Setting up and installing a Canon printer can seem daunting at first, but the process is straightforward when you know the right steps. Whether you’re connecting a new Canon printer to your computer for the first time or reinstalling it after a reset, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

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1. Introduction to Canon Printer Setup

Canon is one of the most trusted names in the printing industry, known for its durability, quality, and innovation. From home printers to professional-grade models, Canon offers devices that are easy to install and use. However, many users struggle during the initial setup—especially with wireless models that require software and network configuration.

The setup process generally includes:

1. Unboxing and preparing the printer.

2. Connecting it to a computer or Wi-Fi network.

3. Installing the necessary drivers and software.

4. Testing print functionality.

Canon simplifies this process through its official setup website, ij.start.canon, where users can download the latest drivers and software.

2. Types of Canon Printer Connections

Before you start, it’s essential to understand the different connection methods available:

1. USB Connection – Ideal for single-computer use. The printer connects directly to the computer with a USB cable.

2. Wireless Connection (Wi-Fi) – Allows printing from multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops.

3. Wired Ethernet Connection – Used in office networks for multiple users.

4. Direct Wireless (Wi-Fi Direct) – Lets you connect devices to the printer without a router.

Each connection type has its own setup process, which we’ll cover in detail.

3. Pre-Installation Checklist

Before installing your Canon printer, make sure the following requirements are met:

1. Compatible Operating System: Windows 7/8/10/11 or macOS 10.15 and later.

2. Active Internet Connection: Needed to download drivers from Canon’s official site.

3. Power Source: Ensure your printer is plugged in and powered on.

4. Printer Components: Check for ink cartridges, paper tray, and USB cable (if applicable).

5. Wi-Fi Credentials: Keep your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password handy if connecting wirelessly.

4. Step-by-Step Canon Printer Setup for Windows

Setting up your Canon printer on Windows is simple. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Unbox and Prepare the Printer

1. Remove all packaging materials, tapes, and protective films.

2. Install the ink cartridges correctly by following the printer’s user manual.

3. Load paper into the tray.

4. Plug in the printer and power it on.

Step 2: Connect the Printer

You can choose between USB and wireless connection.

Option 1: USB Connection

1. Use the provided USB cable to connect the printer to your computer.

2. Windows may automatically detect the printer and install default drivers.

Option 2: Wireless Connection

1. On your printer’s control panel, press the Wi-Fi or Wireless Setup button.

2. Select your Wi-Fi network and enter the password.

3. Wait until the Wi-Fi light turns solid, indicating successful connection.

Step 3: Download the Canon Printer Driver

1. Open a web browser and visit https://ij.start.canon.

2. Enter your printer model (e.g., Canon PIXMA MG3620 or G3010) in the search box.

3. Select your operating system if not detected automatically.

4. Download the Full Driver & Software Package.

Step 4: Install the Printer Software

1. Locate the downloaded file (usually in your Downloads folder).

2. Double-click the .exe file to start installation.

3. Follow on-screen prompts and agree to the license terms.

4. When asked, select your connection type (USB or Wireless).

5. The installer will search for your printer and complete the setup.

Step 5: Print a Test Page

Once installation is complete:

1. Open Control Panel → Devices and Printers.

2. Right-click your Canon printer → Printer Properties → Print Test Page.
   If the test page prints successfully, your setup is complete.

5. Canon Printer Setup for macOS

Setting up Canon printers on macOS is just as easy.

Step 1: Power On and Prepare the Printer

1. Install ink cartridges and load paper.

2. Connect to Wi-Fi using your printer’s control panel.

Step 2: Download Canon Software for Mac

1. Visit ij.start.canon.

2. Enter your printer model.

3. Choose macOS as your operating system.

4. Download the full driver package or setup utility.

Step 3: Install the Software

1. Open the .dmg file from your Downloads folder.

2. Double-click the Canon Installer icon.

3. Follow the on-screen steps.

4. Choose Wireless Connection or USB depending on your setup.

5. The installer will detect your printer automatically.

Step 4: Add the Printer to macOS

1. Open System Preferences → Printers & Scanners.

2. Click the + icon.

3. Select your Canon printer from the list and click Add.

Step 5: Print a Test Page

Open any document or image, choose File → Print, and select your Canon printer to verify the setup.

6. How to Set Up Canon Wireless Printer Using IJ.Start.Canon

Wireless printers are the most convenient choice for home and office users. Here’s how to connect your Canon printer to Wi-Fi using ij.start.canon:

Step 1: Visit Canon’s Official Setup Website

Go to https://ij.start.canon and click Set Up (Start Here).

Step 2: Choose Your Model

Enter your printer model and click Go.

Step 3: Download and Run the Setup File

Select your operating system and download the setup package. Run it to begin the installation.

Step 4: Select Connection Type

Choose Wireless LAN Connection when prompted.

Step 5: Connect to Wi-Fi

1. The setup utility will automatically search for available Wi-Fi networks.

2. Select your Wi-Fi and enter the password.

3. Wait until the printer is connected successfully.

Step 6: Complete Installation

The utility installs all required drivers, including:

1. Canon IJ Network Tool

2. Canon IJ Printer Assistant Tool

3. Canon IJ Scan Utility (if supported)

After installation, print or scan a test page to verify successful setup.

7. Setting Up Canon Printer via WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)

If your router supports WPS, you can connect your printer quickly without entering a password.

Step 1: Enable WPS on the Router

Press and hold the WPS button on your Wi-Fi router for a few seconds.

Step 2: Activate WPS on the Printer

Within two minutes, press and hold the Wi-Fi button on your Canon printer until the Wi-Fi light blinks.
The printer will automatically connect to the router.

Step 3: Confirm Connection

When the Wi-Fi light remains solid, your printer is successfully connected.

8. Canon Printer Mobile Setup

Canon also supports mobile printing through its apps.

For Android Devices

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

2. Ensure your phone and printer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

3. Open the app, select your printer, and tap Add Printer.

4. You can now print directly from your phone.

For iOS Devices

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

2. Connect your iPhone to the same Wi-Fi as your printer.

3. Open the app and add your printer.

4. Alternatively, use Apple AirPrint for direct printing from supported apps.

9. Canon Printer USB Setup (Offline Installation)

If you prefer a wired connection or don’t have internet access, follow these steps:

Step 1: Connect the Printer

Plug the printer’s USB cable into your computer.

Step 2: Insert the Canon Setup CD (if available)

If your printer came with a setup CD, insert it and run the setup file.
If not, you can download the driver later when online.

Step 3: Run Installation Wizard

Follow the on-screen steps to install drivers and confirm the USB connection.

Step 4: Print a Test Page

Once installed, your printer is ready for use.

10. How to Reinstall Canon Printer Drivers

Sometimes, you may need to reinstall the printer drivers if your printer isn’t working correctly.

1. Go to Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a Program.

2. Find your Canon printer software and uninstall it.

3. Restart your computer.

4. Visit ij.start.canon.

5. Download and install the latest drivers.

Reinstallation often fixes printing errors, connectivity issues, and driver conflicts.

11. Common Canon Printer Setup Problems and Fixes

Here are common setup issues users encounter and how to resolve them.

Issue 1: Printer Not Detected During Setup

Fix:

1. Ensure your printer is powered on.

2. Reconnect the USB cable or rejoin the Wi-Fi network.

3. Temporarily disable antivirus or firewall during installation.

Issue 2: Printer Offline

Fix:

1. Go to Devices and Printers → Canon Printer → See what’s printing.

2. Click Printer → Use Printer Online.

3. Restart both printer and PC.

Issue 3: Wireless Connection Fails

Fix:

1. Re-enter the correct Wi-Fi password.

2. Reset the network settings on the printer.

3. Move the printer closer to the router.

Issue 4: Slow Printing

Fix:

1. Reduce print quality settings.

2. Clear pending print jobs.

3. Update printer firmware.

Issue 5: Driver Compatibility Error

Fix:

1. Download the latest version of the driver from Canon’s official website.

2. Make sure your OS version matches the selected driver.

12. Updating Canon Printer Software

To maintain performance and compatibility, update your Canon software regularly.

Steps to Update:

1. Visit https://ij.start.canon.

2. Enter your printer model.

3. Download the latest driver or firmware updates.

4. Run the setup file and follow the on-screen prompts.

5. Restart your computer after installation.

13. Canon Printer Maintenance Tips

To ensure your printer lasts longer and performs optimally:

1. Regularly clean the printhead using the printer maintenance option.

2. Use genuine Canon ink cartridges for best quality and longevity.

3. Print a test page weekly to prevent ink from drying.

4. Update firmware periodically for better performance.

5. Keep your printer dust-free and avoid overloading the paper tray.

14. Using Canon IJ Scan Utility with Your Printer

Once your printer is set up, you can use the Canon IJ Scan Utility to scan documents and photos directly to your computer.

Steps to Use:

1. Open the IJ Scan Utility from the Start menu.

2. Choose your scan mode (Auto, Document, or Photo).

3. Adjust settings like resolution and save format.

4. Click Scan to begin.

The scanned file will be saved in your Pictures folder by default.

15. Canon Printer Assistant Tool Overview

The Canon Printer Assistant Tool helps manage printer settings, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

With it, you can:

1. Perform cleaning and alignment.

2. Check ink levels.

3. Manage printer settings.

4. Perform a print head alignment.

You can access this tool from your Start menu under Canon Utilities.

16. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How do I download Canon printer software?
Visit https://ij.start.canon, enter your printer model, and download the setup package for your operating system.

Q2: Can I install a Canon printer without the CD?
Yes. You can install it online through Canon’s official setup site.

Q3: How do I connect my Canon printer to Wi-Fi?
Use the Wi-Fi button on the printer to connect to your router, or use the Canon setup software for guided installation.

Q4: Why is my Canon printer not printing after setup?
Ensure the correct printer is selected, cartridges are installed, and there are no paper jams or offline issues.

Q5: Does Canon support mobile printing?
Yes. Canon offers the PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app for Android and iOS, along with AirPrint support.

Q6: Can I use one Canon printer with multiple computers?
Yes. You can connect it to a Wi-Fi network so all computers on that network can access it.

Q7: How do I reset my Canon printer if setup fails?
Hold the Stop/Reset button for 5–10 seconds, or follow the printer’s manual to restore factory settings.

17. Expert Tips for Smooth Installation

1. Always use Canon’s official drivers; third-party sources may include outdated or unsafe files.

2. Keep your firewall temporarily disabled during installation to prevent connection issues.

3. When using Wi-Fi, ensure the printer and computer are on the same network.

4. Avoid USB hubs—connect the printer directly to your computer.

5. Perform test prints regularly to keep the printer in good condition.

18. Final Thoughts

Installing and setting up a Canon printer doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re using a wired or wireless connection, the key is following the steps carefully and using official Canon software from ij.start.canon. Once installed, your Canon printer will provide reliable, high-quality performance for years—handling everything from documents to vibrant photo prints.

By understanding the setup process, connection methods, and troubleshooting techniques, you can ensure smooth operation every time you print. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, Canon’s user-friendly interface and powerful printing features make it one of the best choices in today’s market.