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How to Fix Canon Printer Not Asking for Wi-Fi Password on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Connecting your Canon printer to Wi-Fi on Windows 11 should be straightforward. Sometimes, the printer may not prompt you to enter the Wi-Fi password, causing confusion. This issue can prevent your printer from connecting to your wireless network properly.

Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to resolve this problem. This guide will walk you through easy-to-follow solutions to get your Canon printer asking for the Wi-Fi password again.

No advanced technical skills are needed. Just follow the instructions carefully, and your printer should connect to your network in no time.

Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the detailed steps.

Quick Note: What to Check Before You Begin

  • Ensure your printer supports wireless setup: Some Canon models need manual setup or wired connection before enabling Wi-Fi.
  • Check Windows 11 network connection: Make sure your PC is connected to the correct Wi-Fi network and has internet access.
  • Printer is turned on and ready: The printer should be powered on and in a ready state, without error lights.
  • Wi-Fi router is working properly: Confirm your router is broadcasting the network and accepting new devices.
  • Printer firmware is up to date: Sometimes outdated firmware can cause connection issues.

Step 1: Restart Your Printer and PC

Often, a simple restart can fix temporary glitches that stop the printer from prompting for the Wi-Fi password. Restarting resets network settings and refreshes connections.

  1. Turn off your Canon printer using the power button.
  2. Wait for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
  3. Turn your printer back on and wait until it is fully ready.
  4. Restart your Windows 11 PC by clicking Start > Power > Restart.
  5. Try to connect the printer to Wi-Fi again and see if it asks for the password.

Step 2: Use the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY App

Canon provides a dedicated app for setting up printers on wireless networks. This app can guide you through the Wi-Fi setup process, including entering the password.

  1. Download and install the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app from the Microsoft Store.
  2. Open the app and select Add Printer.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to search for your printer.
  4. When prompted, enter your Wi-Fi password in the app.
  5. Complete the setup and confirm the printer is connected to Wi-Fi.

This method bypasses some common Windows network issues by using Canon’s built-in setup tools.

Step 3: Reset the Printer’s Network Settings

If the printer is not asking for the Wi-Fi password, it might be stuck with old or incorrect network information. Resetting the network settings can clear this and allow a fresh setup.

  1. On your Canon printer, locate the Settings or Menu button.
  2. Navigate to Wireless LAN Settings or Network Settings.
  3. Find and select Reset Network Settings or Restore Default Settings.
  4. Confirm the reset when prompted.
  5. Restart the printer and try connecting to Wi-Fi again.

Resetting removes any saved Wi-Fi details that could be causing the setup to skip the password prompt.

Step 4: Connect via WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)

If your router supports WPS, this can be an easy alternative to manually entering the Wi-Fi password. WPS allows the printer to connect securely at the press of a button.

  1. Press the WPS button on your wireless router.
  2. Within 2 minutes, press the WPS button or select WPS Connection on your Canon printer.
  3. The printer will attempt to connect without asking for a password.
  4. Check the printer’s display or status lights to confirm a successful connection.

Note that WPS may not work on all routers or printers, and some networks disable WPS for security reasons.

Step 5: Reinstall the Printer Driver on Windows 11

Sometimes, the problem lies with the Windows printer driver. Reinstalling the driver can fix communication issues that prevent the Wi-Fi password prompt.

  1. Press Win + X and select Settings.
  2. Go to Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
  3. Select your Canon printer and click Remove device.
  4. Visit the official Canon support website and download the latest Windows 11 driver for your printer model.
  5. Install the driver by following the setup wizard.
  6. During installation, choose the wireless setup option so that the program prompts for your Wi-Fi password.

Drivers ensure proper communication between your PC and printer, and a fresh install resets any faulty settings.

Alternative Method: Manual IP Address Configuration

If your printer allows manual network setup, you can try assigning a static IP address to avoid connection issues.

  • Find your router’s IP range by logging into its admin panel (usually at 192.168.1.1).
  • Choose an unused IP address within the range (for example, 192.168.1.100).
  • On the printer’s network settings, select Manual IP or Advanced Setup.
  • Enter the chosen IP, subnet mask (usually 255.255.255.0), and default gateway (your router’s IP).
  • Save the settings and try printing a network status page to confirm connectivity.

This method is more advanced but helps in environments with strict network controls.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why isn’t my Canon printer asking for the Wi-Fi password?

The printer might be using saved network settings, stuck in a previous connection state, or the driver/software may not be prompting for setup. Resetting network settings or reinstalling drivers usually helps.

Can I connect the printer using a USB cable instead?

Yes, connecting via USB is a reliable way to set up the printer initially. After successful setup, you can switch to wireless mode through the printer’s control panel or software.

Is WPS connection safe and recommended?

WPS is convenient but can have security vulnerabilities. Use WPS only if you trust your network environment and your router supports it.

How do I check if my printer firmware is up to date?

Visit Canon’s official website, look up your printer model, and download the latest firmware update tool. Follow the instructions to update your printer.

What if my Windows 11 PC does not detect the printer?

Make sure your PC and printer are on the same Wi-Fi network. Also, check for Windows updates and restart both devices.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and your Canon printer still does not ask for the Wi-Fi password or fails to connect, consider the following:

  • Contact Canon Support: Visit the official Canon Support page for personalized help.
  • Check your router settings: Some routers have security features that block new devices or require MAC address registration.
  • Factory reset the printer: As a last resort, perform a full factory reset to clear all settings. Refer to your printer’s manual for exact steps.
  • Try a different network: Temporarily connect the printer to another Wi-Fi network (like a mobile hotspot) to rule out router issues.

Conclusion

When your Canon printer doesn’t ask for the Wi-Fi password on Windows 11, it can be frustrating. However, by following simple steps like restarting devices, resetting network settings, using Canon’s setup app, or reinstalling drivers, you can usually fix the problem quickly.

Understanding why the printer skips the password prompt helps you troubleshoot more effectively. Always start with the easiest fixes and move to advanced options only if needed. Keeping your printer firmware and drivers updated also prevents many connectivity issues.

With patience and these clear instructions, your Canon printer should connect to Wi-Fi smoothly, allowing you to print wirelessly with ease.

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