How to Change Wifi on My Canon Printer? My Canon Printer Wifi

Introduction

If you have ever upgraded your home network, replaced your router, or simply changed your WiFi password, you have probably wondered How to Change Wifi on My Canon Printer? You are not alone. Canon printers are known for their reliability and print quality, but reconnecting them to a new wireless network can feel confusing the first time you do it. The good news is that Canon provides several straightforward methods to update your printer’s WiFi settings, and most of them take only a few minutes.

This guide walks you through every reliable approach, from using the printer’s own control panel to using the Canon PRINT app, WPS, a USB cable, and even access point mode. You will also find troubleshooting tips, a comparison table to help you choose the best method, and answers to the most common questions people ask when their Canon printer refuses to connect to WiFi. By the end, you will know exactly how to get your Canon printer back online and printing wirelessly.

Table of Contents

• Why You Might Need to Change WiFi on a Canon Printer
• Things to Check Before You Start
• Methods Overview and Comparison Table
• Method 1: Change WiFi Using the Printer Control Panel
• Method 2: Change WiFi Using the Canon PRINT App
• Method 3: Change WiFi Using WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)
• Method 4: Change WiFi Using a USB Cable and Canon Software
• Method 5: Change WiFi Using Access Point Mode
• Troubleshooting Common WiFi Connection Issues
• Tips and Best Practices
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Why You Might Need to Change WiFi on a Canon Printer

There are many everyday reasons you might need to update the wireless settings on your Canon printer. Understanding why this happens helps you pick the fastest solution and avoid repeating the same steps later.

• New router or modem: When you upgrade internet service or replace networking hardware, the network name (SSID) and password often change.
• Password change: If you recently changed your WiFi password for security reasons, the printer can no longer authenticate.
• Moving the printer: Relocating the printer to a different room may place it out of range of the old access point.
• Network consolidation: Combining multiple networks or switching from 2.4 GHz to 5 GHz (or vice versa) can leave the printer disconnected.
• Guest network setup: Some users prefer to keep printers on a dedicated guest or IoT network for security.
• Factory reset: After a reset, the printer forgets all saved networks and must be reconnected.

Whatever the reason, the process is the same at a high level: tell the printer the new network name and password, then verify the connection. The differences lie in how you enter that information.

Things to Check Before You Start

A little preparation prevents most failed connection attempts. Before you begin any method, take a minute to confirm the following.

• Network name and password: Write down the exact SSID and WiFi password, including capitalization and special characters. WiFi passwords are case-sensitive.
• Router status: Make sure the router is powered on and broadcasting. Try connecting another device, such as a phone or laptop, to confirm.
• Printer power: Ensure the printer is turned on and not in sleep mode. Wake it by pressing a button if needed.
• Frequency band: Many Canon printers support only 2.4 GHz networks. If your router broadcasts a combined SSID for both bands, you may need to temporarily separate them or connect the printer to the 2.4 GHz band.
• Distance: Place the printer within a reasonable range of the router during setup to avoid weak-signal failures.
• Canon account and app: If you plan to use the Canon PRINT app, install it on your phone and ensure it is updated.

With these basics confirmed, you are ready to choose a method.

Methods Overview and Comparison Table

Canon printers offer multiple ways to change WiFi settings. The best choice depends on your printer model, whether it has a touchscreen, and how comfortable you are with apps or cables. The table below summarizes the main options.

Method	Best For	Requirements	Difficulty	Speed
Control Panel	Printers with a screen and keypad	Printer LCD and network credentials	Easy	Fast
Canon PRINT App	Smartphone users	App installed and phone on same network	Easy	Fast
WPS	Quick setup without typing passwords	Router with WPS button	Very Easy	Very Fast
USB Cable + Software	Models without screens or app issues	USB cable and Canon setup software	Moderate	Moderate
Access Point Mode	Direct phone-to-printer setup	Phone WiFi and Canon app	Moderate	Moderate

If one method fails, simply try another. They all achieve the same result: storing the new SSID and password in the printer’s memory.

Method 1: Change WiFi Using the Printer Control Panel

This is the most direct way to answer How to Change Wifi on My Canon Printer? if your device has a built-in LCD screen. The exact menu names vary slightly by model, but the flow is consistent across most Canon PIXMA, MAXIFY, and imageCLASS printers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Turn on the printer and wait until it is idle.
2. Press the Setup or Menu button on the control panel.
3. Navigate to Network Settings or Wireless LAN Setup.
4. Select Wireless LAN Setup or Change Network.
5. Choose Standard Setup or Manual Setup if prompted.
6. The printer will search for available networks. Select your new SSID from the list.
7. Enter the WiFi password using the on-screen keyboard. Use the arrow keys to move between characters and confirm each entry.
8. Press OK or Done to save.
9. The printer will attempt to connect. Wait for a confirmation message such as “Connected” or a solid WiFi icon.

Helpful Tips for This Method

• If your SSID does not appear, select Other or Manual Entry and type it exactly.
• Some models require you to press and hold the WiFi button until the light flashes before entering setup.
• If you make a typo in the password, the connection will fail. Re-enter carefully.
• After a successful connection, print a network configuration page to confirm the IP address.

Method 2: Change WiFi Using the Canon PRINT App

The Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app (or Canon PRINT Business for office models) is one of the easiest ways to update wireless settings, especially for printers without a full keyboard. It guides you through the process with on-screen prompts.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Download and install the Canon PRINT app from the App Store or Google Play.
2. Connect your smartphone to the new WiFi network you want the printer to use.
3. Open the app and tap the + icon or Add Printer.
4. If the printer is already registered, select it and open Printer Settings.
5. Choose Change Network or Wireless LAN Setup.
6. Follow the prompts. The app may ask you to temporarily connect your phone to the printer’s access point.
7. Select your home network from the list and enter the password.
8. Wait for the app to confirm that the printer has connected.
9. Return your phone to the home network if it switched.

This method is particularly helpful when the printer’s control panel is small or lacks a full keyboard. The app handles most of the typing for you.

Method 3: Change WiFi Using WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)

WPS is the fastest option if your router supports it. It eliminates the need to type a password by using a button press on both devices. Not all routers or printers support WPS, and some disable it for security reasons, so check your router manual first.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make sure the printer is turned on and within range of the router.
2. Press and hold the WiFi button on the printer until the WiFi lamp starts flashing. On some models, you press Menu > Network > WPS.
3. Within two minutes, press the WPS button on your router.
4. Wait for the printer’s WiFi lamp to stop flashing and remain solid, indicating a successful connection.
5. Print a network status sheet to confirm the IP address and signal strength.

If the connection fails, try moving the printer closer to the router and repeat. Also verify that WPS is enabled in your router settings.

Method 4: Change WiFi Using a USB Cable and Canon Software

When wireless methods are unreliable, a USB cable provides a stable bridge to configure WiFi. This approach is common for printers without screens or when the app cannot find the printer.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Download the latest setup software from the Canon support website for your specific model.
2. Install the software on your computer.
3. Connect the printer to the computer using a USB cable and turn it on.
4. Launch the Canon setup utility and select Wireless LAN Connection or Change Network.
5. Choose your new SSID from the detected list or enter it manually.
6. Enter the WiFi password when prompted.
7. The software sends the settings to the printer over USB.
8. Once confirmed, disconnect the USB cable. The printer should now connect to WiFi automatically.

This method is slightly slower but highly reliable, especially in environments with many networks or interference.

Method 5: Change WiFi Using Access Point Mode

Some Canon printers can broadcast their own temporary WiFi network, allowing your phone or computer to connect directly and configure settings. This is useful when the printer cannot see your home network or when you are setting up a printer for the first time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Enable access point mode on the printer. This is often found under Network Settings > Access Point Mode or triggered by pressing a specific button combination.
2. The printer displays its temporary network name (SSID) and password on the screen or prints them.
3. On your phone or computer, connect to that temporary network.
4. Open a web browser or the Canon app. A setup page should appear automatically.
5. Select your home WiFi network and enter its password.
6. Save the settings. The printer will restart its network interface and join your home network.
7. Reconnect your phone or computer to your home WiFi.

Access point mode is a powerful fallback when other methods fail, and it works even if the printer has no screen, provided you can print the temporary credentials.

Troubleshooting Common WiFi Connection Issues

Even with the right steps, things can go wrong. Here are the most common problems and how to fix them when you are trying to figure out How to Change Wifi on My Canon Printer?

• Printer cannot find the network: Ensure the router is broadcasting on 2.4 GHz. Some Canon printers do not support 5 GHz. Temporarily disable 5 GHz or create a separate 2.4 GHz SSID.
• Wrong password error: Re-enter the password carefully. Check for hidden characters or auto-correct changes on your phone.
• Connection drops after a few minutes: Move the printer closer to the router or reduce interference from microwaves, cordless phones, and thick walls.
• IP address conflict: Restart the router and printer to force a new DHCP assignment.
• Firewall blocking: Temporarily disable firewall or antivirus on your computer during USB setup.
• WPS not working: Confirm WPS is enabled on the router and that you pressed the buttons within the two-minute window.
• App cannot find printer: Ensure your phone and printer are on the same network during setup, or use access point mode.
• Old settings persist: Reset the network settings on the printer to factory defaults and start fresh.

If all else fails, Canon’s support site offers model-specific troubleshooting and firmware updates that can resolve stubborn connectivity bugs.

Tips and Best Practices

A few habits make wireless printing more reliable over the long term.

• Keep firmware updated: Canon periodically releases firmware that improves WiFi stability. Check for updates in the app or on the support site.
• Assign a static IP: If your printer frequently loses its address, set a static IP in your router’s DHCP reservation list.
• Use WPA2 or WPA3: Modern security protocols are more stable and secure than older WEP or open networks.
• Place the printer wisely: Avoid metal cabinets, microwaves, and thick concrete walls between the printer and router.
• Document your settings: Keep a note of the SSID, password, and printer IP address for future reference.
• Test after setup: Print a test page and, if possible, print from multiple devices to confirm everything works.
• Consider Ethernet: For a stationary office printer, a wired Ethernet connection is often more reliable than WiFi.

Following these tips reduces the chances that you will need to repeat the setup process soon.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Look for a solid WiFi icon or light on the printer. You can also print a network configuration page from the settings menu, which shows the SSID, IP address, and connection status. If the page prints successfully over WiFi, the connection is working.

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

Yes. Use the Canon PRINT app, WPS, access point mode, or a USB cable with Canon setup software. These methods do not require an onboard display.

Why does my Canon printer keep disconnecting from WiFi?

Common causes include weak signal, router band steering, IP conflicts, and outdated firmware. Try moving the printer closer, assigning a static IP, or updating firmware. Also check that the router is not switching between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz in a way that confuses the printer.

Does changing WiFi reset my printer settings?

No. Changing only the network settings leaves your print preferences, paper settings, and other configurations intact. A full factory reset, however, will erase everything.

What if my router does not have a WPS button?

Use one of the other methods, such as the control panel, Canon PRINT app, USB cable, or access point mode. WPS is convenient but not required.

Can I connect my Canon printer to a 5 GHz network?

It depends on the model. Many Canon printers support only 2.4 GHz. Check your printer’s specifications. If it supports dual-band, you can connect to either. If not, connect to a 2.4 GHz network.

How long does it take to change WiFi on a Canon printer?

Most methods take between two and ten minutes. WPS is fastest, while USB setup may take a bit longer due to software installation.

Is it safe to use WPS?

WPS is convenient but has known security weaknesses. If security is a priority, use manual password entry instead and disable WPS on your router when not in use.

Conclusion

Now you have a complete answer to How to Change Wifi on My Canon Printer? Whether you prefer the direct approach of the control panel, the convenience of the Canon PRINT app, the speed of WPS, the reliability of a USB cable, or the flexibility of access point mode, there is a method that fits your situation. Start with the one that matches your printer model and available tools, and keep the troubleshooting tips handy in case something goes wrong.

Remember to verify the connection by printing a test page and, if possible, printing from multiple devices. With a stable WiFi setup, your Canon printer will be ready to handle everyday printing, scanning, and copying tasks without interruption. If you ever change your network again, you now know exactly where to start.