Connecting Your Canon TS3122 to Wi-Fi Without WPS: A No-Nonsense Guide

So, your shiny new Canon TS3122 is sitting pretty, but the Wi-Fi eludes you. Don’t fret! Connecting without WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) is entirely possible and, frankly, often more reliable. You’ll achieve this primarily through the printer’s direct connection mode and the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app or by using the printer’s built-in access point mode and your computer’s web browser. Let’s dive into a step-by-step guide.

The Primary Method: Using the Canon PRINT App (Recommended)

This method utilizes the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app, a robust tool designed to streamline printer setup. It’s generally the easiest route for most users.

Step 1: Download and Install the Canon PRINT App

Head to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) on your smartphone or tablet. Search for “Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY” and download the official app. Ensure you grant the app the necessary permissions (location, Wi-Fi access, etc.) – these are crucial for seamless printer discovery and configuration.

Step 2: Power On Your Canon TS3122 and Initiate Setup Mode

Power on your Canon TS3122. Now, you need to put it into setup mode. This usually involves a sequence of button presses. Look for the Wi-Fi button (often denoted by a Wi-Fi symbol or the word “Direct”). Press and hold this button until the Alarm lamp flashes. Then, release the button. The Wi-Fi lamp should then flash as well. This indicates the printer is ready for wireless setup.

Step 3: Connect to the Printer’s Direct Connection Network

On your smartphone or tablet, go to your Wi-Fi settings. You should see a new network listed, something like “CanonIJxxxxxxxx_TS3100series” (the ‘xxxxxxxx’ will be a unique identifier). Connect to this network. This creates a direct connection between your device and the printer. Note: This temporarily disconnects you from your regular home Wi-Fi.

Step 4: Launch the Canon PRINT App and Follow the On-Screen Instructions

Open the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app. The app should automatically detect your Canon TS3122. If it doesn’t, tap the “+” icon to manually add a printer. The app will guide you through the process of selecting your home Wi-Fi network and entering the Wi-Fi password. This is where the printer will learn how to connect to your regular network.

Step 5: Confirmation and Testing

Once you’ve entered the Wi-Fi credentials, the Canon PRINT app will configure the printer. The Wi-Fi lamp on the printer should illuminate steadily once successfully connected. Now, run a test print from your phone or tablet to confirm everything is working as expected. Congratulations, you’re connected!

Alternative Method: Using Access Point Mode and a Web Browser

If the Canon PRINT app route gives you trouble, this method allows you to configure the Wi-Fi settings through your computer’s web browser.

Step 1: Put the Printer in Access Point Mode

Similar to the previous method, you need to activate the printer’s Access Point mode. Press and hold the Wi-Fi button on the printer until the Alarm lamp flashes, then release. The Wi-Fi lamp should then flash. This time, if necessary, you might need to press and hold the Wi-Fi button again until both the Wi-Fi and Direct lamps are flashing alternately. Refer to your printer’s manual if you’re unsure.

Step 2: Connect Your Computer to the Printer’s Network

On your computer (laptop or desktop), go to your Wi-Fi settings. Look for a network name similar to “CanonIJxxxxxxxx_TS3100series” and connect to it. You may be prompted for a password; the default password is often the printer’s serial number, which is usually printed on a sticker on the back or bottom of the printer.

Step 3: Access the Printer’s Configuration Page via Web Browser

Open your web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, etc.). In the address bar, type “http://192.168.1.1” or “http://canonijsetup.local” and press Enter. This should take you to the printer’s configuration page. If neither of these addresses works, consult your printer’s manual for the correct IP address.

Step 4: Configure Wi-Fi Settings

Within the printer’s configuration page, navigate to the “Wireless LAN setup” or similar section. Here, you’ll be able to select your home Wi-Fi network from a list of available networks and enter the Wi-Fi password.

Step 5: Confirmation and Testing

After entering the Wi-Fi details, save the changes. The printer will attempt to connect to your network. Once connected, the Wi-Fi lamp on the printer will light up steadily. Disconnect your computer from the printer’s network and reconnect to your regular home Wi-Fi. Test printing from your computer to ensure the connection is successful.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Double-Check Your Password: Ensure you’ve entered your Wi-Fi password correctly. Passwords are case-sensitive.
• Router Compatibility: Older routers might have compatibility issues. Consider updating your router’s firmware or trying a different Wi-Fi band (2.4 GHz is generally more compatible).
• Printer Proximity: Ensure the printer is within a reasonable range of your router. Walls and other obstructions can weaken the Wi-Fi signal.
• Firewall Issues: Temporarily disable your computer’s firewall to see if it’s blocking the connection.
• Restart Everything: Sometimes, the simplest solution is the best. Restart your printer, router, and computer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What if the Canon PRINT app doesn’t detect my printer?

Ensure your phone/tablet is connected to the printer’s direct network (CanonIJxxxxxxxx_TS3100series). Also, make sure location services and Wi-Fi permissions are enabled for the app. Restarting the app often helps.

2. I can’t find the printer’s serial number. Where else can I look?

The serial number is usually printed on a sticker on the box the printer came in. You can also sometimes find it in the printer’s internal menu settings (though this requires initial setup).

3. My router only supports 5 GHz. Will the Canon TS3122 work?

The Canon TS3122 typically only supports the 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi band. Ensure your router is broadcasting a 2.4 GHz network, or enable a dual-band setup with both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz.

4. The web browser method isn’t working. What could be wrong?

Double-check that your computer is connected to the printer’s network (CanonIJxxxxxxxx_TS3100series). Verify you’re entering the correct IP address (192.168.1.1 or canonijsetup.local). Clear your browser’s cache and cookies, or try a different browser.

5. How do I reset the printer’s network settings to factory defaults?

Press and hold the Stop button on the printer until the Alarm lamp flashes 15 times. Then, release the button. This will reset the network settings.

6. Can I connect the printer to Wi-Fi using a USB cable?

No, the Canon TS3122 does not support Wi-Fi configuration via USB cable. The USB port is primarily for printing and scanning.

7. What if I forgot my Wi-Fi password?

You’ll need to retrieve your Wi-Fi password from your router’s settings or contact your internet service provider (ISP) for assistance. You cannot connect the printer without knowing the correct password.

8. Is it possible to connect the printer to a guest Wi-Fi network?

Yes, as long as the guest network operates on the 2.4 GHz band and you have the password, you can connect the printer using the methods described above.

9. My printer keeps disconnecting from Wi-Fi. What can I do?

Ensure the printer is within a good range of the router and there are no significant obstructions. Update your router’s firmware. Assign a static IP address to the printer in your router’s settings to prevent IP address conflicts.

10. Can I use the Canon TS3122 with my Chromebook?

Yes, Chromebooks can typically print to the Canon TS3122 if the printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network. You might need to add the printer manually through the Chromebook’s settings.

11. What does the flashing Alarm lamp indicate?

The flashing Alarm lamp usually indicates an error or a low ink level. However, during setup, it often signifies that the printer is ready to be configured. Refer to your printer’s manual for specific error codes.

12. Is there a way to print from my phone without connecting to Wi-Fi?

Yes, you can use Direct Connection mode to print directly from your phone without needing a Wi-Fi network. Simply connect your phone to the printer’s network (CanonIJxxxxxxxx_TS3100series) and use the Canon PRINT app to print. However, this requires disconnecting from your regular Wi-Fi to print.