Canon Printer Offline? Here’s How to Fix It on Mac & Windows

If you're trying to print a document and your Canon printer keeps showing as "offline," you're not alone. This is a common issue faced by many users and can be both frustrating and confusing. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to get your Canon printer back online and running smoothly again.

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In this guide, we’ll walk you through the causes of the "Canon printer offline" message and provide effective troubleshooting methods to resolve the issue. If you need immediate assistance, feel free to call our Canon support line at 1-801-878-6858.

What Does "Printer Offline" Mean?

When your Canon printer is labeled as "offline," it means that your computer is unable to communicate with the printer. This could be due to a number of reasons including network connectivity issues, outdated drivers, settings errors, or hardware malfunctions.

Common Causes of Canon Printer Going Offline

• Loose or unplugged cables
• Wi-Fi disconnection or unstable connection
• Outdated or corrupted printer drivers
• Incorrect printer settings
• Windows or macOS bugs or glitches
• Multiple printers installed with similar names
• Pending print jobs causing a freeze

Once you’ve identified the likely cause, you can start troubleshooting accordingly.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fix Canon Printer Offline

1. Check Physical Connections

   Ensure your Canon printer is properly connected to your computer or network.

   • For USB: Make sure the cable is securely plugged into both printer and computer.
   • For wireless printers: Check if connected to your Wi-Fi network.
   • Power cycle the printer by turning it off, unplugging for a few minutes, then plugging it back in and restarting.
2. Set the Canon Printer as Default

   Sometimes, your computer may try to connect to the wrong printer.

   • On Windows: Go to Control Panel → Devices and Printers → Right-click your Canon printer → Set as default printer.
   • On Mac: Open System Preferences → Printers & Scanners → Select your Canon printer → Set as Default.
3. Restart the Print Spooler Service (Windows Only)

   The Print Spooler manages print jobs. If frozen, your printer may appear offline.

   • Press Win + R → type services.msc → press Enter.
   • Scroll to Print Spooler → Right-click → Restart.
4. Remove and Reinstall the Printer

   Reinstalling can fix configuration errors.

   • On Windows: Go to Devices and Printers → Remove device → Add a printer again.
   • On Mac: Open Printers & Scanners → Remove printer (−) → Add again (+).
5. Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers

   Outdated drivers often cause offline errors.

   • On Windows: Open Device Manager → Printers → Right-click Canon printer → Update driver → Search automatically.
   • Or download latest drivers from Canon’s official website.
   • On Mac: Go to System Preferences → Software Update to install latest updates.
6. Check the Printer Status on Canon Software

   Use Canon utilities like Canon IJ Network Tool or Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY.

   Launch the software and follow prompts to reconnect if shown offline.

7. Disable "Use Printer Offline" Mode (Windows)

   Go to Control Panel → Devices and Printers → Right-click Canon printer → See what’s printing → Printer menu → Uncheck "Use Printer Offline."

8. Reset Network Settings (Wireless Printers)

   Resetting network settings can restore Wi-Fi communication.

   • Press Menu → Device Settings → Reset Settings → LAN Settings Only.
   • Reconnect printer to Wi-Fi using Wireless LAN Setup.
9. Check for IP Address Conflicts

   Print a Network Configuration Page → Verify IP address matches your computer’s printer settings. Assign a static IP if conflicts occur.

10. Firewall or Antivirus Blocking Printer

    Sometimes, firewalls or antivirus block communication. Temporarily disable and test again. If it works, add printer as a trusted device.

Still Stuck? Call Canon Printer Support at 1-801-878-6858

If none of the above methods worked, our certified Canon experts are available 24/7 to assist you with setup, connectivity, or software issues. Call now for one-on-one troubleshooting.

Pro Tips to Prevent Canon Printer from Going Offline

• Keep printer firmware and drivers updated.
• Use a stable Wi-Fi or wired connection.
• Avoid turning off the printer during active print jobs.
• Clear old print jobs regularly.
• Place the printer close to your Wi-Fi router for stronger signal.

Conclusion

A Canon printer showing as offline can disrupt your workflow, but the problem is usually easy to fix. From checking cables to resetting network settings, these methods should restore your printer online quickly. For expert help, call Canon support anytime at 1-801-878-6858.

FAQs

• How do I get my Canon printer to go back online?

  Check connection, restart printer, and ensure "Use Printer Offline" is unchecked. Update drivers and restart print spooler if needed.

• Why is my Canon printer showing offline?

  It may be due to Wi-Fi issues, outdated drivers, or incorrect settings like "Use Printer Offline" being enabled.

• How do I reconnect my Canon printer to the internet?

  On your printer, go to Settings → Wireless LAN Setup → Choose Wi-Fi network → Enter password.

• Will my Canon printer work with Windows 11?

  Yes, most Canon models are compatible. Visit Canon’s website for Windows 11 drivers.

• How do I reboot my Canon printer?

  Turn it off, unplug for 30 seconds, then plug it back in and power on.

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