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Step-by-Step Guide: How to Connect Your Canon Printer to WiFi

Learn how to connect your Canon printer to WiFi, whether setting up a new connection or troubleshooting when it won’t connect. Follow step-by-step to ensure a stable wireless connection and seamless printing from your Canon printer on any device.

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Connecting your Canon printer to WiFi allows wireless printing from computers, smartphones, and tablets. This guide covers why your Canon printer might not connect to WiFi, how to fix connectivity issues, step-by-step instructions for new connections, and frequently asked questions.

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Why Won't My Canon Printer Connect to WiFi?

Wireless printing is convenient, but sometimes your Canon printer may fail to connect to WiFi. Understanding the common causes can help you troubleshoot and fix the issue quickly. Here are the main reasons why your Canon printer won’t connect to a wireless network.

1. Incorrect WiFi Password

Entering the wrong WiFi password is one of the most common reasons your Canon printer cannot connect to the network. Even a single incorrect character or space can block the connection.

2. Weak WiFi Signal

A weak or unstable WiFi signal can prevent the printer from maintaining a connection. Distance from the router, thick walls, or interference from other electronic devices can reduce signal strength.

3. Router Issues

Sometimes the problem lies with the WiFi router. Temporary network glitches or router misconfigurations can prevent your printer from connecting.

4. Outdated Printer Firmware

Using outdated firmware on your Canon printer may cause compatibility issues with newer routers or WiFi protocols.

5. IP Address Conflicts

IP conflicts occur when another device on your network uses the same IP address as your printer, causing connection failures.

6. Network Mode Mismatch

Some Canon printers support only 2.4 GHz WiFi networks, not 5 GHz. If your router is broadcasting only on 5 GHz, the printer may not detect the network.

How to Fix Canon Printer Not Connecting to WiFi

A Canon printer not connecting to WiFi can disrupt your workflow, especially if you rely on wireless printing for home or office tasks. This guide explains here provides step-by-step solutions to get your printer back online.

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Step 1: Restart Your Printer and Router

Restarting devices can resolve many temporary connectivity issues.

How to Restart:

  • Turn off the Canon printer and unplug it from power.

  • Turn off your WiFi router and wait for 30 seconds.

  • Power on the router first, then the printer.

  • Attempt to reconnect your printer to WiFi.

Step 2: Verify WiFi Password and Network

Ensure your printer is connecting to the correct WiFi network with the right password.

Tips:

  • Check for typos in the password.

  • Confirm your network name (SSID) is correct.

  • Avoid special characters that may not be supported.

Step 3: Move the Printer Closer to the Router

Weak WiFi signals can prevent a stable connection.

Solution:

  • Place your printer within a reasonable range of the router.

  • Minimize physical obstructions like walls and furniture.

  • Avoid interference from microwaves or other electronic devices.

Step 4: Update Canon Printer Firmware

Outdated firmware can cause compatibility issues.

Steps to Update:

  1. Visit the Canon Support Website.

  2. Enter your printer model and download the latest firmware.

  3. Follow the instructions to install the update.

  4. Restart the printer and reconnect to WiFi.

Step 5: Check IP Address Settings

IP address conflicts may prevent your printer from connecting to the network.

Solution:

  • Set the printer to automatic IP (DHCP) mode.

  • Restart the printer and router to refresh network assignments.

  • Ensure no other device uses the same IP address.

Step 6: Use WPS for Easy Connection

If your router supports WPS (WiFi Protected Setup), it allows a quick connection without manually entering passwords.

Steps:

  1. Press the WPS button on your router.

  2. Press the WPS button on your Canon printer.

  3. Wait until the printer connects automatically.

Step 7: Reset Network Settings

Resetting your printer’s network settings can resolve persistent issues.

How to Reset:

  • Access the printer menu.

  • Navigate to Setup > Device Settings > Reset Network Settings.

  • Confirm the reset and reattempt WiFi setup.

Step 8: Reconnect Canon Printer to WiFi

Once troubleshooting is complete:

  1. Open the printer’s Wireless LAN Setup menu.

  2. Select your WiFi network from the list.

  3. Enter the correct password.

  4. Confirm connection and print a test page.

Additional Tips for Successful Connection

  • Ensure your Canon printer supports the WiFi band (2.4 GHz vs 5 GHz).

  • Disable firewall or antivirus temporarily if they block the connection.

  • Install the latest Canon software and drivers on your computer or mobile device.

  • For mobile printing, use the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app.

Conclusion

Fixing a Canon printer that won’t connect to WiFi involves checking passwords, signal strength, router settings, firmware updates, and network configurations. By following these steps, you can troubleshoot and restore wireless printing efficiently. Regular firmware updates and proper network setup prevent future connection issues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why does my Canon printer say “Not Connected” even after entering the password?

  • Double-check the WiFi password and ensure the printer is within range of the router.

2. Can I connect my Canon printer to a 5 GHz network?

  • Most Canon printers only support 2.4 GHz networks. Verify your model’s specifications.

3. How do I update my Canon printer firmware?

  • Visit the Canon support website, download the firmware for your model, and follow instructions.

4. Can multiple devices print to the Canon printer via WiFi?

  • Yes, once connected, multiple computers and mobile devices can print wirelessly.

5. What should I do if my Canon printer keeps dropping WiFi?

  • Check signal strength, restart devices, update firmware, and ensure IP settings are correct.

How to Connect Canon Printer to WiFi: Complete Guide

Connecting your Canon printer to WiFi allows you to print documents and photos wirelessly from computers, smartphones, and tablets. Whether setting up a new connection or troubleshooting issues, this guide provides step-by-step instructions and tips for smooth wireless printing.

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Why Connect Your Canon Printer to WiFi?

Wireless printing offers several benefits:

  • Convenience: Print from anywhere within WiFi range.

  • Multiple Devices: Share your printer with multiple computers and mobile devices.

  • No Cables: Reduces clutter from USB or Ethernet cables.

  • Mobile Printing: Supports apps like Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY for smartphones and tablets.

Step 1: Check Printer and Router Compatibility

Before connecting, ensure your devices are compatible:

  • Most Canon printers support 2.4 GHz WiFi; some newer models support 5 GHz.

  • Ensure your router is working properly and broadcasting WiFi.

  • Make sure the printer is powered on and ready for setup.

Step 2: Prepare Your WiFi Network

  • Verify your WiFi network name (SSID) and password.

  • Ensure the signal is strong near the printer.

  • Disable firewall or VPN temporarily if they may block the connection.

Step 3: Connect Canon Printer to WiFi via Control Panel

Using Wireless LAN Setup

  1. On the printer, press the Menu or Setup button.

  2. Navigate to Wireless LAN Setup.

  3. The printer will search for available networks.

  4. Select your WiFi network from the list.

  5. Enter your WiFi password carefully.

  6. Confirm the connection. A message will indicate successful connection.

Test the Connection

  • Print a network configuration page to verify the printer is connected.

Step 4: Connect Using WPS (WiFi Protected Setup)

If your router supports WPS, this is a quick way to connect without entering a password:

  1. Press the WPS button on your router.

  2. Press the WPS button on your Canon printer.

  3. Wait for the printer to connect automatically.

  4. Confirm connection by printing a test page.

Step 5: Install Printer Drivers and Software

  • On your computer, download the latest Canon printer drivers from the Canon Support Website.

  • Install the software and select Wireless Connection during setup.

  • Add the printer to your computer’s list of devices.

Step 6: Connect Canon Printer to Mobile Devices

For printing from smartphones or tablets:

  • Download the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app from the App Store or Google Play.

  • Ensure your mobile device is on the same WiFi network as the printer.

  • Open the app and follow instructions to add your printer.

Step 7: Troubleshooting WiFi Connection Issues

Common Problems and Solutions

  • Incorrect WiFi Password: Re-enter the password carefully.

  • Weak Signal: Move the printer closer to the router.

  • IP Address Conflict: Use automatic IP assignment (DHCP) in printer settings.

  • Firmware Outdated: Update your Canon printer firmware from the official website.

  • Network Mode Mismatch: Connect to a 2.4 GHz network if your printer does not support 5 GHz.

Tips for a Stable Connection

  • Keep your printer within range of the router.

  • Avoid placing the printer near metal objects or devices that cause interference.

  • Regularly update printer firmware and drivers.

  • For multiple devices, ensure they are on the same WiFi network.

Conclusion

Connecting your Canon printer to WiFi enhances convenience and productivity. By following these steps—preparing your network, using the control panel or WPS, installing drivers, and troubleshooting—you can enjoy seamless wireless printing from computers, smartphones, and tablets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I connect my Canon printer to both WiFi and USB at the same time?

  • Yes, most Canon printers allow both connections, but printing will follow the selected method.

2. How do I check if my printer is connected to WiFi?

  • Print a network configuration page from the printer settings menu.

3. My Canon printer won’t detect my WiFi network. What should I do?

  • Move the printer closer, check router frequency (2.4 GHz), and restart both devices.

4. Can multiple devices print wirelessly to the Canon printer?

  • Yes, once connected to the WiFi network, multiple computers and mobile devices can print.

5. Do I need the Canon app for mobile printing?

  • While optional, the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app simplifies printing from smartphones and tablets.

How to Connect Canon Printer to WiFi When Setting Up a New Connection

Setting up a Canon printer on a new WiFi network allows you to enjoy wireless printing from computers, smartphones, and tablets. Whether you are using the printer at home, office, or a new location, following the correct steps ensures a smooth and stable connection. This guide provides step-by-step instructions, tips, and troubleshooting advice for setting up a new WiFi connection.

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Why Connect Your Canon Printer to a New WiFi Network?

Connecting to a new WiFi network is essential in various situations:

  • Relocation: Moving to a new home or office requires connecting to a new router.

  • New Router Installation: Upgrading or changing your WiFi network.

  • Shared Network: Connecting your printer to a network used by multiple devices.

Benefits of wireless setup include:

  • Convenience of printing without cables.

  • Multiple devices can share the printer.

  • Support for mobile printing apps like Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY.

Step 1: Prepare Your Printer and Network

Before starting the setup process, ensure you have the following:

  • Your Canon printer powered on.

  • A stable WiFi network with SSID (network name) and password.

  • Router within range of the printer.

  • Computer, smartphone, or tablet ready for driver or app installation.

Step 2: Access Wireless LAN Setup on Your Canon Printer

Most Canon printers provide a Wireless LAN Setup feature accessible via the control panel.

Steps:

  1. Press the Menu or Setup button on your printer.

  2. Navigate to Wireless LAN Setup.

  3. The printer will scan for available WiFi networks.

  4. Select your network name (SSID) from the list.

  5. Enter your WiFi password carefully.

  6. Confirm the connection. A message will indicate a successful setup.

Step 3: Using WPS to Connect (Optional)

If your router supports WPS (WiFi Protected Setup), you can connect without manually entering a password.

Steps:

  1. Press the WPS button on your router.

  2. Within 2 minutes, press the WPS button on your Canon printer.

  3. Wait for the printer to connect automatically.

  4. Confirm the connection by printing a test page.

Step 4: Install Canon Drivers and Software

To ensure your computer recognizes the printer:

  1. Visit the Canon Support Website.

  2. Enter your printer model.

  3. Download the latest drivers and software for your operating system.

  4. Run the installer and select Wireless Connection when prompted.

  5. Follow on-screen instructions to complete setup.

Step 5: Connect Mobile Devices

For printing from smartphones or tablets:

  • Download the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app from App Store or Google Play.

  • Make sure your mobile device is on the same WiFi network as the printer.

  • Open the app and follow instructions to add the printer.

  • You can now print photos, documents, or scanned files directly from your mobile device.

Step 6: Test the New WiFi Connection

After connecting your printer to the new network:

  • Print a network configuration page to confirm the printer is connected.

  • Try printing a test document from your computer and mobile device.

  • Ensure all devices can access the printer on the network.

Step 7: Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful setup, you may encounter problems. Here’s how to fix them:

Incorrect WiFi Password

  • Re-enter the correct password and ensure case sensitivity.

Weak Signal or Distance Issues

  • Move the printer closer to the router.

  • Minimize obstacles or interference from electronic devices.

IP Address Conflicts

  • Use automatic IP assignment (DHCP) to prevent conflicts.

Firmware Outdated

  • Download and install the latest firmware for your printer model.

Network Band Mismatch

  • Most Canon printers support 2.4 GHz. Ensure your router broadcasts on 2.4 GHz if 5 GHz is not supported.

Additional Tips for New WiFi Setup

  • Keep the printer and router in close proximity during setup.

  • Temporarily disable firewalls or VPNs that may block connectivity.

  • Always update the printer drivers and firmware to ensure compatibility.

  • Make a note of your network SSID and password for future reference.

Conclusion

Setting up a Canon printer on a new WiFi network is straightforward if you follow the correct steps. By preparing your network, using the control panel or WPS, installing drivers and apps, and testing the connection, you can enjoy seamless wireless printing from computers and mobile devices. Proper setup ensures a stable, long-term connection and maximizes the convenience of your Canon printer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I connect my Canon printer to a new WiFi network without reconfiguring old devices?

  • Yes, just ensure all devices are on the same new WiFi network.

2. Why does my printer fail to connect to the new network?

  • Check password accuracy, WiFi signal strength, and router compatibility.

3. Can I use WPS for a new network setup?

  • Yes, if your router supports WPS, it simplifies connection without entering passwords.

4. How do I connect my smartphone after setting up a new WiFi?

  • Use the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app on the same WiFi network.

5. What if the printer keeps disconnecting from the new WiFi?

  • Move closer to the router, reset network settings, and update firmware.

Canon IJ Wireless Printer Setup: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Setting up your Canon IJ wireless printer allows you to print from computers, smartphones, and tablets without the need for physical cables. With Canon’s advanced wireless technology, you can enjoy seamless printing and scanning over your WiFi network. This article provides a complete walkthrough of the Canon IJ wireless printer setup, troubleshooting, and tips to ensure a smooth installation.

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What is Canon IJ Wireless Printer Setup?

Canon IJ wireless setup is the process of connecting your Canon printer to a wireless network, enabling communication with multiple devices like PCs, laptops, and smartphones. Instead of relying on USB cables, the printer uses WiFi to perform print and scan tasks.

This setup is particularly useful in:

  • Homes and offices where multiple users share the same printer.

  • Mobile printing, allowing you to print directly from your phone.

  • Remote access, enabling cloud printing with Canon apps and services.

Requirements Before Starting Setup

Before beginning the wireless setup process, prepare the following:

  • A Canon IJ wireless printer (powered on).

  • A WiFi router with an active internet connection.

  • Your WiFi SSID (network name) and password.

  • A computer, smartphone, or tablet for installation.

  • Canon drivers or the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app.

Step 1: Connecting the Printer to WiFi

Canon printers offer two main ways to connect to WiFi:

Method 1: Standard Wireless LAN Setup

  1. Turn on your Canon printer.

  2. Press the Menu/Setup button.

  3. Go to Network SettingsWireless LAN Setup.

  4. The printer will search for available networks.

  5. Select your WiFi SSID.

  6. Enter the WiFi password.

  7. Confirm the connection and print a network configuration page to verify.

Method 2: WPS (WiFi Protected Setup)

  1. Press and hold the WPS button on your WiFi router.

  2. On your Canon printer, press the WPS button within 2 minutes.

  3. The printer will connect automatically to the router.

  4. Print a test page to confirm successful connection.

Step 2: Installing Canon Drivers and Software

After connecting your printer to WiFi, you need to install Canon drivers.

For Windows:

  1. Enter your printer model.

  2. Download and install the Canon IJ Setup package.

  3. Run the installer and select Wireless Connection.

  4. Follow on-screen prompts to complete setup.

For Mac:

  1. Go to ij.start.canon.

  2. Download the macOS driver for your printer.

  3. Open the installer and follow the setup instructions.

  4. Add the printer from System Preferences → Printers & Scanners.

Step 3: Mobile Device Setup

To connect your Canon IJ printer with smartphones or tablets:

Using Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY App

  1. Download the Canon PRINT app from App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).

  2. Ensure your mobile device is connected to the same WiFi as the printer.

  3. Open the app and select Add Printer.

  4. The app will detect your printer automatically.

  5. Complete setup and start printing wirelessly.

Step 4: Testing the Wireless Setup

Once setup is complete:

  • Print a test page from your computer.

  • Try printing a photo or document from your smartphone.

  • Scan a document using the Canon app or software to confirm full functionality.

Troubleshooting Canon IJ Wireless Printer Setup

Sometimes, setup may fail due to network or device issues. Here are common problems and solutions:

1. Printer Won’t Connect to WiFi

  • Double-check the WiFi password.

  • Ensure the printer supports your router’s frequency (most Canon printers work on 2.4 GHz).

  • Restart your router and printer.

2. Printer Not Detected by Computer

  • Reinstall Canon drivers.

  • Make sure the computer is connected to the same WiFi network.

  • Disable firewall/VPN temporarily.

3. Printer Keeps Disconnecting

  • Place the printer closer to the router.

  • Update printer firmware.

  • Assign a static IP address to avoid conflicts.

Benefits of Canon IJ Wireless Setup

  • Cable-free printing from anywhere in your home/office.

  • Multiple-device connectivity for shared use.

  • Mobile printing support via Canon PRINT and AirPrint/Google Cloud Print.

  • Remote access for scanning and printing through cloud services.

  • Easy sharing between workstations and personal devices.

Tips for a Smooth Wireless Setup

  • Keep your router and printer in the same room during setup.

  • Update drivers and firmware regularly.

  • Save your WiFi details for quick reconfiguration.

  • Use the Canon PRINT app for easier mobile setup.

Conclusion

The Canon IJ wireless printer setup makes printing and scanning easier, faster, and more flexible. By connecting your Canon printer to WiFi, you can enjoy wireless printing from any device without the hassle of cables. With the right drivers, apps, and setup methods (LAN or WPS), you can complete the process in just a few minutes.

Whether for home or office, Canon IJ wireless setup enhances productivity, mobility, and convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. How do I connect my Canon IJ printer to WiFi without a computer?

  • Use the printer’s control panel or Canon PRINT app on your smartphone.

Q2. Does Canon IJ wireless work on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks?

  • Most Canon printers support 2.4 GHz only. Check your model’s specifications.

Q3. What if my printer still doesn’t connect after setup?

  • Restart the printer, re-enter WiFi details, and update firmware.

Q4. Can I use Canon IJ Setup on multiple devices?

  • Yes, you can install the drivers and app on multiple PCs and mobile devices.

Q5. Is USB setup required before WiFi setup?

  • Not always. Many Canon printers allow direct WiFi setup without USB.

How to Setup Wireless Canon Printer Using ij.start.canon

Canon printers are known for their reliability, high-quality prints, and ease of use. One of the most convenient features is the ability to set up your Canon printer wirelessly, allowing you to print from laptops, desktops, and mobile devices without needing cables. The official setup portal ij.start.canon provides everything you need to install drivers, connect your printer to WiFi, and begin printing.

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What is ij.start.canon?

ij.start.canon is Canon’s official support and setup portal. It provides:

  • Printer drivers and software downloads.

  • Wireless setup instructions.

  • Firmware updates.

  • User manuals and troubleshooting resources.

Instead of relying on a CD, which may not be available on modern computers, ij.start.canon makes installation quick and accessible online.

Requirements for Wireless Setup

Before starting the setup, make sure you have:

  • A Canon wireless printer (powered on).

  • A WiFi router with internet access.

  • Your WiFi SSID (network name) and password.

  • A computer (Windows or Mac) or a mobile device.

  • Stable power supply and internet connection.

Step 1: Prepare Your Canon Printer

  1. Unbox your Canon printer and remove all packaging.

  2. Plug in the power cable and press the Power button.

  3. Load paper into the tray.

  4. Install ink cartridges if not pre-installed.

Step 2: Connect Canon Printer to WiFi

Canon offers two main ways to connect your printer wirelessly.

Method 1: Standard Wireless LAN Setup

  1. On the printer’s control panel, press the Menu or Setup button.

  2. Go to Network SettingsWireless LAN Setup.

  3. The printer will search for WiFi networks.

  4. Select your WiFi SSID.

  5. Enter your WiFi password using the printer’s keypad.

  6. Confirm connection.

Method 2: WPS (WiFi Protected Setup)

If your router supports WPS, setup becomes faster:

  1. Press the WPS button on your router.

  2. On your Canon printer, press the WPS button within 2 minutes.

  3. Wait for the printer to connect automatically.

  4. Confirm by printing a network configuration page.

Step 3: Install Canon Drivers via ij.start.canon

Once the printer is connected to WiFi, install the required drivers:

For Windows:

  1. Open a browser and go to ij.start.canon.

  2. Enter your printer model.

  3. Download the driver package for Windows.

  4. Run the installer and select Wireless Connection when prompted.

  5. Follow on-screen instructions to complete installation.

For Mac:

  1. Visit ij.start.canon.

  2. Search for your printer model.

  3. Download the macOS driver.

  4. Open the installer and follow the setup wizard.

  5. Add the printer in System Preferences → Printers & Scanners.

Step 4: Setup on Mobile Devices

Using Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY App

  1. Download the Canon PRINT app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

  2. Ensure your mobile device is connected to the same WiFi as the printer.

  3. Open the app and select Add Printer.

  4. The app will detect your printer automatically.

  5. Complete setup and start printing wirelessly.

Alternative: Apple AirPrint & Google Cloud Print

  • For iOS devices, use AirPrint for direct printing.

  • For Android devices, use Google Cloud Print or the Canon PRINT app.

Step 5: Test Wireless Setup

  • Print a test document from your computer.

  • Try printing a photo from your mobile device.

  • Perform a test scan if your printer supports scanning.

If all devices can access the printer, setup is complete.

Troubleshooting Wireless Setup

If your Canon printer won’t connect to WiFi, try these fixes:

  • Incorrect WiFi Password – Double-check and re-enter credentials.

  • Weak Signal – Move the printer closer to the router.

  • Router Issues – Restart router and printer.

  • Outdated Firmware – Download latest firmware from ij.start.canon.

  • Network Band Issue – Most Canon printers support 2.4 GHz WiFi, not 5 GHz.

Benefits of Wireless Canon Printer Setup

  • No messy cables – Print wirelessly from anywhere in your home/office.

  • Multi-device support – Connect multiple devices to one printer.

  • Mobile printing – Print from smartphones and tablets with ease.

  • Cloud printing – Access documents directly from Google Drive, iCloud, etc.

  • Space-saving – Ideal for modern workspaces.

Conclusion

Setting up your Canon printer wirelessly using ij.start.canon is simple and efficient. By following the steps—preparing your printer, connecting it to WiFi, installing drivers, and testing the setup—you’ll enjoy hassle-free printing and scanning. Whether you use a computer or mobile device, Canon’s wireless setup enhances productivity and convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can I set up my Canon printer without ij.start.canon?

  • You can use the CD provided with the printer, but ij.start.canon ensures updated drivers.

Q2. What if my Canon printer does not detect WiFi?

  • Check WiFi frequency, restart the router, and re-enter details.

Q3. Does ij.start.canon work for all Canon printer models?

  • Yes, it supports most Canon IJ printers, including PIXMA and MAXIFY series.

Q4. Can I connect my Canon printer to multiple devices?

  • Yes, once connected to WiFi, multiple PCs and mobiles can access the printer.

Q5. How long does the wireless setup take?

  • Typically, it takes 5–10 minutes depending on network speed and printer model.

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