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Canon Printer Not Scanning: Troubleshooting Guide

Author: Robert Jacy
by Robert Jacy
Posted: Jul 24, 2025

If your Canon printer won't scan, check the connection between your printer and computer or device. Ensure scanning software and drivers are correctly installed and up to date. Restart the printer and device, and verify that the scanner is selected as default. Network issues can also affect scanning functionality.Click Here: Contact With Canon Printer Support

[Dial +1-801-878-6858 USA]

Troubleshooting Guide: Canon Printer Won't Scan – Why and How to Fix It

A Canon printer is a reliable device that often combines printing, copying, and scanning functionalities in one. However, it can be incredibly frustrating when the Canon printer won’t scan — especially when you need to digitize important documents. This issue can be caused by various factors including software conflicts, poor network connectivity, outdated drivers, or improper settings.

Why Is My Canon Printer Not Scanning?

Understanding the reasons behind this issue is the first step in resolving it. Below are the most common causes:

1. Connection Issues (USB or Wi-Fi)

If the Canon printer is not properly connected to your computer or network, scanning functionality won’t work.

2. Outdated or Missing Drivers

Your computer might lack the appropriate drivers or software to support scanning, especially after an OS update.

3. Incorrect Scanner Settings

Wrong configurations or selecting the wrong device in scan software may prevent scanning.

4. Disabled Windows Services

Certain services like Windows Image Acquisition (WIA) are essential for scanning. If disabled, the scanner will not function.

5. Software Conflicts

Third-party antivirus, firewall software, or multiple installed scanning applications can create conflicts.

6. Canon IJ Scan Utility Not Installed

Canon’s official scanning tool must be installed for the device to function optimally.

7. Faulty USB Cable or Wireless Signal

A damaged cable or poor wireless strength can interrupt communication between the scanner and the computer.

How to Fix Canon Printer Won’t Scan

Now that we understand the causes, let’s fix the issue. Follow these steps in order for the best results.

1. Check Physical and Network Connection
  • For USB: Ensure the USB cable is properly connected and not damaged.

  • For Wi-Fi: Verify that both the printer and the computer are on the same Wi-Fi network.

  • Use the printer’s network settings or connection report to verify connectivity.

2. Restart All Devices

Power cycle your printer, computer, and router:

  1. Turn off the printer and unplug it.

  2. Restart your computer.

  3. Restart your Wi-Fi router.

  4. Plug in the printer and turn it on.

  5. Try scanning again.

3. Install or Update Canon Drivers

Outdated or missing drivers are the most common reason for scanning failure.

  • Visit ij.start.canon

  • Enter your printer model (e.g., Canon PIXMA MG3620).

  • Download and install the latest driver and Canon IJ Scan Utility.

  • Restart your computer after installation.

4. Use the Canon IJ Scan Utility
  • Search for "IJ Scan Utility" on your computer.

  • Open the tool and select Document or Photo Scan.

  • This utility is designed for seamless scanning and helps avoid compatibility issues.

If it’s not installed, download it from Canon’s website.

5. Set Canon as Default Scanner

On Windows:

  1. Go to Control Panel> Devices and Printers.

  2. Right-click your Canon device and select Set as Default Scanner.

On macOS:

  1. Open System Preferences> Printers & Scanners.

  2. Select your Canon printer and check if it is set for scanning.

6. Enable Windows Image Acquisition (WIA) Service

This service is crucial for scanning in Windows.

  1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.

  2. Find Windows Image Acquisition (WIA).

  3. Right-click> Properties> Set Startup type to Automatic.

  4. Click Start if the service is not already running.

7. Temporarily Disable Antivirus/Firewall

Firewalls or antivirus programs can block communication with the scanner.

  • Temporarily disable them and try scanning.

  • If it works, allow Canon IJ Scan Utility through the firewall settings.

  • Always re-enable your antivirus/firewall afterward.

8. Use an Alternative Scanning Method (Image Capture or Windows Fax and Scan) On Windows:
  • Use Windows Fax and Scan (Search in Start Menu).

  • Choose New Scan and select your Canon printer.

On Mac:
  • Use the built-in Image Capture app.

  • Select your Canon scanner and try scanning.

9. Re-add the Printer

Removing and re-adding your printer can refresh the connection.

On Windows:
  1. Go to Settings> Devices> Printers & Scanners.

  2. Remove your Canon device and add it again.

On macOS:
  1. Open System Preferences> Printers & Scanners.

  2. Select and remove the Canon printer.

  3. Click the + button and re-add it.

10. Factory Reset the Canon Printer

If all else fails, reset the printer:

  1. Press the Setup or Menu button.

  2. Navigate to Device Settings> Reset Setting.

  3. Choose Reset All and confirm.

  4. Reconnect your printer and try scanning again.

  • Note: This will erase saved Wi-Fi and printer settings.
FAQs About Canon Printer Not Scanning Q1: Why is my Canon printer connected but not scanning?

Answer: This could be due to outdated drivers, firewall restrictions, wrong device settings, or connection issues. Updating drivers and using Canon IJ Scan Utility often fixes this.

Q2: My Canon scanner works via USB but not wirelessly. Why?

Answer: Wireless scanning requires the printer and computer to be on the same Wi-Fi network. Ensure strong signal strength and use Canon’s IJ Network Scanner Selector EX tool to enable the scanner.

Q3: How do I scan from my Canon printer to my computer?

Answer:

  1. Install Canon IJ Scan Utility.

  2. Place the document on the scanner bed.

  3. Launch the utility and select Document Scan.

  4. The scanned file will be saved to your default folder.

Q4: Why doesn’t my Mac detect the Canon scanner?

Answer: This could be due to compatibility issues or a missing driver. Ensure your macOS is updated and reinstall Canon drivers and software. Try using Image Capture to scan.

Q5: What should I do if IJ Scan Utility won’t open?

Answer: Reinstall the utility from Canon’s official site. Also, ensure your printer is properly connected and recognized in Devices and Printers or Printers & Scanners.

Q6: Is there a mobile app to scan from Canon printers?

Answer: Yes, Canon provides the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app for Android and iOS. You can scan, print, and manage your printer directly from your smartphone.

Q7: Can I scan without installing any Canon software?

Answer: Yes, you can use Windows Fax and Scan, Image Capture (Mac), or third-party apps, but using Canon’s official software ensures better compatibility and features.

Conclusion

If your Canon printer won’t scan, don’t worry — the issue is usually easy to fix with the right steps. Start by checking your connections and updating your drivers. Tools like Canon IJ Scan Utility are your best bet for hassle-free scanning. In rare cases, a factory reset may be needed to restore full functionality.

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Author: Robert Jacy

Robert Jacy

Member since: Jul 21, 2025
Published articles: 10

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