Canon printers are known for their high-quality printing and versatile wireless features. However, even the best printers can run into issues, and one of the most frustrating problems users face is the Canon printer not connecting to the internet. Whether your printer won't connect to Wi-Fi, can’t be found on the network, or keeps disconnecting, this guide will walk you through the step-by-step solutions to restore your Canon printer’s connection to the internet.


Common Causes of Canon Printer Internet Connectivity Issues

Before diving into the solutions, it's essential to understand what might be causing the issue:

  • Weak or unstable Wi-Fi signal

  • Incorrect network password

  • Printer not within range of the router

  • Network settings misconfigured

  • Outdated firmware or drivers

  • Router issues or blocked MAC address

  • Conflicts from firewalls or antivirus software

Knowing these causes can help you troubleshoot more effectively.

 

Step 1: Check Wi-Fi Network and Signal Strength

The most basic issue can be an unstable or weak Wi-Fi connection.

What to do:

  • Ensure your router is powered on and broadcasting the network.

  • Place the printer within 10–15 feet of the router during setup.

  • Avoid placing the printer near thick walls, metal objects, or microwaves that can disrupt the signal.

  • Connect another device (like a smartphone) to your Wi-Fi to verify it’s working.

If your network isn't stable, reset your router and try connecting again.

 

Step 2: Re-enter the Wi-Fi Password Correctly

A common mistake during setup is entering the wrong Wi-Fi password.

Fix:

  1. Go to your printer’s Wireless Setup menu.

  2. Select Wi-Fi Setup Wizard or Standard Setup.

  3. Choose your network from the list and carefully enter the password, noting capitalization and symbols.

  4. Wait for the printer to confirm the connection.

Tip: Double-check your router label for the correct SSID and password.

 

Step 3: Restart Printer, Router, and Computer

Restarting your devices can help reset temporary glitches in communication.

Steps:

  1. Power off the printer, computer, and router.

  2. Unplug all devices for 1–2 minutes.

  3. Plug in and turn them on one at a time, starting with the router.

After all devices restart, try connecting the Canon printer to Wi-Fi again.

 

Step 4: Reconnect Using the Wireless LAN Setup

The Wireless LAN Setup method is one of the most reliable ways to connect your Canon printer to the internet.

For most Canon models:

  1. Press the Setup button on the printer.

  2. Navigate to Wireless LAN Setup > Press OK.

  3. Select Easy Setup or Standard Setup.

  4. Choose your network and enter the password.

  5. Once connected, print a Network Configuration Page to confirm success.

If your model has a touchscreen, navigate using the on-screen instructions.

 

Step 5: Use WPS Push Button Setup (If Supported)

If your router supports WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup), you can connect your printer without entering a password.

How to do it:

  1. On the Canon printer, press and hold the Wi-Fi button until the lamp flashes.

  2. Within 2 minutes, press the WPS button on your router.

  3. Wait for the printer to establish a connection. The Wi-Fi lamp should stay lit.

This method is quick and ideal for users unfamiliar with network settings.

 

Step 6: Check IP Address and Network Settings

Sometimes, the printer may be connected to the Wi-Fi but can’t communicate due to incorrect IP settings.

Check the IP address:

  • Print the Network Configuration Page from your printer’s settings.

  • Ensure the IP address is in the same range as your router (e.g., 192.168.1.x).

  • If the IP address starts with 169.254, the printer isn’t properly connected.

You can assign a static IP address using your router settings or the Canon IJ Network Tool.

Step 7: Update Printer Firmware and Drivers

Outdated firmware or drivers can disrupt wireless communication.

Update printer firmware:

  • Go to Canon's support site and enter your printer model.

  • Download the latest firmware and install it according to the instructions.

Update drivers (for computer connection):

  • On Windows: Go to Device Manager > Printers > Update driver.

  • On Mac: Go to System Settings > Software Update or download drivers from Canon’s website.

 

Step 8: Check Firewall or Antivirus Interference

Firewalls or antivirus software may mistakenly block your printer from connecting.

What to do:

  • Temporarily disable your firewall and antivirus software.

  • Try connecting the printer to Wi-Fi.

  • If successful, add the printer as a trusted device or whitelist it in your firewall settings.

Warning: Always re-enable your security software after testing.

 

Step 9: Reset Network Settings on Canon Printer

Resetting the network settings can resolve hidden misconfigurations or glitches.

How to reset:

  1. On your Canon printer, go to Setup > Device Settings > Reset Settings.

  2. Select Reset LAN Settings or Reset All Settings.

  3. Confirm the reset.

Afterward, repeat the wireless setup process.

 

Conclusion

A Canon printer not connecting to the internet is a common but solvable issue. By checking your Wi-Fi setup, verifying passwords, restarting devices, and updating software, you can fix most problems in just a few steps. Use the printer’s built-in tools like Wireless LAN Setup or WPS to simplify the connection process. And if you hit a wall, Canon’s customer support is always available to help.

Consistently ensuring your network is stable and your printer firmware is up to date will prevent these issues from returning. With the right steps, your Canon printer will be back online and printing wirelessly in no time.