Canon Printer Cannot Connect to Server

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If your Canon printer cannot connect to the server, it’s usually related to internet connectivity issues, incorrect DNS or proxy settings, outdated firmware, or server authentication problems. This error typically appears when trying to use features like:

  • Firmware updates
  • Cloud printing (PIXMA Cloud Link)
  • Scan to Email
  • Google Cloud Print (legacy)
  • Canon Print App connections

This guide outlines the most common causes and how to fix them.

1. Check Internet Connection

Confirm Printer is Connected to Wi-Fi
  • On the printer screen, go to Settings > Network > Wi-Fi Status.
  • Print a Network Configuration Page to verify the IP address and connection status.

Check Signal Strength
  • Move the printer closer to the router to improve Wi-Fi signal.
  • Avoid physical obstructions or interference (microwaves, thick walls).

Test Network Access
  • On a computer or phone connected to the same Wi-Fi, try accessing the internet.
  • If other devices have no internet, the issue is with the router or ISP.

2. Restart Printer, Router, and Modem
  • Power off your Canon printer, router, and modem.
  • Wait 30 seconds, then turn them back on in this order:
    1. Modem
    2. Router
    3. Printer
  • Wait for all devices to fully boot, then retry the server connection.

3. Check DNS and Proxy Settings

Configure Correct DNS

Some Canon printers allow manual DNS settings. Use the following for reliability:

  • Preferred DNS: 8.8.8.8 (Google DNS)
  • Alternate DNS: 8.8.4.4

Steps (general, varies by model):

  1. Go to Settings > Network > TCP/IP Settings > IPv4 Settings
  2. Set DNS to Manual
  3. Enter the above values

Disable Proxy (if enabled)
  • On the printer, navigate to Settings > Network > Proxy Settings
  • Set Proxy to Disabled

4. Check Date and Time Settings

Incorrect date and time can prevent secure connections (SSL/TLS):

  1. Go to Settings > Device Settings > Date/Time Settings
  2. Set the correct date, time, and time zone

5. Update Printer Firmware (Manually via USB or PC)

If your printer can’t connect to the server, it might not be able to auto-update its firmware.

Manual Firmware Update Steps:
  1. Go to Canon Support
  2. Search for your printer model
  3. Download the latest firmware and installation tool
  4. Connect your printer to a PC via USB
  5. Run the firmware updater following the on-screen instructions

6. Disable Firewall or Parental Controls on Router
  • Some routers block outgoing connections to unknown servers
  • Log into your router’s admin panel:
    • Temporarily disable firewall, URL filtering, or parental controls
    • Try connecting the printer again
    • Re-enable protection after testing

7. Try a Different Network

If possible:

  • Connect the printer to a mobile hotspot or a different Wi-Fi network.
  • If it connects successfully, the issue is with your original network’s firewall or router settings.

8. Canon Cloud Features: Region or Service Limitations

Some cloud services like PIXMA Cloud Link or Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY require:

  • Specific regional settings
  • An active Canon account
  • Supported models and updated firmware

If using these features:

  • Make sure your Canon ID is active
  • Check regional compatibility on Canon’s website
  • Re-register your Canon account if needed

9. Use Canon PRINT App to Troubleshoot
  1. Download the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app (iOS or Android)
  2. Open the app and connect to your printer via Wi-Fi
  3. Go to Printer Settings > Printer Information
  4. Check network diagnostics and attempt reconnection

10. Common Error Messages and Fixes
Error Message Cause Fix
Cannot connect to server DNS/router/firewall blocking access Change DNS, disable proxy, check router
Server not responding No internet or server unreachable Restart router/modem, use mobile hotspot
Support Code 2103 / 3441 Incorrect network or timeout Reset network settings, reconnect Wi-Fi
TLS/SSL error Incorrect date/time or firmware issue Set date/time, update firmware

11. Reset Network Settings (as a last resort)

If all else fails:

  1. Go to Settings > Device Settings > Reset Settings > Reset LAN Settings
  2. Reconnect to Wi-Fi using Easy Wireless Connect, Standard Setup, or WPS
  3. Retry connecting to the server after resetting

When to Contact Canon Support

Contact Canon if:

  • You’ve verified the network and DNS, and the printer still can’t connect.
  • Firmware update fails or is not available for your model.
  • You receive a persistent support code or hardware error.
  • You’re using cloud features that require registration but login consistently fails.

Canon may assist with advanced configuration or recommend servicing if the Wi-Fi module or network board is faulty.