Canon printers are known for reliability and quality printing, but sometimes users face a frustrating problem — the printer suddenly shows “Offline” on Mac, Windows 10, or Windows 11. When a Canon printer goes offline, it cannot receive print commands, causing documents to remain stuck in the queue.
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The good news is that the offline issue is common and usually easy to fix. This complete guide explains what Canon printer offline means, why it happens, and step-by-step solutions for both macOS and Windows systems.
What Does Canon Printer Offline Mean?
When your Canon printer status displays Offline, it means the computer cannot communicate with the printer. Even if the printer is powered on, the operating system believes it is disconnected or unavailable.
Common signs include:
- Printer shows offline status
- Documents stuck in print queue
- Printer not responding
- Error messages appearing on screen
- Unable to send print jobs
Why Does a Canon Printer Go Offline?
Several technical issues may cause a Canon printer to appear offline. Understanding the causes helps you fix the problem faster.
1. Network Connection Problems
Wireless printers require stable WiFi. If the printer disconnects from the network, it appears offline.
2. Incorrect Printer Settings
Sometimes the “Use Printer Offline” option is enabled accidentally.
3. Outdated Printer Drivers
Old or corrupted drivers may not work properly with Windows 10, Windows 11, or macOS updates.
4. Printer Not Set as Default
If another printer is selected as default, print jobs may not reach your Canon device.
5. Print Spooler Errors
A stuck print job can freeze communication between the computer and printer.
6. Firewall or Antivirus Restrictions
Security software may block printer connections.
7. USB Cable Problems
Loose or damaged cables can interrupt communication.
8. Incorrect IP Address
Network printers rely on correct IP configuration.
Basic Checks Before Advanced Troubleshooting
Start with these quick fixes:
- Restart the printer and computer
- Restart your WiFi router
- Ensure the printer is powered on
- Check ink and paper levels
- Confirm printer and computer use the same network
- Look for error lights or messages on the printer
If the printer still shows offline, follow the steps below.
How to Fix Canon Printer Offline on Windows 10 or Windows 11
1. Set Canon Printer as Default
- Open Settings
- Click Bluetooth & Devices
- Select Printers & Scanners
- Choose your Canon printer
- Click Set as Default
2. Disable “Use Printer Offline”
- Open Control Panel
- Go to Devices and Printers
- Right-click Canon printer
- Select See what’s printing
- Click Printer menu
- Uncheck Use Printer Offline
3. Restart the Print Spooler
- Press Windows + R
- Type services.msc
- Locate Print Spooler
- Right-click and choose Restart
This clears stuck print jobs.
4. Update Canon Printer Drivers
- Open Device Manager
- Expand Print Queues
- Right-click Canon printer
- Select Update Driver
You can also download drivers from Canon’s official support website.
5. Remove and Reinstall Printer
- Go to Settings → Printers & Scanners
- Select printer and click Remove
- Restart PC
- Click Add Device to reinstall
6. Check Printer Port Settings
- Open Devices and Printers
- Right-click Canon printer
- Select Printer Properties
- Go to Ports tab
- Ensure correct USB or IP port is selected
7. Run Windows Printer Troubleshooter
- Open Settings
- Go to System → Troubleshoot
- Select Other Troubleshooters
- Run Printer Troubleshooter
How to Fix Canon Printer Offline on Mac (macOS)
1. Reset Printing System
- Open System Settings
- Go to Printers & Scanners
- Right-click in printer list
- Select Reset Printing System
- Add printer again
2. Delete and Re-add Printer
- Open Printers & Scanners
- Select Canon printer
- Click – to remove
- Click + to add printer again
3. Check Network Connection
- Ensure Mac and printer use same WiFi
- Check printer IP address
- Move printer closer to router
4. Update macOS
- Open System Settings
- Click Software Update
- Install updates
5. Clear Print Queue
- Open Printers & Scanners
- Select Canon printer
- Open queue
- Cancel stuck jobs
Fix Wireless Canon Printer Offline Issues
- Reconnect printer to WiFi
- Restart router
- Assign static IP address
- Disable VPN temporarily
- Reduce network congestion
Fix USB Canon Printer Offline Issues
- Replace USB cable
- Connect directly to computer
- Try different USB port
- Reinstall drivers
Advanced Troubleshooting Solutions
Update Printer Firmware
Visit Canon support website to install latest firmware.
Check Firewall Settings
Temporarily disable firewall to test connection.
Reset Printer Network Settings
Use printer control panel to reset WiFi configuration.
Disable Sleep Mode
Prevent printer from entering deep sleep.
Tips to Prevent Canon Printer Offline Problems
- Keep printer drivers updated
- Maintain strong WiFi connection
- Restart printer weekly
- Avoid duplicate printer installations
- Use official Canon software
- Regularly clear print queue
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Canon printer keep going offline?
Unstable network connections, outdated drivers, or incorrect settings are common causes.
How do I bring my Canon printer online?
Restart devices, disable offline mode, update drivers, and reinstall printer.
Is this issue common on Windows 11?
Yes, especially after updates or driver conflicts.
Does antivirus software cause offline problems?
Sometimes security programs block printer communication.
Should I reset my printer?
Yes, resetting network settings often resolves connection issues.
Conclusion
A Canon printer offline on Mac or Windows 10/11 can interrupt your work, but most offline problems are easy to fix. Checking network connections, updating drivers, clearing print queues, and reinstalling the printer often restores normal printing quickly.
With proper maintenance, updated software, and stable connectivity, you can prevent future offline issues and keep your Canon printer running smoothly.