How to Fix Canon Printer Not Encrypted Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

If you are using a Canon printer on Windows 11 and encounter the “Not Encrypted” error, it can interrupt your printing tasks and cause frustration.

This error usually relates to security settings that affect communication between your computer and the printer.

Fortunately, fixing this issue is straightforward if you follow the right steps carefully.

In this article, we will guide you through simple, step-by-step solutions to resolve the Canon printer “Not Encrypted” error on Windows 11.

Quick Note: Before You Begin

Ensure your Windows 11 system is up to date with the latest updates installed.
Make sure your Canon printer is properly connected to your computer or network.
Check that your printer drivers are installed correctly and are the latest versions.
Restart your computer and printer to clear any temporary glitches before trying the steps below.

Step 1: Check Your Printer Connection and Network Settings

Sometimes the “Not Encrypted” error appears because your printer is not properly connected or the network security settings are not compatible.

Verify the printer is powered on and connected via USB cable or Wi-Fi.
If using Wi-Fi, make sure your printer is connected to the same network as your Windows 11 PC.
Open the Control Panel by typing Control Panel in the Windows search bar and selecting it.
Go to Devices and Printers and find your Canon printer.
Right-click on the printer and select Printer properties.
Under the Ports tab, ensure the correct port is selected, such as the IP address of your printer if on a network.

This step ensures your system is communicating with the right device, which is critical for encryption settings to apply correctly.

Step 2: Update or Reinstall Canon Printer Drivers

Outdated or corrupted printer drivers can cause encryption errors because they may not support Windows 11 security protocols fully.

Visit the official Canon support website.
Search for your printer model and download the latest Windows 11 compatible drivers.
On your PC, open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
Select your Canon printer and click Remove device to uninstall it.
Run the downloaded driver installer and follow the on-screen instructions to reinstall the printer.

Updating drivers ensures that your printer software aligns with the latest security practices and Windows 11 features.

Step 3: Adjust Windows Defender Firewall Settings

Windows Defender Firewall might block secure communication with your printer, causing the “Not Encrypted” error.

Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog, type control firewall.cpl, and press Enter.
Click on Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall on the left panel.
Scroll through the list to find any Canon-related applications or services.
Make sure both Private and Public checkboxes are checked.
If you don’t see your printer or Canon software, click Allow another app… to add it manually.
Click OK to save changes and then restart your computer.

Allowing your printer through the firewall ensures encrypted data can pass securely without interruption.

Step 4: Verify Encryption Settings in Printer Properties

Some Canon printers and Windows 11 have settings that enforce encryption for data transfer. Checking these can fix mismatches causing the error.

Open Devices and Printers again from the Control Panel.
Right-click your Canon printer and select Printer properties.
Go to the Advanced tab, then click Printing Defaults or similar option.
Look for security or encryption settings. If available, ensure encryption is enabled or set to match your network’s security.
Apply changes and try printing a test page.

Setting encryption preferences correctly allows your printer to communicate securely and prevents errors.

Alternative Method: Use Canon’s Official Troubleshooting Tool

Canon provides a diagnostic tool that can automatically find and fix many printer problems including encryption errors.

Visit the Canon support site and download the Canon Print Diagnostic Tool for Windows.
Run the tool and follow the on-screen instructions.
The tool will scan for issues and suggest fixes or apply them automatically.

This can save time and effort, especially if you are unsure about manual settings.

FAQs

Why does my Canon printer show a “Not Encrypted” error?

This error occurs when there’s a mismatch or failure in the security settings that protect data between your computer and printer. It usually involves network encryption or driver compatibility issues.

Is it safe to disable encryption to fix this error?

Disabling encryption is not recommended as it compromises data security. Instead, fix the underlying cause by updating drivers or adjusting settings.

Can antivirus software cause this error?

Yes, some antivirus or firewall software may block encrypted communication. Temporarily disabling them or adding exceptions for your printer can help.

Will reinstalling Windows 11 fix the issue?

Reinstalling Windows is usually unnecessary. Most issues can be resolved by driver updates or configuration changes.

Does this issue only happen on Windows 11?

While more common on Windows 11 due to stricter security, similar errors can occur on other Windows versions if drivers or settings are incompatible.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and still face the “Not Encrypted” error, consider the following final options:

Contact Canon customer support for assistance specific to your printer model.
Visit the official Microsoft support website for Windows 11 printer troubleshooting guidance.
Check online forums like Canon Community or Microsoft Answers for others with similar issues and solutions.
Consider resetting your printer to factory defaults and setting it up again from scratch.

These resources can provide expert help when basic fixes do not resolve the problem.

Conclusion

The Canon printer “Not Encrypted” error on Windows 11 is often due to driver issues, network settings, or firewall blocks. By carefully checking your printer connection, updating drivers, adjusting firewall permissions, and verifying encryption options, you can restore smooth and secure printing.

Remember to start with simple checks and progress to more advanced troubleshooting only if necessary. Using Canon’s diagnostic tools and official support channels can also provide quick resolution.

Following these clear, step-by-step instructions will help you fix the error efficiently and get your Canon printer working securely on Windows 11 again.