How to fix Canon printer not available error

Summary

  • Check printer connection and restart the printer
  • Update printer drivers and run the printer troubleshooter
  • Contact Canon support if issue persists
  • Ensure proper network settings and explore AirPrint functionality.

In this article, I will discuss how to troubleshoot and fix the Canon printer not available error.

Initial Setup and Installation Tips

1. Check the Printer Connection: Ensure that your Canon printer is properly connected to your computer or network. Make sure all cables are securely plugged in and the printer is turned on.

2. Restart the Printer: Try restarting your Canon printer to see if this resolves the “printer not available” error. Sometimes a simple reboot can fix the issue.

3. Verify Network Settings: Check your wireless network settings to ensure that the printer is connected to the correct network. Make sure the printer has a valid IP address and is connected to the same network as your computer.

4. Update Printer Drivers: Make sure you have the latest printer drivers installed on your computer. Visit the Canon website to download and install the latest drivers for your specific printer model.

5. Run the Printer Troubleshooter: Use the built-in printer troubleshooter in your operating system to diagnose and fix any issues with your Canon printer. This tool can help identify and resolve common printer problems.

6. Contact Canon Support: If you have tried the above steps and are still experiencing the “printer not available” error, contact Canon customer support for further assistance. They may be able to provide additional troubleshooting steps or recommend a solution tailored to your specific issue.

Troubleshooting Non-Responsive Issues

  • Check Printer Connection:
    • Make sure the printer is properly connected to the power source.
    • Check the USB or wireless connection between the printer and the computer.
    • Restart both the printer and the computer to refresh the connection.
  • Update Printer Drivers:
    • Go to the manufacturer’s website and download the latest drivers for your Canon printer.
    • Install the drivers on your computer and follow the on-screen instructions.
    • Restart the computer to apply the changes.
  • Clear Print Queue:
    • Open Control Panel and navigate to Devices and Printers.
    • Right-click on your Canon printer and select See what’s printing.
    • Click on Printer in the top menu and select Cancel All Documents.

Updating System and Printer Drivers

Canon printer driver update screen

To update system and printer drivers for your Canon printer, follow these steps:

Step 1: Open the Start menu and type “Device Manager” in the search bar.

Step 2: Double-click on Device Manager to open it.

Step 3: Locate your Canon printer under the “Printers” section.

Step 4: Right-click on your Canon printer and select “Update driver.”

Step 5: Follow the on-screen instructions to update the driver.

Step 6: Once the driver update is complete, restart your computer.

Updating your system and printer drivers can help resolve the “Canon printer not available” error. Make sure to regularly check for driver updates to ensure smooth printing operations on your Canon printer.

Exploring AirPrint Functionality

To explore AirPrint functionality and resolve the Canon printer not available error, first ensure that your printer is connected to the same network as your device. Check the wireless access point, router settings, and IP address to ensure they are properly configured.

Next, update the printer’s firmware and drivers to the latest versions to ensure compatibility with AirPrint. Make sure your operating system is also up to date.

If the Canon printer still shows as not available, try restarting both the printer and your device. Check for any error messages on the printer display or the device screen.

Verify that your device is connected to the same wireless network as the printer and that AirPrint is enabled on the Canon printer.

If the issue persists, try resetting the printer network settings or resetting the network settings on your device. You may also try adding the printer manually using its IP address.

Lastly, if none of these steps work, consider contacting Canon customer support for further assistance in resolving the printer not available error.

FAQs

Why is my Canon printer not available?

Your Canon printer may not be available because the “Use Printer Offline” option could be enabled on your Windows computer. Try disabling this feature and then attempt printing to resolve the issue.

Why does my printer keep saying printer not available?

My printer keeps saying “printer not available” because outdated apps or drivers may not be compatible with the latest software updates. Check for updates on the Google Play Store or the printer manufacturer’s website. Additionally, clear the print spooler to resolve any connectivity issues caused by stuck print jobs.

How to fix printer unavailable?

To fix a printer that is unavailable, start by checking if it’s turned on and connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your device. If it is, unplug and restart the printer, set it as the default printer, clear the print queue, reset the printing queue service, and remove and reinstall the printer to your device.

Why does my Canon printer keep saying driver unavailable?

Your Canon printer keeps saying “driver unavailable” because Windows is unable to locate the correct driver needed to communicate with the printer. This could be caused by incorrect, corrupted, or outdated drivers, or by limited system access permissions.