Fix Canon Printer Offline Error on Windows and Mac
If your Canon printer shows offline on Mac or Windows [Dial +1-801-878-6858 USA], it means your device can’t communicate with the printer. Check the connections, restart your printer, clear the print queue, and set the Canon printer as default. Update drivers and firmware to ensure smooth and uninterrupted printing on both systems. [Dial +1-801-878-6858 USA]
Canon Printer Offline Error on Windows and Mac: Complete Guide
Canon printers are trusted worldwide for their print quality and reliability, but like any modern device, they can sometimes display errors. One of the most common and frustrating problems users encounter is the Canon Printer Offline error on Windows and Mac. When this happens, your computer fails to communicate with the printer, stopping all print tasks. [Dial +1-801-878-6858 USA]
Why is My Canon Printer Offline on Windows and Mac?
Understanding the possible reasons behind the Canon printer offline status can help you troubleshoot it more efficiently. Let’s explore the main causes:
🔹 1️⃣ Connectivity Issues
Loose USB cables, weak Wi-Fi signals, or unstable network connections often disrupt communication between the computer and printer.
🔹 2️⃣ Printer Set to Offline Manually
Sometimes, printers are accidentally set to offline mode through the system settings, stopping them from receiving print jobs.
🔹 3️⃣ Print Queue Errors
Stuck or paused print jobs in the print queue can block new tasks and make the printer appear offline.
🔹 4️⃣ Outdated or Corrupt Printer Drivers
An old or damaged printer driver might not communicate properly with your device, resulting in offline status.
🔹 5️⃣ Network Configuration Errors
IP address changes or incorrect network settings can cause the printer to lose its connection.
🔹 6️⃣ Power-Saving Mode
Some printers switch to offline mode if idle for too long in power-saving or sleep mode.
🔹 7️⃣ Firmware Issues
An outdated printer firmware may cause operational glitches, including offline errors.
How to Fix Canon Printer Offline on Windows
If you’re using a Windows computer and your Canon printer shows offline, follow these troubleshooting steps:
✅ 1. Check the Printer Connection
Ensure your printer is powered on.
Verify USB cables are securely connected.
If wireless, confirm the printer is connected to your Wi-Fi network.
✅ 2. Set Canon Printer as Default
Open Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
Right-click on your Canon printer and select Set as default printer.
✅ 3. Disable "Use Printer Offline" Mode
In Devices and Printers, right-click your printer.
Select See what’s printing.
Click Printer in the top menu and uncheck Use Printer Offline.
✅ 4. Clear the Print Queue
In the See what’s printing window, right-click and Cancel all pending print jobs.
✅ 5. Restart the Print Spooler Service
Press Windows + R, type
services.msc, and hit Enter.Scroll down to Print Spooler, right-click, and select Restart.
✅ 6. Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers
Visit the Canon Support Website.
Download and install the latest drivers for your specific printer model.
✅ 7. Run the Windows Troubleshooter
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
Select Printer, then click Run the troubleshooter.
How to Fix Canon Printer Offline on Mac
If you’re using a Mac and see your Canon printer offline, these steps can help you resolve the problem:
✅ 1. Verify Printer Connection
Make sure your printer is turned on.
Check USB or Wi-Fi connections.
Go to Apple Menu > System Preferences > Printers & Scanners and confirm the printer appears in the list.
✅ 2. Set Canon Printer as Default
In Printers & Scanners, right-click (or control-click) your Canon printer.
Select Set as Default Printer.
✅ 3. Clear the Print Queue
Select your printer in Printers & Scanners.
Click Open Print Queue and delete any stuck print jobs.
✅ 4. Remove and Re-add the Printer
In Printers & Scanners, select your printer and click the minus (-) button.
Then, click the plus (+) button to re-add the printer.
✅ 5. Reset the Printing System
Open Printers & Scanners.
Right-click anywhere in the printer list and choose Reset Printing System.
Re-add your printer and check if it appears online.
✅ 6. Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers
Download the latest macOS drivers from the Canon Support Website.
Install them and reconnect your printer.
✅ 7. Restart Printer and Mac
Power off both devices and restart them to refresh the system.
Additional Tips to Prevent Canon Printer Offline Issues
Keep printer drivers and firmware up to date.
Use a stable and reliable internet connection.
Avoid overloading the print queue.
Regularly restart your printer and computer.
Perform periodic maintenance and firmware checks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why does my Canon printer keep showing offline?
Your printer may show offline due to network issues, outdated drivers, paper jams, or being set to offline mode in system settings.
How do I get my Canon printer back online on Windows?
Go to Devices and Printers, right-click your Canon printer, select See what’s printing, and uncheck Use Printer Offline. Set the printer as default if needed.
How do I fix Canon printer offline error on Mac?
Check printer connections, clear the print queue, set the printer as default, update drivers, or reset the printing system in Printers & Scanners.
How do I reset the printing system on a Mac?
Go to Printers & Scanners, right-click in the printer list, and select Reset Printing System. Then, re-add your printer.
Can a weak Wi-Fi signal cause a printer to go offline?
Yes — a poor or unstable wireless connection can prevent the printer from maintaining communication with your computer.
Should I update my printer firmware?
Absolutely. Keeping your printer firmware updated helps fix known bugs, including offline issues.
Final Thoughts
A Canon printer offline error on Windows or Mac can disrupt your work, but with the troubleshooting steps above, you can quickly restore normal function. Regularly updating your printer drivers, checking connections, and managing the print queue are simple habits that prevent this problem from recurring.
