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How to Change Wifi on a Canon Printer? Canon Printer Wifi Setup Steps

Introduction Changing the wireless network on a Canon printer can feel intimidating if you have never done it before, but the process is straightforward once you know which method matches your printer model. Whether you recently switched internet providers, re

HowToFixWiFi

Introduction

Changing the wireless network on a Canon printer can feel intimidating if you have never done it before, but the process is straightforward once you know which method matches your printer model. Whether you recently switched internet providers, replaced your router, updated your WiFi password, or moved your printer to a different room, you need to know How to Change Wifi on a Canon Printer? so your device can keep printing wirelessly without interruption.

Canon printers support several ways to connect to a wireless network, including WPS push button, the printer control panel, the Canon PRINT app, and the Wireless Setup Wizard. The right approach depends on whether your printer has a touchscreen, a small LCD screen, or only buttons and indicator lights. This guide walks you through every scenario, explains how to change WiFi on a Canon printer that is already connected to a network, and offers troubleshooting tips for common connection problems.

By the end of this article, you will have a clear, step-by-step roadmap for updating your Canon printer’s WiFi settings, resetting network configurations when necessary, and maintaining a stable wireless connection for everyday printing.

Table of Contents

Why You Might Need to Change WiFi on a Canon Printer

There are several common situations that make it necessary to update the wireless network settings on a Canon printer. Understanding your specific scenario can help you choose the fastest setup method.

  • New router or modem: If you replaced your home networking equipment, the network name (SSID) or password may have changed, even if you kept the same internet provider.
  • Changed WiFi password: Updating your router password for security means every wireless device, including your printer, needs the new credentials.
  • Moved the printer: Relocating the printer to a different floor or room might put it closer to a different access point or mesh node.
  • Switched internet providers: A new ISP usually comes with a new router and new WiFi credentials.
  • Printer lost connection: Power outages, firmware updates, or network glitches can cause a printer to forget its saved wireless settings.
  • Separate guest network: You may want to move the printer from your main network to a guest network, or vice versa, for better security or performance.

No matter the reason, knowing How to Change Wifi on a Canon Printer? ensures you can restore wireless printing quickly without needing a technician.

Before You Start: What You’ll Need

Gather the following items before you begin the setup process. Having everything ready will save time and reduce frustration.

  • Network name (SSID): The exact name of the WiFi network you want the printer to join.
  • WiFi password: The network security key or passphrase. Note that passwords are case-sensitive.
  • Canon printer model: Knowing your model number helps you find model-specific instructions if needed.
  • Power source: Make sure the printer is plugged in and powered on.
  • Computer, smartphone, or tablet: You may need a device to download the Canon PRINT app or confirm the connection.
  • Router access: For WPS setup, you need physical access to the WPS button on your wireless router.

It is also helpful to confirm that your router is broadcasting a 2.4 GHz network. Most Canon printers support 2.4 GHz WiFi, but not all models support 5 GHz. If your router uses a single network name for both bands, the printer should still connect, but separating them can make setup easier.

Method 1: WPS Push Button Setup

WiFi Protected Setup (WPS) is one of the easiest ways to connect a Canon printer to a wireless network. This method works best if your router has a physical WPS button and your printer supports WPS push button mode.

Step-by-Step WPS Instructions

  1. Place the printer within range of your wireless router.
  2. Turn on the printer and make sure it is in a ready state.
  3. Press and hold the WiFi button on the printer until the power light flashes. On some models, you may need to press and hold the Wireless Connect button instead.
  4. Press the WPS button on your wireless router within two minutes. The router will begin searching for WPS devices.
  5. Wait for the printer’s WiFi light to stop flashing and remain solid. This indicates a successful connection.
  6. Print a network configuration page from the printer to verify the connection and note the assigned IP address.

If the connection fails, the WiFi light on the printer may continue flashing or turn off. In that case, repeat the steps or try a different setup method.

Method 2: Standard WiFi Setup via Printer Control Panel

For Canon printers with a control panel but no full touchscreen, you can use the standard wireless LAN setup through the device settings menu. This is a reliable option when WPS is not available.

Step-by-Step Control Panel Setup

  1. Press the Setup or Menu button on the printer.
  2. Use the arrow keys to navigate to Device Settings or LAN Settings.
  3. Select Wireless LAN Setup and press OK.
  4. Choose Wireless LAN Setup Wizard or Search for SSID, depending on your model.
  5. The printer will scan for available networks. Select your network name from the list.
  6. Enter the WiFi password using the on-screen keyboard or arrow keys. Be careful with uppercase and lowercase letters.
  7. Confirm the settings and wait for the printer to connect.
  8. Print a network status page to confirm the printer received an IP address from your router.

This method works well for many Canon PIXMA, MAXIFY, and imageCLASS models that have physical buttons and small displays.

Method 3: Canon PRINT App Setup

The Canon PRINT app is a convenient option for users who prefer setting up a printer from a smartphone or tablet. This method is especially helpful if your printer does not have an easy-to-use control panel for typing passwords.

Step-by-Step App Setup

  1. Download the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
  2. Open the app and make sure your mobile device is connected to the WiFi network you want the printer to use.
  3. Tap Add Printer or the plus icon to begin searching for available printers.
  4. Select your Canon printer from the list of discovered devices.
  5. Choose your WiFi network from the available options.
  6. Enter the network password when prompted.
  7. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
  8. Print a test page from the app to confirm everything is working.

The app method is often the fastest way to change WiFi on a Canon printer because it handles much of the configuration automatically through your mobile device.

Method 4: Wireless Setup Wizard for LCD Models

Canon printers with a full LCD screen or touchscreen often include a dedicated Wireless Setup Wizard. This method provides a guided interface for entering network credentials directly on the printer.

Step-by-Step Wireless Setup Wizard

  1. On the printer’s home screen, tap Settings or the gear icon.
  2. Select Device Settings or Network Settings.
  3. Tap Wireless LAN Setup.
  4. Choose Wireless Setup Wizard.
  5. The printer displays a list of detected wireless networks. Select your network.
  6. Enter the WiFi password using the touchscreen keyboard.
  7. Tap Connect or Apply.
  8. Wait for the confirmation message, then print a network configuration page to verify the IP address and signal strength.

This method is ideal for higher-end Canon PIXMA and MAXIFY printers with color displays.

How to Change WiFi Network on an Already Connected Canon Printer

If your Canon printer is already connected to one wireless network and you need to switch it to a different network, the process is slightly different from a first-time setup. You generally have two options: update the network through the existing settings menu, or reset the network settings and start over.

Option 1: Update Network Through Settings

  1. Open the printer’s Settings or Setup menu.
  2. Navigate to Device Settings > LAN Settings > Wireless LAN Setup.
  3. Look for an option labeled Change Network, Switch SSID, or Reconnect.
  4. Select your new network from the list of available networks.
  5. Enter the new WiFi password and confirm.
  6. Wait for the printer to disconnect from the old network and connect to the new one.

Option 2: Reset and Reconfigure

If the printer does not offer a direct “change network” option, or if it is holding onto old credentials, resetting the network settings is often the most effective way to change WiFi on a Canon printer.

  1. Perform a network reset using the instructions in the next section.
  2. After the reset, use any of the setup methods described earlier (WPS, control panel, Canon PRINT app, or Wireless Setup Wizard) to connect to the new network.
  3. Reinstall the printer driver on your computer if the printer does not appear automatically after the network change.

Remember that changing the WiFi network may also change the printer’s IP address. If you have the printer added to your computer by IP address, you may need to update the port settings in Windows or macOS.

Resetting Network Settings on a Canon Printer

A network reset clears all saved wireless credentials and returns the printer’s network configuration to factory defaults. This is useful when you cannot remember the current password, when the printer refuses to connect to a new network, or when you want a clean slate before changing WiFi.

General Network Reset Steps

  1. Make sure the printer is turned on.
  2. Press and hold the Stop or Resume button (sometimes represented by a triangle inside a circle) until the alarm light flashes a specific number of times. The exact number of flashes varies by model, so consult your printer manual if needed.
  3. Release the button when the correct flash sequence is complete.
  4. Alternatively, navigate to Settings > Device Settings > Reset Settings > LAN Reset or Network Reset on models with a screen.
  5. Confirm the reset when prompted.
  6. After the reset, the printer’s WiFi light may flash, indicating it is ready for a new connection.

Once the network settings are reset, proceed with your preferred setup method to connect to the new WiFi network.

Troubleshooting Common WiFi Connection Issues

Even after following the steps above, you may encounter issues while trying to change WiFi on a Canon printer. Here are the most common problems and how to fix them.

Printer Not Found During Setup

  • Make sure the printer and your setup device are on the same network during app-based setup.
  • Restart the printer and the router.
  • Move the printer closer to the router to eliminate signal interference.
  • Disable VPN or firewall software temporarily on your computer or phone.

Wrong Password Error

  • Double-check the WiFi password for typos. Remember that passwords are case-sensitive.
  • If you recently changed the router password, make sure you are entering the new one, not the old one.
  • Try connecting another device, like a phone, to the same network to confirm the password works.

Weak Signal or Intermittent Connection

  • Place the printer in an open area, away from metal objects, microwaves, and thick walls.
  • Use a 2.4 GHz network if your printer does not support 5 GHz.
  • Consider a WiFi extender if the printer is far from the router.

Printer Shows as Offline

  • Print a network configuration page to confirm the printer has an IP address.
  • Restart the printer and your computer.
  • Remove and re-add the printer in your operating system’s printer settings.
  • Set the printer to use a static IP address through your router’s DHCP reservation list so the address does not change.

Router Compatibility Issues

  • Some modern routers use WPA3 security, which older Canon printers may not support. If possible, set the router to WPA2 or WPA2/WPA3 transitional mode.
  • Make sure MAC address filtering is not blocking the printer.

Connecting Your Computer to the Printer After a WiFi Change

After you change the WiFi network on a Canon printer, your computer may not automatically find the printer, especially if the IP address changed. Here is how to reconnect on Windows and macOS.

Windows

  1. Open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
  2. Click Add device and wait for Windows to search.
  3. Select your Canon printer from the list and click Add device.
  4. If the printer does not appear, choose Add manually and select the printer by TCP/IP address or hostname.

Mac

  1. Open System Settings > Printers & Scanners.
  2. Click the Add Printer button.
  3. Select your Canon printer from the default list or enter its IP address.
  4. Click Add and print a test page.

Comparison: WiFi Setup Methods

Different Canon printer models and user preferences call for different setup methods. The table below compares the most common approaches so you can choose the one that fits your situation.

Method Best For Difficulty Equipment Needed Pros Cons
WPS Push Button Printers and routers with WPS support Easy Router with WPS button No password typing; fast connection Not all routers have WPS; time-limited window
Control Panel Setup Printers with buttons and small screens Moderate Printer only Works without a computer or phone Typing passwords with arrow keys is slow
Canon PRINT App Smartphone or tablet users Easy Mobile device with app User-friendly interface; guided steps Requires app download; both devices must be on same network initially
Wireless Setup Wizard Printers with LCD or touchscreen Moderate Printer only Guided on-screen instructions Only available on select models
Network Reset + Reconfigure Changing WiFi on an already connected printer Moderate Printer and network credentials Clears old settings; clean connection Takes longer; requires reinstalling drivers sometimes

Tips and Best Practices for Stable Printer WiFi

Once you have successfully changed the WiFi on your Canon printer, follow these best practices to keep the connection stable and avoid future disruptions.

  • Use 2.4 GHz for printers: Most Canon printers perform best on the 2.4 GHz band because it has better range and compatibility than 5 GHz.
  • Assign a static IP: Reserve a fixed IP address for the printer in your router settings so it does not change after a reboot.
  • Keep firmware updated: Check Canon’s support website for firmware updates that improve wireless performance and security.
  • Position the router wisely: Place the router in a central location and avoid enclosing it in a cabinet where the signal can be blocked.
  • Name your printer clearly: Give the printer a recognizable name on your network so you can identify it easily when printing from multiple devices.
  • Reconnect after power outages: If the printer loses power for an extended time, it may need to reconnect to WiFi automatically. Check the WiFi light after a blackout.
  • Limit network congestion: If you have many smart devices, consider placing the printer on a separate guest network to reduce traffic on your main network.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my Canon printer is connected to WiFi?

Most Canon printers have a WiFi indicator light. When the light is solid, the printer is connected. If the light is flashing or off, the printer is not connected. You can also print a network configuration page from the printer’s settings menu to confirm the connection status.

Can I change WiFi on a Canon printer without a computer?

Yes. You can use the printer’s control panel, the Wireless Setup Wizard, WPS, or the Canon PRINT app on a smartphone or tablet. A computer is not required for most wireless setup methods.

Why won’t my Canon printer connect to 5 GHz WiFi?

Many Canon printer models only support 2.4 GHz wireless networks. If your router broadcasts both bands under the same name, the printer may still connect, but it is often easier to separate the bands or connect the printer to the 2.4 GHz network specifically.

What should I do if I forgot my WiFi password?

Check the label on your router for the default password, or log into your router’s admin page from a connected device to view or reset the WiFi password. You cannot recover the password from the printer itself.

Do I need to reinstall the printer driver after changing WiFi?

Not always. If the printer keeps the same name and your computer finds it automatically, you may not need to reinstall anything. However, if the IP address changes or the printer does not appear, removing and re-adding the printer is recommended.

How often should I change my printer’s WiFi network?

You only need to change the network when you get a new router, change your WiFi password, switch internet providers, or move the printer to a location with better coverage. There is no scheduled interval for changing WiFi on a Canon printer.

Can multiple devices print to the same Canon printer over WiFi?

Yes. Once the printer is connected to your wireless network, any computer, phone, or tablet on the same network can send print jobs to it, provided the correct driver or app is installed.

What does it mean when the WiFi light on my Canon printer is flashing?

A flashing WiFi light usually means the printer is attempting to connect to a network or is in setup mode. If it continues flashing for several minutes, the connection likely failed, and you should restart the setup process.

Conclusion

Learning How to Change Wifi on a Canon Printer? is a valuable skill for any home or office user. Whether you are setting up a printer for the first time, switching to a new router, or updating your network password, Canon provides several reliable methods to get your printer back online. From WPS push button and the Canon PRINT app to the control panel and Wireless Setup Wizard, you can choose the approach that matches your printer model and comfort level.

If you run into trouble, remember to start with the basics: verify your network name and password, confirm your printer supports your router’s wireless band, and perform a network reset if the old connection is causing conflicts. With the steps and troubleshooting tips in this guide, you should be able to change WiFi on a Canon printer quickly and get back to wireless printing without delays.

Keep this article handy for the next time you need to update your printer’s network settings, and enjoy the convenience of wireless printing from any device in your home or office.