As technology continues to advance, having a reliable printer at home has become increasingly important. One of the leading solutions in this space is the Canon MG3520 wireless printer, which combines the convenience of wireless printing with high-quality results. If you’re wondering how to connect your Canon MG3520 wireless printer to your home network, you’re in the right place! This comprehensive guide will take you through the entire process step by step.
Understanding Your Canon MG3520 Wireless Printer
Before diving into the connection process, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the Canon MG3520 features and functionalities. This all-in-one printer not only prints but also scans and copies documents effortlessly.
Key Features of the Canon MG3520:
- Wireless printing capability
- Compact design suitable for home offices
- Supports various paper sizes
- Mobile printing options through Canon PRINT app
- Automatic duplex printing
Having an understanding of its capabilities will allow you to maximize the usage of your Canon MG3520 and ensure that you are set up correctly for seamless wireless printing.
Preparing for the Connection
Before you can connect your printer to the network, you need to gather some essential information and prepare your equipment.
1. Gather Required Information
To set up your Canon MG3520 printer wirelessly, you’ll need:
- Your Wi-Fi network name (SSID)
- Your Wi-Fi password
Make sure to keep this information handy as you will need it during the setup process.
2. Unbox and Position Your Printer
Ensure that your printer is unboxed, properly placed on a flat surface, and close to your wireless router. The optimal distance will help facilitate better connection strength during the setup process.
3. Power On the Printer
Make sure your Canon MG3520 is plugged into a power source, and press the power button to turn it on. The printer should show a light indicating that it is ready for connection.
Connecting Your Canon MG3520 Wireless Printer
The Canon MG3520 can be wirelessly connected using two primary methods: the WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) method and the Standard setup method. We will cover both options for your convenience.
Method 1: WPS Connection
If your router supports WPS, this method is quick and straightforward.
Steps to Connect via WPS:
- Make sure WPS is enabled on your wireless router.
- On your Canon MG3520, press the Wi-Fi button on the operation panel. The Wi-Fi indicator will start to flash.
- Hold down the WPS button on your router until the WPS light begins to flash.
- Then, return to your printer and press the Color button to start the connection process. The Wi-Fi light will continue to flash during the connection.
- Once the connection is established, both the Wi-Fi indicator and the blue lamp will be lit. Your printer is now connected to your network!
Method 2: Standard Setup
If your router does not support WPS, you can connect your printer using the standard setup procedure.
Steps for Standard Setup:
- Make sure your printer is powered on.
- Press the Wi-Fi button on the control panel, and it will start flashing.
- Now, press the Black button or the Color button depending on your preference.
- Choose Standard setup from the displayed options.
- From the list of available networks, select your Wi-Fi network name (SSID).
- Enter your Wi-Fi password when prompted, using the printer’s control panel.
- Once the printer is successfully connected, the Wi-Fi lamp will remain lit.
Installing Drivers and Software
Once your Canon MG3520 printer is connected to the wireless network, the next step is installing the necessary drivers and software on your computer.
Installing the Canon Printer Driver
- Go to the official Canon support page for the MG3520 printer.
- Select your operating system (Windows or macOS).
- Download the most recent version of the printer driver software.
- Open the downloaded file and follow the installation prompts.
Connecting the Printer to Your Computer
During the driver installation process, you will be prompted to configure the connection type.
- Select Wireless Connection when given the option.
- Your computer will search for the printer on the network.
- Once found, select your Canon MG3520 and complete the setup.
You can also confirm successful installation by printing a test page.
Troubleshooting Common Connection Issues
While setting up your Canon MG3520 should be straightforward, you may encounter a few common issues. Here are some tips to troubleshoot:
Issue 1: Printer Is Not Found
- Check your network: Ensure the printer and the computer are connected to the same network.
- Restart Devices: Restart your router, printer, and computer to refresh the connection.
Issue 2: Weak Signal
If your connection drops frequently, consider moving your printer closer to the router or using a Wi-Fi extender.
Issue 3: Incorrect Password Entry
Re-enter the Wi-Fi password carefully as it is case-sensitive.
Printer Not Responding
If the printer does not respond to print commands, check whether it’s still connected to the Wi-Fi network using the printer’s LCD screen.
Using Your Canon MG3520 with Mobile Devices
One of the key benefits of owning the Canon MG3520 is its compatibility with mobile devices.
1. Download the Canon PRINT App
To print from your smartphone or tablet, download the Canon PRINT app available on both iOS and Android platforms.
2. Connect Your Mobile Device
Ensure that your mobile device is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your printer. Open the app and follow the prompts to connect to your printer.
You will have the option to scan documents directly from your device, making it a versatile tool for productivity.
Conclusion
Connecting your Canon MG3520 wireless printer to your home network doesn’t have to be a complicated task. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you will be able to set up your printer in no time, allowing you to print high-quality documents, photos, and more.
Remember to keep your printer’s software updated to enjoy the latest features and fixes. With your Canon MG3520 successfully connected, you can turn any task into an effortless experience, fostering a more productive environment at home or in your office. Happy printing!
How do I set up my Canon MG3520 wireless printer for the first time?
To set up your Canon MG3520 wireless printer for the first time, begin by unpacking the printer and removing any protective materials. Next, insert the ink cartridges that came with the printer into their respective slots, ensuring they are securely in place. Connect the printer to a power source and turn it on. You’ll need to configure the initial settings, including language and region.
After powering on the printer, use the control panel to navigate to the wireless setup option. You can select the WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) method if your router supports it. If not, use the ‘Wireless LAN Setup’ option and follow the instructions on the screen to input your Wi-Fi network’s SSID and password. Once successfully connected, you can proceed with printer driver installation on your computer or mobile device.
What do I need to connect my Canon MG3520 to Wi-Fi?
To connect your Canon MG3520 to Wi-Fi, you need a few essential items. First, ensure that you have a wireless router that provides a stable internet connection. Additionally, you will need access to your Wi-Fi network’s SSID (network name) and password, as these will be required during the setup process.
Furthermore, having the Canon printer driver installed on your computer or mobile device will facilitate the connection. You can download the drivers from the Canon website. Once you have everything ready, you can follow the on-screen instructions to complete the wireless setup successfully.
Can I print from my smartphone or tablet to the Canon MG3520?
Yes, you can print from your smartphone or tablet to the Canon MG3520. Canon offers a mobile printing application called Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY, which is available for both Android and iOS devices. After downloading the app, ensure that your mobile device is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your printer.
Once the app is installed, open it, and follow the prompts to connect to your printer. You can then select documents, photos, or web pages for printing directly from your device. The app also allows you to manage your print settings and check ink levels, making printing on the go seamless and convenient.
What should I do if my Canon MG3520 is not connecting to Wi-Fi?
If your Canon MG3520 is not connecting to Wi-Fi, the first step is to check your network connection. Ensure that your router is functioning properly and that other devices can connect to the Wi-Fi network. If possible, try restarting your router to refresh the connection.
In addition, check for any error messages displayed on the printer’s control panel. Ensure that you are entering the correct SSID and password when prompted during setup. If issues persist, you might consider resetting your printer’s network settings and attempting the connection process again. Consulting the printer’s manual for specific troubleshooting steps can also be beneficial.
How can I check the ink levels on my Canon MG3520?
To check the ink levels on your Canon MG3520, you can use either the printer control panel or your computer. If you’re using the control panel, press the ‘Home’ button followed by the ‘Setup’ button. Navigate to the ‘Ink Level’ option and select it to view the ink status of each cartridge.
Alternatively, you can check the ink levels through your computer by accessing the Canon printer software. Open the utility application that came with the printer, and look for an option that displays ink or cartridge levels. Regularly checking your ink levels can prevent print errors and interruptions in your printing tasks.
How do I update the drivers for my Canon MG3520?
To update the drivers for your Canon MG3520, the first step is to visit the official Canon support website. Search for your printer model, and you will find a section for drivers and downloads. Ensure that you select the driver that is compatible with your operating system (Windows or Mac).
Once you have downloaded the latest driver version, run the installation file and follow the on-screen instructions. It may prompt you to either repair the existing installation or completely uninstall it. After applying the update, restart your computer to ensure the drivers are correctly loaded. This ensures that your printer functions correctly and benefits from any enhancements or fixes provided by the update.
Is it possible to print without a network connection?
Yes, it is possible to print without a network connection using the Canon MG3520 by utilizing a direct USB connection. You can connect the printer directly to your computer using a USB cable, which allows for quick and straightforward printing. This method does not require a Wi-Fi connection and can be especially useful if you’re experiencing connectivity issues.
Another option is to use the Canon PRINT app in conjunction with a mobile device that supports Wi-Fi Direct. This feature allows your smartphone or tablet to connect directly to the printer without needing an intermediary Wi-Fi network. By enabling Wi-Fi Direct in your printer settings and connecting your mobile device, you can easily print documents and photos.
What to do if I encounter a printing error with my Canon MG3520?
If you encounter a printing error with your Canon MG3520, the first step is to check for any error messages displayed on the printer’s control panel. Common issues include paper jams, low ink levels, or connectivity problems. Opening the printer’s manual can provide specific guidance on troubleshooting these issues based on the displayed error code.
If the problem persists after addressing the initial issues, try restarting the printer and your device. For connectivity issues, ensure that both devices are connected to the same network and that your Wi-Fi signal is strong. If necessary, reinstall the printer drivers to resolve any software-related problems, and consult Canon’s online support for more in-depth troubleshooting steps.