When it comes to setting up and using Canon printers, downloading the correct printer drivers for your operating system is crucial. Printer drivers serve as the communication link between your computer or mobile device and the printer, ensuring that print jobs are correctly processed. This comprehensive guide walks you through the steps to download Canon printer drivers on Windows, Mac, and Chromebook, along with troubleshooting tips, installation procedures, and some useful maintenance advice.

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Why Do You Need Canon Printer Drivers?

A printer driver is essential software that facilitates communication between your Canon printer and your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Chrome OS). Without the correct drivers, your printer won’t be able to process print jobs effectively, and you might experience issues like incomplete prints, slow printing, or even printer detection errors.

Here are the main reasons why you need Canon printer drivers:

  • Compatibility: Ensures that your printer can communicate with the latest version of your operating system.
  • Full Functionality: Activates all of your printer's features (e.g., scanning, double-sided printing, etc.).
  • Improved Performance: Updated drivers fix bugs, enhance performance, and add new features.
  • Troubleshooting Support: Helps resolve issues such as connectivity problems, printer not detected, or poor print quality.

Section 1: Downloading Canon Printer Drivers on Windows

Step 1: Visit Canon's Official Website

To download the correct printer driver for Windows, follow these steps:

  1. Open your web browser and go to Canon’s official support website.
  2. Search for your printer model in the search bar. You can enter the model name or number to find your printer. For example, if you own a Canon PIXMA printer, type “PIXMA” followed by the specific model number (e.g., PIXMA G6020).
  3. Select your printer model from the search results to be directed to the driver download page.

Step 2: Select Your Operating System

Once on your printer model’s support page:

  1. Scroll down and find the “Drivers & Downloads” section.
  2. Choose your operating system (e.g., Windows 10, Windows 11) from the drop-down menu.
  3. Ensure you are selecting the correct bit version (32-bit or 64-bit) of your operating system.

Step 3: Download and Install the Driver

  1. In the “Drivers & Downloads” section, you will see a list of available drivers. For most users, the “Full Driver & Software Package” is recommended, as it includes both the printer driver and other useful software (like Canon utilities for scanning and photo management).
  2. Click “Download” to start the download process.
  3. Once the file is downloaded, open it, and the installation wizard will guide you through the setup process. Follow the on-screen instructions:
    • Accept the license agreement.
    • Choose your installation type (Typical installation is recommended for most users).
    • Connect your Canon printer to your computer when prompted (via USB, Wi-Fi, or Ethernet).
  4. Once installation is complete, you can print a test page to verify the driver installation.

Troubleshooting Canon Printer Drivers on Windows

  • Printer Not Detected: Ensure the printer is powered on and connected correctly. Try restarting both your printer and PC. Check your USB or Wi-Fi connection.
  • Outdated Drivers: Regularly check for driver updates by visiting Canon’s support page and downloading the latest drivers.
  • Driver Conflicts: If you have multiple printers installed, make sure you’ve set the Canon printer as your default device in Control Panel > Devices and Printers.

Section 2: Downloading Canon Printer Drivers on Mac

Step 1: Visit Canon's Support Website

The process for Mac is similar to that for Windows:

  1. Open your Safari or preferred web browser.
  2. Go to Canon's official support website.
  3. Search for your specific Canon printer model.

Step 2: Choose Your Operating System

  1. In the Drivers & Downloads section, select your macOS version from the drop-down list. Ensure that you choose the correct macOS version (e.g., macOS Monterey, Big Sur, etc.).
  2. Choose the appropriate driver or software package for your system.

Step 3: Download and Install the Driver

  1. After selecting the driver, click Download to begin the process.
  2. Once the download is complete, open the .dmg file.
  3. The installation window will open, and you can proceed with the installation:
    • Agree to the license agreement.
    • Select your printer from the list of devices.
  4. Once the driver is installed, the printer should be recognized by your Mac. You can test this by printing a test page.

Troubleshooting Canon Printer Drivers on Mac

  • Printer Not Found: Make sure your Mac is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your printer for wireless printers. Try restarting both devices.
  • Driver Errors: In case of errors, remove the printer from the Printers & Scanners settings and add it again.
  • macOS Updates: Ensure that macOS is up to date. Sometimes, outdated macOS versions can cause compatibility issues with newer Canon printer drivers.

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Section 3: Downloading Canon Printer Drivers on Chromebook

Unlike Windows and Mac, Chromebooks do not use traditional printer drivers. Instead, Chromebooks rely on Google Cloud Print (for older versions) or CUPS (for newer versions) to communicate with printers.

Option 1: Using Google Cloud Print (Older Chromebook Versions)

Google Cloud Print allows you to print documents from a Chromebook to any printer that is connected to your Google account. To use Cloud Print:

  1. Ensure your Canon printer is connected to Google Cloud Print. You can do this by registering the printer through the Google Cloud Print website or connecting it to a computer that has Cloud Print enabled.
  2. Sign in to your Google account and open a document on your Chromebook.
  3. Choose “Print” from the app or website and select your Canon printer from the list of available devices.
  4. Once selected, click Print, and your document should be sent to the printer.

Option 2: Using CUPS (Current Chromebook Versions)

For newer Chromebooks, CUPS (Common UNIX Printing System) is the print service that allows you to connect your Canon printer:

  1. Open Settings on your Chromebook.
  2. In the Advanced section, scroll to Printing and click on Printers.
  3. Click Add a Printer and select CUPS.
  4. If CUPS is not enabled on your Chromebook, you will need to enable it by following the steps in the CUPS Documentation.

Step 1: Install the CUPS Driver

To install the CUPS driver for your Canon printer on a Chromebook:

  1. Go to the Chromebook’s Settings > Printers.
  2. If your Canon printer is not automatically detected, you can manually download the driver from Canon’s website and then upload it into your Chromebook's CUPS settings.

Step 2: Set Up the Printer

  1. Follow the CUPS setup instructions to configure your printer.
  2. Once configured, the printer should appear in the list of available printers, and you will be able to print directly from your Chromebook.

Troubleshooting Canon Printer Drivers on Chromebook

  • Printer Not Connecting: Ensure your Canon printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as the Chromebook. Restart both devices.
  • CUPS Errors: If you encounter errors while installing CUPS, ensure that your Chromebook’s system is up to date.
  • Google Cloud Print Deprecation: As Google Cloud Print has been deprecated, it’s important to switch to CUPS or other alternative methods for printing from your Chromebook.

Section 4: Alternative Methods and Solutions

Using Canon’s Mobile App

For both Windows, Mac, and Chromebook users, Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY is a mobile app that allows users to easily connect and print from smartphones and tablets. The app supports both iOS and Android devices and provides additional functions like scanning and cloud printing.

  1. Download the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app from the App Store (for iOS) or Google Play (for Android).
  2. Follow the app instructions to connect your mobile device to the Canon printer via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
  3. You can now print, scan, or check ink levels directly from your phone.

Printing via USB Cable

For users who prefer wired connections, you can also connect your Canon printer to your device using a USB cable. This is ideal for both desktop computers and Chromebooks that support USB peripherals.

Wireless Direct Printing

Many Canon printers come with Wi-Fi Direct, allowing users to print directly from their devices without a router. This is convenient for quick, direct connections.

Conclusion

Downloading and installing the correct Canon printer drivers is essential for smooth, efficient operation across Windows, Mac, and Chromebook platforms. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your printer operates flawlessly, whether you are using it for personal or professional needs. Regular updates, troubleshooting, and using alternative methods like mobile apps and USB connections will ensure that your printing experience remains optimal.

If you encounter problems or need assistance, Canon’s support team and online resources are available to help you resolve any issues quickly. Happy printing!