the WPS button on your wireless router.
  4. Wait for the printer’s WiFi lamp to stop flashing and remain steadily lit.
  5. Print a network status page to confirm the connection.

If the connection fails, repeat the process. Timing is critical because the WPS window on most routers lasts only about two minutes.

Performing a Full Network Reset on Canon Printers

Sometimes the printer’s network settings become corrupted, or you simply want to wipe all saved WiFi data and start fresh. A full network reset removes stored SSIDs, passwords, and IP configurations. After resetting, you must set up the wireless connection again from scratch.

Soft Reset vs Hard Reset

A soft reset typically involves turning the printer off and on again or selecting a restart option from the menu. It clears temporary memory but does not erase network settings. A hard network reset restores factory defaults for LAN and wireless settings. Use a hard reset only if you cannot connect through any other method.

Reset via Control Panel
  1. On the printer’s touchscreen or menu, go to Settings.
  2. Select Device Settings or Reset Settings.
  3. Choose Reset LAN Settings or Network Reset.
  4. Confirm the action when prompted.
  5. The printer will reboot or clear its wireless memory.

Reset via Power Cycle

For some Canon models, a power cycle can clear minor network glitches:

  1. Turn off the printer and unplug the power cord.
  2. Wait at least 60 seconds.
  3. Plug the printer back in and turn it on.
  4. Attempt to reconnect to WiFi using one of the methods above.

After a full network reset, treat the printer as a new device. You will need to re-enter the WiFi password and reconnect all computers and mobile devices.

Reconnecting Devices After a Password Change

Changing the WiFi password on the Canon printer is only half the job. Every computer, phone, and tablet that sends print jobs to the printer must also be able to reach it on the network. If the printer receives a new IP address after reconnecting, some devices may lose the ability to print until the printer is re-added.

Windows Computers
  1. Open Settings, then go to Bluetooth & devices or Devices and Printers.
  2. Select Add a printer or scanner.
  3. Choose your Canon printer from the list.
  4. If the printer does not appear, select The printer that I want isn’t listed and add it by IP address or hostname.
  5. Print a test page to confirm the connection.

Mac Computers
  1. Open System Settings or System Preferences.
  2. Go to Printers & Scanners.
  3. Click the plus (+) button to add a printer.
  4. Select your Canon printer on the network.
  5. If it does not appear, use the IP tab and enter the printer’s current IP address.

Mobile Devices
  1. Open the Canon PRINT app on your phone or tablet.
  2. Remove the old printer entry if it shows as offline.
  3. Add the printer again using WiFi setup.
  4. Print a test document or photo from the app.

It is also a good idea to restart your router after major network changes to ensure all devices receive updated network information.

Comparison: Connection Methods at a Glance

The table below compares the most common ways to change or reconfigure Canon printer WiFi settings so you can choose the best option for your situation.

Method Best For Difficulty Requires Password Entry? Equipment Needed
Printer Control Panel Touchscreen models, quick changes Easy to Moderate Yes Printer only
Canon PRINT App Mobile users, models without screens Easy Yes Smartphone or tablet
IJ Network Tool / Utility Office environments, advanced users Moderate Yes Computer, Canon software
WPS Push Button Quick setup without typing Easy No Router with WPS button
Full Network Reset Corrupted settings, starting fresh Moderate Yes (after reset) Printer only

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful preparation, you may encounter problems when changing a Canon printer WiFi password. Below are the most frequent issues and how to resolve them.

Printer Not Showing on Network

If your computer or app cannot find the Canon printer after a password change:

  • Verify the printer is powered on and the WiFi lamp is solid, not flashing.
  • Make sure your controlling device is on the same network band (2.4 GHz vs 5 GHz). Many Canon printers only support 2.4 GHz.
  • Restart the printer and the router.
  • Temporarily disable firewall or antivirus software on your computer and try again.

Incorrect Password Errors

WiFi passwords are case-sensitive. A single uppercase letter entered as lowercase will cause authentication failure. Double-check the password, and if you are unsure, log into your router’s admin panel to confirm the exact key.

Cannot Access Printer Settings

If the printer menu is locked or unresponsive:

  • Check if the printer is in the middle of a print job. Wait until it finishes.
  • Look for a lock icon on the screen. You may need to unlock the settings menu first.
  • Perform a power cycle and try accessing the menu again.

Connection Drops Frequently

Intermittent WiFi on a printer is often caused by signal strength or interference:

  • Move the printer closer to the router.
  • Avoid placing the printer near microwaves, cordless phones, or large metal objects.
  • Assign a static IP address to the printer through your router’s DHCP reservation settings.
  • Update the printer’s firmware from Canon’s support website.

Security Best Practices for Canon Printer WiFi

A printer on your network is an endpoint that can be targeted just like a computer. Follow these best practices after changing your Canon WiFi password:

Use Strong Passwords

Choose a WiFi password that is at least 12 characters long and includes a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid default passwords or easily guessed phrases.

Disable WPS When Not Needed

WPS is convenient but has known security vulnerabilities. If you do not actively use WPS, turn it off in your router settings to reduce the attack surface.

Keep Firmware Updated

Canon periodically releases firmware updates that patch security vulnerabilities and improve wireless stability. Check your printer model’s support page every few months and install updates as they become available.

Guest Network Isolation

If you have guests who need to print, consider setting up a guest network on your router. Keep your main Canon printer on the private network, and only allow guest devices to access it if your router supports inter-VLAN printing rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change the Canon WiFi password without a computer?

Yes. If your Canon printer has a touchscreen, you can change WiFi settings directly on the device. You can also use the Canon PRINT app on a smartphone or tablet.

What if I forgot my Canon printer WiFi password?

The printer does not display saved passwords in plain text for security reasons. You will need to reset the network settings and set up the connection again using your router’s current WiFi password.

Does changing the router password automatically update the printer?

No. You must manually update the WiFi credentials on the Canon printer after changing your router password.

Why does my Canon printer only connect to 2.4 GHz WiFi?

Many Canon printer models support only the 2.4 GHz wireless band. If your router uses the same SSID for both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, the printer should connect to the 2.4 GHz radio. If the bands are split into separate network names, select the 2.4 GHz network during setup.

How do I find my Canon printer’s IP address after reconnecting?

Print a network configuration page from the printer’s control panel. The page lists the current IP address, SSID, signal strength, and MAC address.

Is WPS safe to use for Canon printer setup?

WPS is convenient but less secure than manual password entry. Use it only for initial setup, then disable WPS on your router if security is a priority.

Do I need to reinstall printer drivers after a WiFi password change?

Usually no. The drivers remain installed on your computer. However, if the printer’s IP address changes, you may need to re-add the printer in your operating system’s printer settings.

Conclusion

Knowing How to Change Canon Wifi Password? is a practical skill that keeps your home or office printing workflow running smoothly. Whether you use the printer’s control panel, the Canon PRINT app, desktop network utilities, or WPS, the process is straightforward once you understand the steps for your specific model.

Start by identifying your Canon printer model and gathering your network credentials. Choose the connection method that matches your hardware, follow the step-by-step instructions, and verify the connection with a test print. Afterward, reconnect your computers and mobile devices, and apply basic security practices such as strong passwords and firmware updates.

If you run into trouble, the troubleshooting section of this guide covers the most common obstacles, from incorrect passwords to missing devices. With patience and the right approach, you can restore your Canon printer’s wireless connection and keep it secure on your network for the long term.