If your Canon printer won’t scan, start by checking the USB or network connection between your printer and computer. Ensure the scanner driver is correctly installed, and the printer is set as the default scanning device. Restart both devices and try scanning again. Updating your printer software or using Canon’s official scanning utility may also help.

 

 

Common Causes of Canon Printer Not Scanning

Before diving into the fixes, it’s helpful to understand the typical causes of scan issues:

  1. Driver Issues – Outdated or corrupt drivers can interrupt scanner functionality.

  2. Connectivity Problems – Poor or failed USB/Wi-Fi connections.

  3. Software Conflicts – Interference from third-party applications.

  4. Firewall/Security Settings – Blocking communication between the printer and computer.

  5. Incorrect Settings – Scanner not selected or misconfigured in scanning software.

  6. Outdated Operating System – Incompatibility between OS and scanner drivers.

  7. Firmware Glitches – Bugs in the printer’s internal software.

 

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting for Canon Printer Not Scanning

Step 1: Check the Connection

For USB Connection:

  • Make sure the cable is securely connected to both the printer and the computer.

  • Try using a different USB port.

  • Avoid using USB hubs and plug directly into the computer.

For Wireless Connection:

  • Ensure the printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your computer.

  • Print a network configuration page to verify connection.

  • Restart your router and reconnect the printer.

 

Step 2: Restart Devices

  • Power off your Canon printer, unplug it for 30 seconds, and power it back on.

  • Restart your computer.

  • Try scanning again once both devices are back online.

 

Step 3: Update or Reinstall Canon Printer Drivers

Drivers are essential for the scanner to communicate with your computer:

  • Visit the Canon support website.

  • Search for your printer model and download the latest scanner drivers.

  • Install or reinstall both the printer and scanner drivers.

  • On Windows, use Device Manager to check for driver issues.

 

Step 4: Use Canon’s Scanning Software

Make sure you’re using the right software to initiate scanning:

  • Install Canon IJ Scan Utility or Canon Quick Menu.

  • Launch the scanning software and select the correct device.

  • Test the scan function through the utility.

 

Step 5: Check Windows Scan Settings

If you're using Windows:

  • Open the Control Panel and go to Devices and Printers.

  • Right-click your Canon printer and choose Start Scan.

  • If it doesn’t respond, go to Windows Fax and Scan.

  • Try scanning from this default program.

 

Step 6: Set the Correct Scanner as Default

Sometimes the scan function fails because the system is targeting the wrong device:

  • On Windows, go to Control Panel > Scanners and Cameras.

  • Right-click the correct Canon scanner and set it as default.

On macOS:

  • Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.

  • Select your Canon device and ensure it appears under the scanner tab.

 

Step 7: Check Firewall and Antivirus Settings

Security software can sometimes block communication:

  • Temporarily disable your antivirus or firewall and test the scan.

  • If scanning works, add the Canon software to the firewall’s exceptions list.

 

Step 8: Clear Print & Scan Queues

Stuck processes may cause the scan to fail:

  • Cancel all pending print/scan jobs.

  • Restart both the printer and computer.

  • Try scanning again.

Step 9: Perform a Test Scan From the Printer Panel

  • Use the Canon printer’s touchscreen or button panel.

  • Select the scan option and try scanning to a connected PC or email.

  • This can help isolate if the issue is with the printer or computer.

Step 10: Perform a Firmware Update

Outdated firmware can result in bugs:

  • Go to Canon’s official site and check for firmware updates for your printer.

  • Follow the provided instructions to update the device.

 
 

Advanced Troubleshooting

Check Scanner Status in Device Manager (Windows)

  • Right-click Start > Device Manager.

  • Expand Imaging devices.

  • Right-click the Canon scanner and choose Update Driver.

  • If it’s missing or marked with a yellow exclamation mark, reinstall the driver.

Run Windows Troubleshooter

  • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional Troubleshooters.

  • Select Printer and let it run diagnostics.

  • Follow the on-screen steps to resolve scanning issues.

Use Image Capture (macOS)

  • Open Image Capture from Applications.

  • Select your Canon scanner from the left panel.

  • Try performing a scan directly from the app.

When to Contact Canon Support

If all troubleshooting steps fail, the issue might be hardware-related or require professional service:

  • Visit the Canon Support page.

  • Use live chat or call their customer service.

  • Be ready with your printer model, serial number, and error messages.

Preventing Future Scanning Issues

  1. Keep Drivers and Software Updated: Regularly check for updates.

  2. Maintain a Stable Connection: Avoid frequent disconnections.

  3. Use Genuine Canon Software: Stick with Canon apps for scanning.

  4. Perform Regular Maintenance: Clean the scanner bed and keep firmware current.

 

Conclusion

Canon printers are generally reliable, but scanning issues can arise from a variety of causes, including driver errors, network problems, or settings misconfigurations. By following the step-by-step solutions outlined in this guide, you can troubleshoot and resolve most Canon printer scanning problems without professional help. Staying on top of updates, maintaining a stable connection, and using official Canon utilities will reduce the chance of future issues.

Keep this guide as a reference to quickly restore your printer's full functionality the next time your Canon device refuses to scan.