Setting up your Canon printer for network scanning on Windows 10 can sometimes be a bit tricky. Users, especially those with models like the Canon MF4880dw, have reported facing challenges in getting the network scan feature to work correctly after upgrading to Windows 10. Often, the issue arises during the driver installation process, specifically when choosing a network connection. Let’s explore a simple yet effective method to configure your Canon printer for seamless network scanning on your Windows 10 system.
The Network Scanning Challenge: “This computer is not assigned with a valid IP address” Error
During the initial driver installation from the Canon website, you might encounter a roadblock when selecting a network connection. A common error message that pops up is “This computer is not assigned with a valid IP address.” This message prevents the installation from proceeding and can leave you without the essential “Canon MF Network Scan Utility“. Consequently, applications like ScanGear or Toolbox might fail to detect your scanner over the network, even though printing wirelessly works perfectly fine.
Choosing a USB connection during the initial driver installation might seem like a workaround, and it does install the basic print and scan drivers. However, it often skips the installation of the crucial “Canon MF Network Scan Utility,” which is necessary for network scanning. This means while you can scan via a USB cable, the convenience of network scanning remains elusive.
A Straightforward Solution: USB Installation Followed by Network Printer Configuration
Fortunately, there’s a simple and effective fix to properly configure your Canon printer for network scanning. This method involves initially installing the driver using a USB connection and then setting up the printer for network use through Windows settings. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Install the Canon Driver via USB Connection
Begin by downloading the full driver package for your Canon printer model from the official Canon support website. When prompted during the installation process, choose the USB connection method, even if you intend to use the printer primarily over the network. Complete the driver installation as instructed, ensuring your printer is connected to your computer via USB cable during this process. This step will install the core drivers and software components, including those necessary for network functionality, even if they are not immediately configured for network use.
Step 2: Configure Network Connection through Windows 10 Settings
Once the USB installation is complete, disconnect the USB cable from your printer and computer. Now, let Windows 10 handle the network configuration.
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Open Settings: Click on the Windows Start Menu and select the “Settings” icon (gear icon).
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Navigate to Devices: In the Settings window, click on “Devices.”
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Add Printer & Scanner: In the “Devices” menu, select “Printers & scanners” from the left sidebar. Then, click the “+ Add a printer or scanner” button.
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Wait for Automatic Detection: Windows will start searching for available printers on your network. Initially, it might not find your printer immediately. Be patient and wait for the “The printer that I want isn’t listed” link to appear.
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Select “Add a printer using a TCP/IP address or hostname”: Click on “The printer that I want isn’t listed.” In the “Add Printer” dialog, choose the option “Add a printer using a TCP/IP address or hostname” and click “Next.”
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Enter Printer’s IP Address: You’ll need to find your printer’s IP address. This is usually found in your printer’s network settings menu (refer to your Canon printer’s manual for instructions on how to find the IP address). Enter the IP address in the “Hostname or IP address” field. Windows should automatically detect the printer driver you installed earlier via USB. Click “Next” and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the network printer setup.
Step 3: Verify Network Scanning Functionality
After completing these steps, restart your computer and printer. Once both are back online, attempt to scan using the network scan feature. Open the Canon MF Scan Utility or Toolbox software. It should now be able to detect your scanner over the network, allowing you to scan wirelessly without any issues.
By following these simple steps, you can effectively configure your Canon printer for network scanning on Windows 10, even if you initially encounter the “invalid IP address” error. This method ensures that all necessary software components are installed and correctly configured for seamless network scanning.
