In today’s digitized world, the demand for wireless printing solutions has become increasingly prevalent. One of the most popular printers for home and small office use, the Canon MG5520, offers excellent functionality and affordable printing options. However, many users often find themselves struggling to connect this device to WiFi. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of connecting your Canon MG5520 printer to WiFi in a manner that is easy to follow and understand.
Why Connect Your Canon MG5520 Printer to WiFi?
Before we delve into the connection process, let’s explore why connecting your Canon MG5520 printer to WiFi is beneficial:
- Wireless Convenience: Eliminate the clutter of cables and reduce your workspace’s clutter.
- Multiple Device Access: Print easily from various devices such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets without needing a physical connection.
What You Need Before You Start
To successfully connect your Canon MG5520 printer to WiFi, you will need the following:
1. Canon MG5520 Printer
Ensure your printer is set up and ready for use. Install the ink cartridges and ensure that you have paper loaded in the tray.
2. Wireless Network Connection
You will need access to a WiFi network. Make sure that you have the network name (SSID) and password ready before you begin.
3. Computer or Mobile Device
You can use either a computer or a mobile device to complete the connection process.
4. Canon Printer Software
Make sure you install the Canon printing software on your device. You can download it directly from the Canon website.
Step-by-Step Guide to Connecting Your Canon MG5520 Printer to WiFi
Now that you have everything you need, let’s jump into the detailed steps to connect your Canon MG5520 printer to WiFi.
Step 1: Prepare the Printer
Ensure that your printer is powered on. You will need to use the control panel located on the printer itself. Take the following actions:
- Press the Home button on the printer to access the main menu.
- Use the arrow keys to navigate to the Settings option and press OK.
Step 2: Select Wireless LAN Settings
Once you have accessed the settings, proceed to set up your wireless connection:
- Navigate to the Wireless LAN Setup option using the arrow keys and press OK.
- Choose Easy Setup by navigating and pressing OK again.
Step 3: Connect to Your WiFi Network
Now, you need to connect the printer to your WiFi network:
- The printer will automatically search for available networks. Once it completes the search, it will display a list of SSIDs (network names) on the screen.
- Use the arrow keys to scroll through the list to find your network name (SSID). When you find it, press OK.
- You will now be prompted to enter the WiFi password. Use the on-screen keyboard to input your password. Navigate between characters and confirm your selection. After entering the password, press OK.
Step 4: Confirm the Connection
Once the password has been entered, the printer will attempt to connect to the WiFi network. Follow these steps:
- A confirmation message will appear indicating whether the connection was successful.
- If the connection was successful, the printer will obtain an IP address, and you will see a checkmark on the display.
- If it fails, double-check the WiFi password and network settings. You may need to repeat the steps to re-enter the password correctly.
Step 5: Install the Printer Driver on Your Computer or Mobile Device
After successfully connecting your Canon MG5520 to WiFi, you’ll need to install the printer driver to allow your computer or mobile device to communicate effectively with your printer.
For Windows Users:
- Go to the Canon official website.
- Navigate to the support section.
- Select your printer model (Canon MG5520) and download the appropriate driver for your operating system.
- Once downloaded, run the installation and follow the prompts to complete the process.
- During installation, make sure to choose the Wireless Connection option when prompted, allowing your computer to recognize the printer over the WLAN.
For Mac Users:
- Similar to the Windows process, visit the Canon website.
- Download the appropriate driver for your Mac model.
- Open the downloaded file and follow the on-screen installation instructions.
- Choose the Wireless Connection option to complete the setup.
For Mobile Devices:
To print directly from your mobile device, you can use the Canon PRINT app:
- Download the Canon PRINT app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
- Open the app and follow the prompts to connect it to your printer.
- You may also need to allow the app access to your WiFi network.
Troubleshooting Common WiFi Connection Issues
Sometimes, users may face challenges during the connection process. Here are some common issues and their solutions:
1. Incorrect WiFi Password
Ensure you have entered the correct WiFi password. Double-check it and try re-entering.
2. Network Interference
Move your printer closer to the WiFi router to limit interference from walls or other electronic devices.
3. Printer Not Found
If your printer does not appear in the network settings, restart both your printer and WiFi router.
4. Firewall or Security Settings
Adjust any firewall or security software on your computer that might block connections.
Additional Tips for Printing with Canon MG5520
Once you have successfully connected your Canon MG5520 printer to WiFi, consider these additional tips for maximizing your printing experience:
1. Enable Automatic Updates
Keeping your printer’s firmware updated is crucial. Visit the Canon support site regularly or enable automatic updates through the Canon PRINT app.
2. Monitor Ink Levels
Use the printer’s display or the Canon app to monitor ink levels, ensuring that you are never caught off guard.
3. Use Genuine Canon Ink Cartridges
For the best print quality and to keep your printer in optimal condition, use only genuine Canon ink cartridges.
Conclusion
Connecting your Canon MG5520 printer to WiFi doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can enjoy the convenience and flexibility of wireless printing in no time. Remember to troubleshoot any issues you may encounter and take advantage of the additional tips for the best printing experience. With your Canon MG5520 successfully connected to WiFi, you can easily print from wherever you are, making it a handy tool in both your home and workspace. Enjoy seamless wireless printing!
What should I do if my Canon MG5520 printer won’t connect to WiFi?
If your Canon MG5520 printer is struggling to connect to WiFi, first ensure that your router is functioning properly. Check if other devices can connect to the same network without issues. If there’s a problem with the network, consider restarting your router and checking your internet connection. Make sure that the printer is within range of the router and there are no physical obstructions.
Next, try initiating the wireless setup process again. On the printer, navigate to the wireless settings and select the network name (SSID) for your WiFi. If prompted, ensure that you enter the correct WiFi password. If you have enabled MAC address filtering on your router, make sure to add your printer’s MAC address to the allowed list.
How can I reset the network settings on my Canon MG5520 printer?
To reset the network settings on your Canon MG5520 printer, start by accessing the printer’s control panel. Look for the ‘Setup’ or ‘Menu’ button, then navigate to the ‘Wireless’ settings. There should be an option for ‘Restore Network Settings’. Select this option, and confirm your choice when prompted, which will reset the WiFi settings back to the factory defaults.
After resetting, you will need to go through the process of connecting your printer to your network again. This will include selecting your WiFi network and entering the password, similar to the initial setup. This reset can help if there are persistent connectivity issues or if you’ve recently changed your network settings.
Can I connect my Canon MG5520 printer to a hidden WiFi network?
Yes, you can connect your Canon MG5520 printer to a hidden WiFi network, but the process involves a few extra steps compared to connecting to a visible network. First, ensure that you have the exact SSID (network name) and password for the hidden network. Hidden networks do not broadcast their SSID, so you will need this information to proceed.
To connect the printer, access the wireless settings on the Canon MG5520. Select the option to manually enter the SSID of your hidden network. After entering the SSID, input the WiFi password when prompted. Once everything is entered correctly, your printer should connect to the hidden network successfully.
What should I check if my printer is connected to WiFi but is still not printing?
If your Canon MG5520 printer is connected to WiFi but isn’t printing, start by reviewing the printer’s status on your computer or mobile device. Ensure that the printer is set as the default printer in your device settings. Sometimes documents can be stuck in the print queue, which might prevent new print jobs from processing. Clear any pending jobs and try sending a new print command.
Additionally, verify that the printer is online and not in sleep mode. You can do this by responding to the printer’s control panel to see if it is awake. Also, check if there are any error messages displayed on the printer’s screen, as these could indicate issues such as low ink levels or paper jams, which might prevent printing.
Can I use a USB connection if I have trouble connecting to WiFi?
Yes, if you’re facing issues connecting your Canon MG5520 printer to WiFi, you can temporarily use a USB connection. This is a straightforward method that allows you to print while you work on resolving the wireless connection issue. To do this, simply connect your printer to your computer using a USB cable; the setup usually recognizes the printer automatically.
Once you’re able to print using the USB connection, you can then focus on diagnosing and fixing the WiFi connection problem. You can follow the steps detailed in the guide or consult Canon’s support for more assistance on reconnecting your printer wirelessly.
Is there an app to help manage my Canon MG5520 printer?
Yes, Canon offers a mobile application called Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY that allows you to manage your Canon MG5520 printer. This app is available for both iOS and Android devices, enabling you to print photos and documents directly from your mobile device, monitor ink levels, and manage print settings. Using the app can simplify the printing process and provide additional functionality.
To get started, download the Canon PRINT app from your device’s app store, and make sure your printer is connected to the same WiFi network as your mobile device. Once installed, follow the prompts in the app to connect it to your printer. This connection will allow you to access various features conveniently from your smartphone or tablet.
What is the maximum distance a Canon MG5520 printer can be from the WiFi router?
The effective range for a Canon MG5520 printer operating on a wireless network is generally similar to other wireless devices, typically around 150 feet (about 45 meters) indoors and up to 300 feet (about 90 meters) outdoors, depending on the environment and the strength of your router’s signal. Physical obstructions such as walls, furniture, and other electronic devices can impact the connectivity rate and distance.
For optimal performance, it is advised to place the printer within a reasonable distance of the router, ideally in the same room. If you find that the printer is losing connection frequently, consider moving it closer to the router or using WiFi extenders to improve signal strength in your area.