Installing the correct Canon printer driver on Windows or Mac computer is crucial for smooth printing, scanning, and advanced printer functions. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step installation process, troubleshooting, and FAQs to ensure your printer works flawlessly.
Why Do You Need a Canon Printer Driver?
A printer driver acts as a bridge between your computer and printer, allowing communication for printing and scanning. Installing the latest Canon printer driver ensures:
✔️ Proper communication between your printer and computer.
✔️ Access to all features, including scanning, duplex printing, and wireless printing.
✔️ Bug fixes and improvements for better performance.
✔️ Compatibility with the latest Windows or macOS updates.
Step 1: Download the Canon Printer Driver
1. Visit Canon’s Official Website
- Open your browser and go to Canon’s support page.
- Enter your printer model in the search bar (e.g., Canon PIXMA TS3520).
- Click on your printer model from the search results.
2. Choose Your Operating System
- Scroll down to the Drivers & Downloads section.
- Select your Operating System (Windows or macOS).
- Click Download next to the latest driver version.
✅ The driver is now downloaded and ready to install!
Step 2: Install the Canon Printer Driver on Windows
📌 Best for: Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7
Method 1: Install the Driver Automatically (Recommended)
- Locate the downloaded file (usually in the "Downloads" folder).
- Double-click the .exe file to begin installation.
- Follow the on-screen instructions and click Next when prompted.
- Select USB or Wireless connection:
- For USB: Connect your printer via USB when prompted.
- For Wireless: Choose WiFi Setup and follow the instructions.
- Once installation is complete, restart your computer.
- Go to Control Panel > Devices & Printers and check if the printer is listed.
✅ Your Canon printer is now installed and ready to use!
Step 3: Install the Canon Printer Driver on Mac
📌 Best for: macOS Ventura, Monterey, Big Sur, Catalina, Mojave
Method 1: Install the Driver Automatically (Recommended)
- Open Finder and go to the Downloads folder.
- Double-click the .dmg file you downloaded.
- Follow the on-screen installation instructions.
- Select WiFi or USB connection when prompted:
- For USB: Connect your printer via USB.
- For Wireless: Choose your WiFi network and enter the password.
- Once installed, go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.
- Click "+", select your printer, and click Add.
✅ Your Canon printer is now installed and ready to print on macOS!
Step 4: Connect Your Canon Printer to WiFi (Optional but Recommended)
If you are using a wireless Canon printer, follow these steps to set up WiFi printing:
1. Using the Printer’s Control Panel
- Press the WiFi button or go to Setup > Wireless LAN Setup.
- Select WiFi Setup Wizard and wait for the network list.
- Choose your WiFi network (SSID) and enter the password.
- Wait for the connection confirmation message.
2. Using the WPS Button (For Compatible Routers)
- Press the WiFi button on your printer until it starts blinking.
- Within 2 minutes, press the WPS button on your router.
- The printer will connect automatically.
✅ Your Canon printer is now connected to WiFi for wireless printing!
Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues
1. Canon Printer Not Detected During Installation
✔️ Try using a different USB port (for wired setup).
✔️ Restart your computer and printer.
✔️ Disable any firewall or antivirus temporarily.
2. Canon Printer Not Showing Up on Mac
✔️ Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners, click “+”, and add the printer manually.
✔️ Ensure the correct driver is installed.
3. Canon Printer Won’t Connect to WiFi
✔️ Restart the printer and router.
✔️ Move the printer closer to the router.
✔️ Double-check the WiFi password entered.
4. Error: "Canon Driver Not Available" on Windows
✔️ Uninstall the printer driver from Control Panel > Devices & Printers and reinstall it.
✔️ Check for Windows updates and restart your PC.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I install my Canon printer without a CD?
Yes! You can download the latest drivers from Canon’s official website and install them manually.
Q2: How do I update my Canon printer driver?
Go to Canon’s support website, download the latest driver, and install it over the existing one.
Q3: My Canon printer is installed, but it won’t print. What should I do?
✔️ Make sure it is set as the default printer.
✔️ Check the printer queue for pending print jobs.
✔️ Restart both the printer and computer.
Q4: How do I install a Canon printer on Mac without a driver?
Mac supports AirPrint, which allows you to print without installing a driver. Add the printer via System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.
Q5: Can I install my Canon printer on multiple computers?
Yes! Simply install the driver on each computer and connect to the printer via WiFi or USB.
Final Thoughts
Installing the Canon printer driver on Windows or Mac is straightforward when you follow the right steps. Whether you're connecting via USB or WiFi, ensuring you have the correct driver is essential for smooth printing. If you encounter any issues, use the troubleshooting tips above.