First check the power, connection, USB cable or Wi-Fi status, and make sure that the printer has no error prompts; 2. Run the built-in printer troubleshooting tool for Windows to automatically fix the problem; 3. Make sure that the printer is not marked as "offline", and if it is offline, cancel the "Use Printer Offline" option; 4. If it still cannot be detected, manually add the printer and select the correct port and driver type; 5. Install the latest driver through Windows update or download and install the latest driver from Canon official website to avoid using third-party websites; 6. Check and start the printing background processing service, and clear the stuck printing task if necessary; 7. Try to connect the printer to other devices to determine whether the problem lies with the PC itself; finally restart the printer and computer, reconfigure the wireless settings and keep the system updated, and most problems can be solved.

If your Windows PC isn't detecting your Canon printer, it can be frustrating—especially when you need to print something urgent. The issue could stem from connectivity, drivers, or system settings. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you troubleshoot and fix the problem.

1. Check the Basics First

Before diving into complex fixes, rule out simple issues:

• Power and connection : Make sure your Canon printer is turned on and properly connected.
  • For USB printers : Ensure the USB cable is firmly plugged into both the printer and PC. Try a different USB port or cable.
  • For wireless printers : Confirm the printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your PC. Check the printer's display for network status.
• Printer status : Look for error lights or messages on the printer's display (like paper jam, low ink, or offline mode).

2. Run the Windows Printer Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in tool that can automatically detect and fix common printer problems.

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot .
2. Click on Printer under "Find and fix other problems".
3. Run the troubleshooter and follow the on-screen instructions.

This often resolves driver or service-related issues.

3. Make Sure the Printer Is Not Offline

Sometimes Windows marks the printer as "offline" even when it's not.

1. Press Windows I to open Settings.
2. Go to Devices > Printers & scanners .
3. Find your Canon printer in the list.
4. If it says "Offline", click on it and select Open queue , then look for an option to "See what's printing" .
5. Uncheck "Use Printer Offline" if it's enabled.

If the printer doesn't appear at all, proceed to the next step.

4. Add the Printer Manually

If Windows doesn't detect it automatically:

1. In Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners , click Add a printer or scanner .
2. Wait a moment, then click "The printer that I want isn't listed" .
3. Choose:
   • "Add a local printer or network printer with manual settings" — for USB.
   • "Add a printer using a TCP/IP address or hostname" — for wireless (use printer's IP if known).
4. Follow the prompts to install the correct port and driver.

5. Install or Reinstall Canon Printer Drivers

Outdated or missing drivers are a common cause.

• Option A: Use Windows Update

  • In the "Add a printer" wizard, Windows may download the driver automatically.

• Option B: Download from Canon's Website

  1. Visit Canon Support .
  2. Enter your printer model (eg, PIXMA MG3620 ).
  3. Download the latest driver software for your Windows version.
  4. Run the installer and follow the steps.

?? Avoid third-party driver sites—they may contain malware.

6. Check Printer Spooler Service

The Print Spooler service must be running.

1. Press Windows R , type services.msc , and press Enter.
2. Scroll down to Print Spooler .
3. If it's not running, right-click and select Start .
4. Set its Startup type to Automatic .

You can also clear stuck print jobs:

• Stop the service.
• Go to C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS and delete all files.
• Restart the Print Spooler service.

7. Try on Another PC or Device

To determine if the issue is with your PC or the printer:

• Connect the printer to another computer via USB.
• Or try printing from a phone/tablet using Canon PRINT app.

If it works elsewhere, the problem is with your PC's setup.

Final Tips

• Restart both your printer and PC —this fixes many temporary glitches.
• For wireless printers, reconfigure Wi-Fi settings on the printer itself (sometimes a router reset breaks the connection).
• Keep your Windows updated—some updates include better device support.

Basically, start simple and work your way up. Most Canon printer detection issues on Windows come down to a loose cable, offline status, or outdated driver. With a little patience, you'll likely have it printing again in no time.

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