How to Reset Canon Printer: A Complete Guide

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1. Why Reset Your Canon Printer?

Resetting a Canon printer is often a quick and efficient solution to multiple technical issues:

• Error messages (e.g., "Printer Offline", "Ink Cartridge Not Recognized")

• Wireless connectivity issues

• Frozen or unresponsive printer interface

• Print job failures or queue blockages

• Changing printer ownership or preparing for resale

• Performance improvement

It helps restore the device to a known state, clearing up software or configuration bugs that might otherwise require complex troubleshooting.

2. Types of Canon Printer Resets

Canon offers several types of reset options depending on the problem you’re trying to fix:

• Soft Reset: Clears minor temporary issues.

• Hard Reset: Resets internal memory without affecting wireless or network settings.

• Factory Reset: Restores the printer to original factory settings.

• Ink Reset: Resets ink cartridge chip readings.

• Wi-Fi Reset: Resets the printer's wireless configuration.

3. Preparation Before Resetting

Before initiating any reset:

• Back up custom settings (e.g., Wi-Fi passwords, custom profiles).

• Disconnect from devices like PCs or mobile phones.

• Note down current settings if you plan to reconfigure manually later.

• Ensure the printer is powered on and not performing any tasks.

4. How to Perform a Soft Reset

A soft reset clears any temporary glitch affecting printer operation.

Steps:

1. Turn off your Canon printer.

2. Unplug the power cable.

3. Wait for 30 seconds.

4. Reconnect the power cord.

5. Turn the printer back on.

This method helps with minor firmware freezes, offline status, and basic error codes.

5. How to Perform a Hard Reset

Hard reset clears the printer’s memory but doesn’t remove network or account settings.

Steps:

1. Press and hold the Stop/Reset button.

2. While holding, press the Power button.

3. Keep holding both for about 5 seconds.

4. Release the Stop/Reset button while continuing to hold Power.

5. Press the Stop/Reset button two more times.

6. Release all buttons and allow the printer to initialize.

6. How to Factory Reset Canon Printers

This will restore all settings to factory defaults.

Using the Printer's Control Panel:

1. Press the Menu or Settings button.

2. Navigate to Device Settings > Reset Settings.

3. Select Reset All or Reset Settings.

4. Confirm by selecting Yes.

5. The printer will reboot automatically.

For Touchscreen Models:

1. Tap the gear icon.

2. Scroll to Device Settings.

3. Choose Reset > Reset All.

4. Tap Yes to confirm.

7. How to Reset Canon Printer Ink Levels

Canon uses smart chips in cartridges that track ink levels. Sometimes, these chips need manual resetting.

Universal Steps:

1. Remove the ink cartridge from the printer.

2. Reinsert the cartridge and close the cover.

3. Hold the Stop/Reset button for 5-10 seconds.

4. Release once the power LED blinks.

For printers with chip resetters:

1. Place the cartridge on the resetter.

2. Hold until LED lights turn green.

3. Reinstall the cartridge in the printer.

8. How to Reset Canon Printer Wi-Fi Settings

To resolve Wi-Fi issues or switch networks:

Using Control Panel:

1. Go to Menu > Setup > Device Settings.

2. Choose Reset Settings > Reset LAN Settings.

3. Confirm the action.

Via Mobile App:

1. Open Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY.

2. Select your printer.

3. Go to Settings > Reset Wi-Fi Connection.

9. How to Reset Canon Printer via Service Mode

Advanced users can use Service Mode to reset EEPROM, deep-clean printer heads, or clear waste ink counters.

Steps:

1. Power off the printer.

2. Press and hold Stop/Reset + Power.

3. Release Stop/Reset, press it twice while holding Power.

4. Wait for green light.

5. Release all buttons; printer enters service mode.

Use caution—modifying service settings may void warranty.

10. Model-Specific Reset Methods

Canon PIXMA:

• Navigate to Setup > Device Settings > Reset Settings.

• Choose Reset All or LAN Settings as needed.

Canon MAXIFY:

• Use the Home > Setup > Device Settings > Reset path.

Canon imageCLASS:

• Go to Menu > Management Settings > Initialize All Data/Settings.

Always consult the user manual or Canon support site for model-specific steps.

11. Resetting Canon Printers on Windows and macOS

On Windows:

1. Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers.

2. Right-click your Canon printer and select Remove Device.

3. Reinstall using the Canon driver.

On Mac:

1. Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.

2. Select your Canon printer and click the minus (-) button.

3. Re-add the printer after resetting it.

This is helpful after a factory or network reset.

12. Troubleshooting Tips Post-Reset

• Printer not detected? Ensure it’s connected to the same Wi-Fi as your computer.

• Driver issues? Reinstall the Canon driver from the official website.

• Ink not recognized? Clean the cartridge contacts and try a chip reset.

• Frequent disconnections? Assign a static IP address to the printer.

13. What to Do If Reset Doesn’t Work

• Update your printer firmware.

• Use Canon’s diagnostic tools.

• Try a different reset method (e.g., factory instead of soft).

• Contact Canon support or visit a service center.

14. Conclusion

Resetting your Canon printer can resolve a wide range of technical issues, from basic print errors to more advanced connectivity problems. Whether you opt for a soft reset, a factory restore, or a cartridge reset, knowing the right process ensures you maintain optimal printer performance. Always follow model-specific instructions and use caution with service mode or deep resets.