If you're trying to print a document and realize your Canon printer isn't yet connected to your WiFi, you're not alone. One of the most common tasks people search online is how to connect Canon printer to WiFi. Whether you’ve just purchased a new Canon printer or you've had one for a while but never got around to setting it up wirelessly, this guide is for you.

You might be wondering, “How can I connect Canon printer to WiFi in the easiest way possible?” or “What do I need to do to connect Canon printer to WiFi without cables?” Or maybe you're looking to switch your printer from a USB connection to wireless. No matter the scenario, the process is simpler than you think—and we’re going to walk through it step-by-step.

Before we dive into the instructions, let's briefly go over the reasons why so many people prefer to connect Canon printer to WiFi instead of using a wired connection. Wireless printing allows for a clean, cable-free workspace, easy access from multiple devices, and more convenience overall. Whether you’re printing from a computer, phone, or tablet, a WiFi-connected Canon printer makes everything more flexible.

So let’s get started with everything you need to know about how to connect Canon printer to WiFi quickly and efficiently.

What You’ll Need

Before starting the setup, gather the following:

  • A Canon printer that supports wireless connectivity

  • Access to a WiFi network (SSID and password)

  • A computer or mobile device for setup

  • The Canon setup software or Canon PRINT app (depending on the method you choose)

Having this ready in advance will ensure your connection process goes smoothly.

Understanding the Connection Methods

There are multiple ways to connect your Canon printer to a WiFi network. The most common methods include:

  • Using the WiFi setup wizard on the printer's screen

  • Using WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) if your router supports it

  • Setting it up through the Canon PRINT app on a smartphone or tablet

  • Connecting via a USB cable first and then switching to WiFi through Canon's setup software

We’ll go over each of these methods so you can choose the one that works best for your situation.

Method 1: Connect Canon Printer to WiFi Using the Printer’s Control Panel

This is the most straightforward method for models with a built-in screen or display panel.

  1. Power on your Canon printer. Make sure it’s plugged in and ready.

  2. Navigate to the settings or setup menu on the printer’s screen. This is typically represented by a gear or wrench icon.

  3. Find the “Wireless LAN Setup” option. Select it to start the process.

  4. Choose “Wireless LAN Setup Wizard.” The printer will begin searching for nearby WiFi networks.

  5. Select your WiFi network (SSID). Once the list of available networks appears, choose yours.

  6. Enter the WiFi password. Use the arrow keys or touch input (depending on your printer) to enter the correct password.

  7. Wait for confirmation. The printer will attempt to connect to the WiFi. Once connected, a success message will appear.

After you successfully connect Canon printer to WiFi, the printer will remember your network settings even if it’s turned off or restarted. You can now print wirelessly from any device on the same network.

Method 2: Connect Canon Printer to WiFi Using WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)

This method is incredibly quick if your router has a WPS button and your printer supports it.

  1. Turn on your Canon printer.

  2. Press and hold the WiFi button on the printer until the WiFi indicator light starts blinking.

  3. Press the WPS button on your WiFi router within 2 minutes. The blinking light on the printer will continue until a connection is made.

  4. Wait for the connection. When the printer is successfully connected, the WiFi light will stop blinking and remain solid.

WPS is an easy, secure way to connect Canon printer to WiFi without entering a password. However, it only works if both your router and printer support WPS.

Method 3: Connect Canon Printer to WiFi Using a USB Cable and Setup Software

If your printer doesn’t have a screen or you prefer using a computer, this method is ideal.

  1. Visit https://ij.start.canon on your computer.

  2. Download the setup software for your printer model.

  3. Run the installer and choose “Wireless Connection” when prompted.

  4. Connect your printer to the computer using a USB cable.

  5. Follow the on-screen instructions. The software will help transfer your WiFi settings from the computer to the printer.

  6. Complete the installation. Once the printer connects to WiFi, you can disconnect the USB cable.

This method ensures your printer connects properly to the network and installs the required drivers in one go.

Method 4: Connect Canon Printer to WiFi Using the Canon PRINT App

For users who want to print from their smartphones or tablets, the Canon PRINT app is the easiest option.

  1. Download the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app from the App Store or Google Play Store.

  2. Open the app and tap “Add Printer.”

  3. Turn on your printer and enable WiFi.

  4. Follow the app's prompts to connect the printer to your network. You may need to temporarily connect your phone to the printer’s hotspot.

  5. The app will transfer the WiFi settings to your printer, and once it’s connected, you’ll be able to print from your mobile device wirelessly.

This method is perfect for households where printing from mobile devices is more common than using a PC.

What to Do After You Connect Canon Printer to WiFi

Once your Canon printer is successfully connected to WiFi, the next steps are:

  • Install printer drivers on your computer (if not done automatically)

  • Add the printer to your operating system’s list of available devices

  • Print a test page to ensure everything is working

For Windows:

  1. Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners.

  2. Click “Add a printer or scanner.”

  3. Wait for your Canon printer to appear and click on it.

  4. Follow the prompts to complete installation.

For macOS:

  1. Go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners.

  2. Click the “+” button to add a new printer.

  3. Select your Canon printer from the list and follow the steps.

After adding the printer, you can now print wirelessly from any program on your computer.

How to Confirm the WiFi Connection

To double-check that everything is connected properly:

  • Print a network configuration page from your printer’s settings menu.

  • Make sure the IP address and SSID match your home network.

  • Look for a “Connected” status on the printout.

Alternatively, you can log in to your router’s admin page and view connected devices to verify your printer is listed.

Troubleshooting: What to Do If You Can’t Connect Canon Printer to WiFi

Sometimes, things don’t go as smoothly as planned. If you’re having trouble, try these tips:

1. Restart everything. Turn off your printer, router, and computer. Wait 30 seconds, then turn them back on.

2. Double-check the WiFi password. It’s easy to mistype. Make sure you enter it exactly as it appears, including uppercase and lowercase letters.

3. Move your printer closer to the router. Weak signals can cause connection problems.

4. Reset network settings on your printer. There’s usually an option under settings to restore network defaults.

5. Use the Canon setup software again. Sometimes running the installer one more time can fix connection issues.

6. Update firmware and drivers. Go to https://ij.start.canon and download the latest versions for your printer.

Tips for Reliable Wireless Printing

Now that your Canon printer is connected to WiFi, here are a few tips to maintain a strong connection and smooth printing experience:

  • Keep your firmware up to date. Check for updates regularly.

  • Avoid placing the printer too far from the router. If possible, keep them in the same room.

  • Assign a static IP address to your printer from your router’s settings to prevent disconnection.

  • Use high-quality WiFi networks (avoid public or unstable networks for printing).

  • Install the Canon PRINT app on all devices for easier mobile printing and monitoring.

FAQs

Can I connect Canon printer to WiFi without a computer?
Yes, using the control panel or Canon PRINT app on a smartphone.

Why is my Canon printer not connecting to WiFi?
Check for incorrect password, signal strength, outdated firmware, or temporarily disable antivirus/firewall.

Do I need to reinstall the printer after changing WiFi networks?
Yes, you’ll need to reconnect your printer to the new network using one of the methods above.

Can I connect multiple devices to the same Canon printer over WiFi?
Absolutely! Any device on the same network can use the printer once it's installed.

Does Canon support cloud printing?
Many Canon printers support Google Cloud Print (older models) or Canon's cloud print services through their app.

Conclusion

Learning how to connect Canon printer to WiFi doesn’t have to be intimidating. With a few simple steps, you can have your printer up and running wirelessly—no tangled cords, no hassle, and full flexibility. Whether you’re using the built-in setup wizard, WPS button, USB setup, or Canon PRINT app, there’s a method that will work for your specific model and needs.

Once your Canon printer is connected to WiFi, you’ll enjoy the ease of printing from anywhere in your home or office—on any device. Just remember to keep your drivers updated, maintain a strong WiFi signal, and print a test page every so often to make sure everything is working as it should.

Now that you know how to connect Canon printer to WiFi, go ahead and enjoy the convenience of wireless printing!