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Troubleshooting and Repair

How to Reset Wifi on Canon Printer? Reset Modem Settings

Introduction If your Canon printer suddenly stops connecting to the internet, shows an offline status, or refuses to accept print jobs from your phone or computer, the issue is often related to wireless network settings rather than the printer hardware itself.

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Introduction

If your Canon printer suddenly stops connecting to the internet, shows an offline status, or refuses to accept print jobs from your phone or computer, the issue is often related to wireless network settings rather than the printer hardware itself. Learning How to Reset Wifi on Canon Printer? can save time, reduce frustration, and help you restore printing without unnecessary service calls. In many cases, resetting the printer’s wireless settings, refreshing the router connection, or correcting modem settings is enough to fix the problem.

This guide explains the most reliable ways to reset Wifi on a Canon printer, when to reset modem settings, how to reconnect after a reset, and what to do when common problems continue. Because Canon printer models use slightly different menus and buttons, the steps below are organized by method so you can choose the one that matches your device and network setup.

Table of Contents

What Does Resetting Wifi on a Canon Printer Mean?

Resetting Wifi on a Canon printer usually means removing the stored wireless network information and allowing the printer to connect again as if it were being set up for the first time. It can also mean restarting the printer’s network module, clearing saved SSID and password details, or restoring all network settings to factory defaults. The exact result depends on the method you choose and the model you own.

A simple Wifi reset does not normally erase print history, scan settings, or basic printer preferences. However, a full network factory reset may remove all saved wireless profiles, IP address settings, and custom network configurations. Before choosing a reset method, it is useful to understand the difference between the printer’s network settings and your router or modem settings.

Printer Network Settings vs Router Settings

Your Canon printer stores information such as the network name, password, IP address, and connection method. Your router or modem controls the actual wireless signal, DHCP addresses, firewall rules, and internet connection. If the printer has the wrong password, resetting the printer may solve the issue. If the router has changed its SSID, password, or security type, you may need to update both devices. In some cases, resetting modem settings is necessary because the modem has cached old device information or is blocking the printer.

When Should You Reset Wifi Settings?

You may need to reset Wifi settings when the printer was working previously but now cannot connect, when you recently changed your internet provider, when you replaced your router, or when your wireless password was updated. A reset is also helpful after a power outage, after moving the printer to a new room, or when the printer repeatedly disconnects during printing.

Other signs include error messages related to wireless LAN, a blinking Wifi lamp, failed WPS connections, or a printer that appears offline even though it is powered on. If the printer connects to the network but cannot print, the issue may be related to drivers, queue settings, or IP address conflicts rather than Wifi alone. Still, resetting and reconnecting can often clear temporary conflicts.

Before You Start

Before performing any reset, gather the information you will need. This includes your wireless network name, also called the SSID, and the current Wifi password. Also confirm that your modem and router are powered on and that other devices can connect to the internet. If possible, place the printer closer to the router during setup to reduce signal interference.

  • Write down your Wifi network name and password exactly as they appear.
  • Check that the printer is plugged in and turned on.
  • Make sure paper is loaded and there are no critical errors on the control panel.
  • Confirm that your phone or computer is connected to the same network you want the printer to use.
  • Keep the printer manual nearby because menu names vary by model.

It is also wise to avoid resetting network settings during an important print job or when multiple users depend on the printer. A reset will temporarily disconnect the printer from the network until setup is completed again.

How to Reset Wifi on Canon Printer?

There are several ways to reset Wifi on a Canon printer. The best method depends on your model, whether it has a touchscreen, and whether WPS is supported by your router. Start with the least disruptive method and move to a full network reset only if simpler options fail.

Method 1: Use WPS Push Button

WPS, or Wifi Protected Setup, is one of the easiest ways to reconnect a Canon printer without typing a password. This method works only if both the printer and router support WPS and if WPS is enabled in the router settings.

  1. Turn on the Canon printer and make sure it is in a ready state.
  2. Locate the WPS button on your router or modem. It may be labeled WPS or show a circular arrow icon.
  3. On the printer, press and hold the Wifi button until the power lamp flashes or the wireless lamp begins blinking.
  4. Within two minutes, press the WPS button on the router.
  5. Wait while the printer and router exchange connection information.
  6. When the wireless lamp stops blinking and remains steady, the connection is complete.

If the WPS connection fails, check that the router is not too far away, that WPS is enabled, and that no other device is trying to connect at the same time. Some routers disable WPS after repeated failed attempts, so you may need to wait before trying again.

Method 2: Reset From the Printer Control Panel

Many Canon printers allow you to reset or reconnect Wifi directly from the control panel. The exact menu path differs by model, but the general process is similar. Look for settings related to wireless LAN, network, or device settings.

  1. Press the Setup or Menu button on the printer.
  2. Navigate to Device settings, LAN settings, or Wireless LAN setup.
  3. Select the option to change or reset the wireless connection.
  4. Choose your network name from the available list.
  5. Enter the Wifi password carefully using the printer keypad or touchscreen.
  6. Confirm the settings and wait for the printer to connect.

If your printer has a touchscreen, the process may be more visual and may include a setup wizard. Some models allow you to reset only the wireless LAN settings, while others require restoring all network settings. Choose the narrower option first if you only want to fix Wifi.

Method 3: Use the Canon PRINT App

The Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app can simplify setup, especially when the printer does not have a convenient keyboard. This method is useful for home users who manage printing from a smartphone or tablet.

  1. Install or open the Canon PRINT app on your mobile device.
  2. Make sure your phone is connected to the Wifi network you want the printer to use.
  3. Open the app and select the option to add or register a printer.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect the printer to the network.
  5. If prompted, temporarily connect your phone to the printer’s direct wireless network.
  6. Return to the app and complete the registration process.

Using the app can reduce typing errors because it transfers network information from your phone. However, if the app cannot find the printer, make sure Bluetooth or temporary direct connection is enabled if your model requires it. Also ensure that your phone is not connected to mobile data instead of Wifi.

Method 4: Restore Network Defaults

If simpler methods do not work, restoring network defaults is a stronger reset. This removes all saved network information and returns the printer’s networking features to their original state. It is often the most effective answer to How to Reset Wifi on Canon Printer? when settings have become corrupted.

  1. Open the printer menu and go to Setup.
  2. Select Device settings or System settings.
  3. Choose Reset settings or Restore defaults.
  4. Select the network or wireless LAN reset option if one is available.
  5. Confirm the reset when prompted.
  6. Wait for the printer to restart.

After a factory network reset, the printer will no longer know your Wifi password. You must reconnect it using WPS, the control panel, or the Canon PRINT app. If your printer does not offer a separate network reset, restoring all settings may be the only option, but this can also reset other preferences such as language or paper size.

How to Reset Modem Settings for Canon Printer

Sometimes the printer is not the problem. Your modem or router may have changed IP addresses, cached old device information, or applied security settings that prevent the printer from joining the network. Resetting modem settings can help, but it should be done carefully because it may affect every device in your home or office.

Soft Reset: Restart the Modem

A soft reset is the safest first step. It clears temporary memory without erasing your internet provider settings or Wifi password.

  1. Unplug the modem or router from power.
  2. Wait at least 30 seconds.
  3. Plug it back in and allow it to fully restart.
  4. Wait until all normal status lights are stable.
  5. Try connecting the Canon printer again.

A soft reset can fix DHCP issues, temporary signal problems, and stale network assignments. It is often enough when the printer shows connected but cannot communicate with computers or mobile devices.

Hard Reset: Restore Modem Defaults

A hard reset restores the modem or router to factory settings. This should only be used when you know the default login information or are prepared to reconfigure the network. It can erase custom Wifi names, passwords, port forwarding rules, and parental controls.

  1. Locate the small reset button on the modem or router, usually on the back.
  2. Use a paperclip to press and hold the button for about 10 seconds.
  3. Release the button and wait for the device to restart.
  4. Reconnect using the default network name and password printed on the device label.
  5. Reconfigure your Wifi name and password if desired.
  6. Connect the Canon printer using one of the methods above.

After a hard modem reset, all devices must reconnect. If you choose a new SSID or password, update the printer, computers, phones, and smart home devices accordingly. This is also a good time to ensure the modem is using a compatible security mode, such as WPA2 or WPA3, because older printers may not support every security type.

Reconnect Your Canon Printer After Reset

After resetting Wifi or modem settings, reconnecting the printer correctly is essential. A successful reset only clears old information; it does not automatically create a new stable connection. Follow a consistent setup process to avoid repeating the problem.

  1. Confirm that the modem and router are online.
  2. Turn on the Canon printer.
  3. Use WPS, the control panel, or the Canon PRINT app to start wireless setup.
  4. Select the correct network name, paying attention to uppercase and lowercase letters.
  5. Enter the password carefully and confirm it.
  6. Wait for the wireless lamp to become steady.
  7. Print a network configuration page if your model supports it.
  8. Test printing from a computer and a mobile device.

If the printer connects but does not print, check that the correct printer is selected in your operating system or app. Also verify that the printer is not paused, that there are no stuck jobs in the queue, and that the IP address shown on the printer matches the address used by your computer.

Troubleshooting Common Wifi Problems

Even after a reset, wireless printing can fail for reasons unrelated to the reset itself. Signal strength, router settings, firewall rules, and IP conflicts are common causes. The following checks can help identify the real issue.

  • Weak signal: Move the printer closer to the router or remove obstacles such as walls and metal shelves.
  • Wrong password: Retype the password slowly and check for similar characters such as 0 and O or 1 and l.
  • Dual-band confusion: Some printers connect only to 2.4 GHz networks. If your router broadcasts both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz under similar names, connect the printer to the 2.4 GHz option.
  • IP conflict: Restart the modem or assign a reserved IP address to the printer.
  • Firewall blocking: Temporarily disable strict firewall settings or add the printer as a trusted device.
  • Outdated firmware: Check Canon’s support resources for firmware updates for your model.
  • Printer offline: Remove and re-add the printer in your computer’s printer settings.

If the printer repeatedly disconnects, consider whether power-saving settings are turning off the wireless module. Some Canon models have an auto power off feature that can interrupt network communication. Adjusting these settings may improve reliability.

Comparison of Reset Options

Choosing the right reset method can prevent unnecessary downtime. The table below compares common options by difficulty, impact, and best use case.

Reset Option Difficulty What It Changes Best For
WPS Push Button Easy Connects printer without typing password Quick reconnection when WPS is supported
Control Panel Wifi Reset Easy to Moderate Updates or clears wireless connection details Changing Wifi password or network name
Canon PRINT App Easy Transfers network settings from phone Printers without a full keyboard
Restore Network Defaults Moderate Removes all saved network profiles Corrupted or conflicting network settings
Modem Soft Reset Easy Restarts router without erasing settings Temporary connection or DHCP issues
Modem Hard Reset Advanced Restores modem to factory defaults Persistent router or modem configuration problems

Tips and Best Practices

To reduce the need for future resets, keep your network configuration simple and documented. A stable wireless environment makes printing more reliable and reduces the chance of repeated connection failures.

  • Keep the printer within a reasonable distance of the router.
  • Use a consistent Wifi password and avoid frequent changes unless necessary.
  • Label your 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks clearly if your router separates them.
  • Update printer firmware and router firmware when updates are available.
  • Reserve an IP address for the printer in your router settings if possible.
  • Remove old printer entries from computers before adding the printer again.
  • Keep a record of your network name, password, and printer IP address.

It is also helpful to test printing after any network change. A quick test page can confirm that the printer is fully connected and ready for daily use. If you manage a shared printer, notify other users before resetting network settings so they are not surprised by temporary downtime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will resetting Wifi delete my printer settings?

A simple Wifi reset usually removes only wireless network information. A full network factory reset may remove all network settings but generally does not erase basic printer preferences unless you choose a complete settings reset. Always read the confirmation message before proceeding.

How do I know if the problem is the printer or the modem?

If other devices can connect to the internet and the printer still cannot connect, the issue is likely with the printer. If no devices can connect, or the printer connects but cannot reach the internet, the modem or router may be at fault. Testing with another device helps narrow down the cause.

Can I reset Wifi without the printer password?

If you mean the Canon printer’s admin password, some models may require it for certain settings. If you mean the Wifi password, you do not need to know the old Wifi password to reset the printer, but you will need the current network password to reconnect successfully.

Why does my Canon printer keep disconnecting?

Frequent disconnections can be caused by weak signal, router channel congestion, power-saving settings, IP address conflicts, or incompatible security settings. Moving the printer closer to the router and reserving an IP address often improves stability.

Is it safe to reset modem settings?

A soft modem restart is safe and often recommended. A hard factory reset is more disruptive because it erases custom network settings. Use a hard reset only when necessary and when you are prepared to reconfigure the modem.

How long does a Canon printer Wifi reset take?

Most resets take only a few minutes. WPS may complete in under two minutes, while a full network reset and reconnection can take five to ten minutes depending on the model and network speed.

Conclusion

Understanding How to Reset Wifi on Canon Printer? gives you a practical way to solve many common wireless printing problems. Whether you use WPS, the printer control panel, the Canon PRINT app, or a full network reset, the goal is to remove outdated or corrupted connection information and establish a clean link between the printer and your network. If the issue persists, resetting modem settings or troubleshooting router configuration may be necessary.

Start with the simplest method, verify your network details, and reconnect carefully after any reset. With a methodical approach, you can restore reliable wireless printing and avoid unnecessary hardware repairs. Keeping your network stable, documented, and updated will make future Canon printer connections much easier to manage.