How to Fix Canon Printer Offline Error? (Tutorial Steps)
- Karen Boccino
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
A Canon printer may go offline for many reasons, including network or connection issues, software problems, outdated printer drivers, or an overloaded print queue. Signs of an offline Canon printer include displaying “offline” error messages on the screen or computer. In some cases, the wireless light on the printer either stops flashing in a solid color or starts blinking. This problem is quite common, but the good news is that you can fix it by following the troubleshooting methods mentioned below.
I am a graphic designer and often print various designs from my Canon printer. Over time, I have learned most things about Canon printers, and fixing the offline error is one of them. In this guide, I will help you get your printer back online smoothly.
Method 1: Check Connections
Check if the USB cable connects properly to both the printer and the computer. Even with a wired setup, the printer goes offline when the cable is loose or not plugged in correctly, so tighten it securely if needed.
For wireless setups, make sure the printer and your computer use the same Wi-Fi network. If they are not on the same network, the printer will appear offline. Also, if you’ve changed your Wi-Fi password, you need to reconnect the devices to the network.
Method 2: Restart Devices
If the Canon printer shows an offline status, restarting the devices can fix the issue. Sometimes, technical issues cause the printer to go offline. Use the steps here to restart the printer and the computer.
Step 1: Restart the Printing Device
Press and hold the power button on the printer until the light turns off.
Disconnect the printer’s power cable from the wall outlet.
After 30 seconds, connect the printer’s cable to the main power switch.
Finally, press and hold the power button until the light turns solid, indicating the printer is on.
Step 2: Restart the Computer
Go to the Windows icon at the bottom of the PC’s screen.
Click the power button, then choose the Restart option to reboot your computer.
After restarting the devices, check if the printer still shows an offline status.
Method 3: Set as Default Printer
A default printer is the one the computer recognizes. If your printer is not set as a default device, it will not respond properly or print anything. Here are the steps to set it as a default printer.
Click the Windows icon on the computer’s screen at the bottom and search for Settings.
Click Bluetooth & Devices, and then select Printers & Scanners.
Uncheck the box for “Let Windows manage my default printer.”
Now, find and choose your printer model from the list.
Finally, click the “Set as Default” option to make your printer the default one.
Once your device is set as the default, the offline error should disappear.
Method 4: Reinstall Printer Drivers
Printer drivers are the software that manages the communication between the printer and the computer. If they are out of date, the printer stops responding to the print jobs. In this situation, you can update or reinstall this software using the steps below.
Visit Canon’s official website ij.start.canon on your browser.
After that, select Support at the top section of the website.
Type your printer’s model name in the search bar and select the printer from the list.
Select “Software & Drivers” next to your printer model.
Select your operating system, and then select a suitable printer driver package.
Click the Download button next to a suitable driver package.
Let the file download to your computer, then open the Downloads folder.
Double-click on the driver’s file and click Yes to allow it to run on the computer.
After the installation finishes, check whether your printer still shows as offline.
Final Words
In short, a Canon printer may show as an offline status due to connection issues, outdated printer drivers, not being set as the default, and more. The good news is that you can resolve this issue by checking the connections, restarting your devices, setting the printer as the default, or reinstalling the drivers. Once the printer is back online, it won’t show any errors, and the wireless light will start flashing again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is My Canon Printer Showing Offline?
A Canon printer may show as offline if the connection is unstable or if it isn’t set as the default printer on your computer. Out-of-date printer drivers are also a major reason behind an offline error on Canon printers.
What Are the Signs of an Offline Canon Printer?
Signs of an offline printer include not responding to print commands or any task. It may also display an “offline” error on the screen. If your printer is linked to a Wi-Fi network, the Wi-Fi light may suddenly turn off, indicating that the printer has lost connection.
How Do I Get My Canon Printer Back Online?
To get your printer back online, verify its connections, whether wired or wireless, and check if it is set as the default printing device. If not, then set it as one. Also, you have to reinstall the important printer driver software and restart the printer and your computer to resolve minor technical issues.
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