Introduction
In today’s digital world, setting up your home or office printer shouldn’t be a complicated process. If you’ve just purchased a Canon PIXMA printer and you’re wondering how to get started, this guide will walk you through the exact steps. Whether you’re looking to connect your PIXMA printer to WiFi, install my Canon printer to my computer, or simply understand how the IJ Start Canon printer setup works, you’ve come to the right place.
Many users face common issues during the initial setup—especially when they try to connect Canon printer to WiFi or download the required software. This article simplifies the entire process for you, making it easy to follow, even if you’re not tech-savvy. We’ll cover everything from unboxing your PIXMA printer to installing the necessary drivers and getting it fully connected to your WiFi network and computer.
By the end of this tutorial, you’ll be confident in your ability to connect your PIXMA printer to WiFi, complete the IJ Start Canon printer setup, and install your Canon printer to your computer without stress.
Install or Connect PIXMA Printer to WiFi and PC: IJ Start Guide
Step 1: Unpack and Prepare Your Canon PIXMA Printer
Before diving into the WiFi connection or driver installation, the first step is to prepare your printer physically.
- Remove all the protective tapes and packaging materials.
- Connect the power cord to the printer and plug it into an outlet.
- Press the power button to turn it on.
- If your PIXMA model has a touchscreen display, follow the on-screen instructions to select your language, region, and date/time.
This ensures your printer is ready for network configuration and software setup.
Step 2: Ensure a Stable Internet Connection
To connect your PIXMA printer to WiFi, both your printer and computer must use the same WiFi network. Make sure:
- Your WiFi network is active and broadcasting.
- You know your network name (SSID) and password.
- Your computer is connected to the same WiFi network you want your printer to use.
A stable and reliable internet connection is essential for smooth setup and for downloading drivers from the IJ Start Canon portal.
Step 3: Visit the IJ Start Canon Printer Setup Website
Canon has made the setup process incredibly user-friendly by providing a centralized platform for drivers and software—IJ Start Canon.
Here’s how to access it:
- Open a browser on your computer (Chrome, Edge, Safari, etc.).
- Go to the official website: https://ij.start.canon
- Click on “Set Up” and enter your PIXMA printer model (e.g., PIXMA MG3620, PIXMA TS3320).
- Click Start to proceed to the product-specific setup page.
- Download the recommended setup software for your operating system (Windows or macOS).
This software will guide you through the process to install your Canon printer to your computer and complete the wireless setup.
Step 4: Install Canon Software and Drivers
Once the software download is complete:
- Open the downloaded file to begin the installation.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
- Select Wireless LAN Connection when prompted to choose a connection method.
- The installer will then ask whether your printer is already connected to WiFi or if you want to connect it now. Choose “Connect to the network”.
This is a critical part of both the Canon printer WiFi connection and the installation to your computer. If your printer isn’t already on the network, the software will help you connect it.
Step 5: Connect PIXMA Printer to WiFi: Standard Method
If your PIXMA printer has a display screen, use the built-in Wireless LAN Setup feature.
- On the printer’s screen, go to Settings > Wireless LAN Setup.
- Choose Easy Setup or Standard Setup.
- Select your WiFi network (SSID) from the list.
- Enter your WiFi password using the on-screen keyboard.
- Wait for the printer to connect and display a confirmation message.
This method is secure and works with nearly all home routers.
Step 6: Use WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) for Quick Connection (Optional)
Some routers and Canon PIXMA printers support WPS, allowing a quick connection without entering a password.
To use WPS:
- Press the WiFi button on your PIXMA printer until the LED starts flashing.
- Press the WPS button on your router within two minutes.
- Wait for the printer to automatically connect to the network. The LED light will stabilize when the connection is successful.
WPS is a convenient way to connect your PIXMA printer to WiFi without navigating menus or typing credentials.
Step 7: Complete the Software Setup on Your Computer
Once your printer is connected to WiFi, return to your computer to finish the setup.
- The Canon setup software will detect the printer on the same network.
- It will install the necessary drivers and utilities to allow printing and scanning.
- You’ll be asked to confirm settings, and you can choose to set this printer as the default.
- Print a test page to confirm successful installation.
You’ve now successfully completed the process to install your Canon printer to your computer via WiFi using the IJ Start Canon printer setup system.
Step 8: Manually Add Printer (If Not Detected Automatically)
In some cases, your printer may not be detected automatically. You can manually add it through your operating system settings.
For Windows:
- Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners.
- Click Add a Printer or Scanner.
- Select your Canon PIXMA printer from the list and click Add Device.
For macOS:
- Open System Settings > Printers & Scanners.
- Click the + sign to add a new printer.
- Choose your PIXMA printer from the list and add it.
This step ensures you can still use the printer even if the automatic setup doesn’t work.
Step 9: Download Additional Canon Utilities (Optional)
Canon offers several optional tools to enhance your experience:
- Canon Easy-PhotoPrint Editor for photo editing and creative layouts.
- Canon IJ Scan Utility for quick scanning to your computer.
- My Image Garden a creative suite for organizing and printing photos.
- PosterArtist for designing posters, flyers, and other graphics.
These can also be downloaded from the IJ Start Canon website after initial setup.
Step 10: Test Print and Scan
After everything is installed:
- Open any document or image and try printing it.
- Use the scan utility to scan a test document.
- Ensure both functions work smoothly via the wireless connection.
Testing ensures that your printer is fully operational after the installation.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you encounter issues during setup:
- Printer not connecting to WiFi: Double-check your network name and password. Restart both the printer and router.
- Printer not showing on computer: Ensure your computer is on the same network and firewall is not blocking the installer.
- Slow printing or scanning: Move the printer closer to the router for a stronger WiFi signal.
Canon’s support pages and forums are also great resources if you need additional help.
Conclusion
Setting up a Canon PIXMA printer doesn’t have to be difficult. Whether your goal is to connect your PIXMA printer to WiFi, install your Canon printer to your computer, or use the IJ Start Canon printer setup, this step-by-step guide covers everything you need to get started.
With the right preparation and a few simple steps, you’ll be printing wirelessly from your computer in no time. Remember, always start with the official Canon setup site (ij.start.canon) to get the latest drivers and instructions tailored to your model.
