Canon printer offline on Mac or Windows? Check connections, update drivers, clear the print queue, and disable offline mode to get your printer back online. [Dial +1-801-878-6858 USA]
A Canon printer offline error on Mac or Windows occurs when the computer loses connection with the printer. It can happen due to network issues, outdated drivers, or incorrect settings. Check connections, update drivers, clear the print queue, and set the printer as default to bring it back online smoothly. [Dial +1-801-878-6858 USA]
Why Is My Canon Printer Offline?
When a printer is listed as “offline,” it means your computer cannot communicate with the printer. This may happen due to several reasons:
1️⃣ Connection Issues [Dial +1-801-878-6858 USA]
Wi-Fi disconnections
Loose or faulty USB cables
Printer switched to a different network
2️⃣ Printer Settings Problem
Printer set to offline mode manually
Printer paused or stopped by the system
Multiple printer drivers installed causing conflict
3️⃣ Outdated or Corrupt Drivers
Old, incompatible, or missing printer drivers
Operating system updates causing driver issues
4️⃣ Print Spooler Service Issues
Print spooler errors preventing communication
Stuck print jobs clogging the queue
5️⃣ Network Configuration Issues
IP address conflicts
Firewall or antivirus blocking printer connection
6️⃣ Hardware Glitches
Printer not powered on
Paper jams or ink errors causing offline status
How to Fix Canon Printer Offline Issue
Let’s go through detailed step-by-step fixes for both Windows and Mac users.
Fix Canon Printer Offline on Windows
✅ Step 1: Check Printer Connections
Ensure the printer is powered on.
Confirm the USB cable is properly connected or Wi-Fi signal is strong.
Restart your router and printer.
✅ Step 2: Set Printer as Default
Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners.
Click on your Canon printer and select Set as default.
✅ Step 3: Disable Offline Mode
Open Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
Right-click your Canon printer.
Uncheck Use Printer Offline option.
✅ Step 4: Restart Print Spooler Service
Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
Locate Print Spooler, right-click, and choose Restart.
✅ Step 5: Clear Print Queue
Open Devices and Printers.
Right-click your Canon printer.
Click See what's printing.
Cancel all documents.
✅ Step 6: Update or Reinstall Drivers
Download the latest drivers from Canon’s official website.
Install them and restart your system.
✅ Step 7: Check Firewall and Antivirus Settings
Temporarily disable firewall or antivirus.
Add your printer to the firewall exceptions.
Fix Canon Printer Offline on Mac
✅ Step 1: Check Printer Connections
Make sure your printer is on and connected via USB or Wi-Fi.
Restart your printer and router.
✅ Step 2: Reset the Printing System
Go to Apple Menu > System Settings > Printers & Scanners.
Right-click (or Control-click) anywhere in the printer list.
Select Reset printing system.
Add your Canon printer again.
✅ Step 3: Clear Print Queue
Go to Printers & Scanners.
Select your Canon printer and click Open Print Queue.
Cancel or remove stuck print jobs.
✅ Step 4: Set as Default Printer
In Printers & Scanners, choose your Canon printer and click Set as Default.
✅ Step 5: Update Printer Drivers
Visit the Canon support site.
Download and install the latest drivers for macOS.
Additional Troubleshooting Tips
Check if your printer's firmware is up to date.
Ensure your printer is connected to the correct Wi-Fi network.
Perform a network reset on the printer if necessary.
Avoid using VPN connections while printing.
Replace any damaged cables.
FAQs on Canon Printer Offline Issue
1. Why does my Canon printer keep going offline?
It usually happens due to network disconnections, outdated drivers, print queue errors, or incorrect printer settings.
2. How do I stop my Canon printer from going offline?
Ensure stable connections, keep drivers updated, regularly clear the print queue, and set the printer as the default on your device.
3. How to put my Canon printer back online?
On Windows, go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers, right-click your printer, and uncheck Use Printer Offline. On Mac, reset the printing system and re-add your printer.
4. How do I check my Canon printer’s connection status?
Use your printer's display screen or control panel to access network settings and verify connection status.
5. Will reinstalling drivers fix the offline issue?
Yes — outdated or corrupt drivers are a common cause. Download and install the latest drivers from Canon's official website.
6. How can I reset my Canon printer’s network settings?
Refer to your printer model’s manual, but generally, you can find the reset option under Settings > Device Settings > Reset Settings > Reset Network Settings.
7. Does a paper jam cause the printer to go offline?
Yes — hardware issues like paper jams, ink problems, or open covers can prevent the printer from working, triggering an offline status.
8. Should I restart my router to fix printer offline errors?
Yes — network disruptions can be resolved by restarting your Wi-Fi router and reconnecting your printer.
Conclusion
A Canon printer offline issue is common but easily fixable with the right troubleshooting steps. Whether it's a network problem, driver issue, or a print spooler error, addressing these systematically will restore your printer's functionality. Always keep your printer drivers and firmware up to date and maintain a reliable connection to minimize offline errors.