Say Goodbye to Complicated Setups: How To Install Canon Printer In Ubuntu 20.04 – A Step-by-Step Tutorial

Are you a proud owner of a Canon printer and a dedicated Ubuntu 20.04 user? If you’re looking for a seamless way to connect your printer to your Linux machine, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of how to install Canon printer in Ubuntu 20.04, covering everything from identifying your printer model to troubleshooting common issues.

1. Identifying Your Canon Printer Model

Before embarking on the installation journey, the first step is to determine the exact model of your Canon printer. This information is crucial for choosing the right drivers and configuration settings. You can usually find the model number on a sticker attached to your printer or in its user manual.

2. Downloading the Appropriate Drivers

Once you know your printer model, you need to download the corresponding drivers. Canon provides a wealth of resources for Ubuntu users, including dedicated drivers and software packages. Here’s where you can find them:

• Canon Website: Visit the official Canon website and navigate to the “Support” or “Downloads” section. Search for your printer model and select Ubuntu 20.04 as your operating system.
• Ubuntu Software Center: The Ubuntu Software Center often offers pre-built packages for popular Canon printer models. Search for your printer model within the center.

3. Installing the Drivers

After downloading the drivers, follow these steps to install them:
1. Open the Terminal: Press `Ctrl + Alt + T` to open the terminal window.
2. Navigate to the Download Directory: Use the `cd` command to navigate to the directory where you saved the downloaded driver package. For instance, if the package is in your Downloads folder, type `cd Downloads`.
3. Extract the Driver Package: Most driver packages come in compressed formats like .tar.gz or .zip. Extract the contents using the `tar` command. For example, if the package is named `canon-printer-drivers.tar.gz`, use the command `tar -xzvf canon-printer-drivers.tar.gz`.
4. Install the Drivers: The extracted files will contain instructions for installation. Typically, you’ll need to run a setup script or use the `dpkg` command to install the drivers. For example, if the setup script is named `install.sh`, run the command `sudo ./install.sh`.

4. Configuring Your Printer in Ubuntu

With the drivers installed, it’s time to configure your Canon printer in Ubuntu. This step involves adding the printer to your system and setting up its connection type.
1. Open the Printer Settings: Click on the “Settings” icon in the top right corner of your Ubuntu desktop. Then, select “Printers”.
2. Add a New Printer: Click on the “Add” button and choose “Network Printer“.
3. Discover Your Printer: Ubuntu will automatically scan your network for available printers. Select your Canon printer from the list.
4. Choose the Driver: Ubuntu will try to automatically detect the correct driver. If it fails, you can manually select the driver you installed earlier.
5. Set a Name and Location: Give your printer a descriptive name and choose a convenient location for it in the printer list.
6. Test the Connection: Print a test page to ensure everything is working correctly.

5. Wireless Connection Setup

If you’re connecting your Canon printer wirelessly, you’ll need to configure its wireless settings. Here’s how:
1. Access the Printer’s Settings: Press the “Menu” or “Settings” button on your printer’s control panel.
2. Navigate to the Wireless Settings: Look for a section called “Wireless Setup“, “Network”, or “LAN”.
3. Connect to Your Wi-Fi Network: Select your home or office Wi-Fi network from the list and enter the password if prompted.
4. Check the Connection: Once connected, print a test page to ensure the wireless connection is working.

6. Troubleshooting Common Issues

While the installation process is generally straightforward, you might encounter some common issues. Here are some solutions:

• Driver Compatibility: If you’re using an older printer model, you might need to find older drivers compatible with Ubuntu 20.04. Check the Canon website for drivers specific to your printer model.
• Network Connection Problems: Ensure your printer and computer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Check your router’s settings to make sure the printer is allowed on the network.
• Printing Errors: If you encounter printing errors, try restarting both your printer and computer. If the issue persists, check the printer’s status messages for more information.

7. Optimizing Your Printing Experience

Once your Canon printer is successfully installed, you can further optimize your printing experience:

• Print Quality Settings: Explore the print dialog box in your applications to adjust print quality, paper size, and other settings.
• Paper Tray Management: Configure your printer to use the correct paper tray for different paper types.
• Energy Saving Features: Enable energy-saving modes in your printer’s settings to reduce power consumption.

Embracing the Power of Print: A Final Thought

Installing a Canon printer in Ubuntu 20.04 is a rewarding experience that opens up a world of possibilities for printing, scanning, and copying. By following this comprehensive guide, you can overcome any hurdles and enjoy a seamless printing experience. Remember to consult the official Canon documentation for specific instructions related to your printer model.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Can I use a USB cable to connect my Canon printer to Ubuntu 20.04?
A: Yes, you can use a USB cable to connect your Canon printer to Ubuntu 20.04. However, you’ll need to install the appropriate drivers for USB connectivity.
Q: What if the Ubuntu Software Center doesn‘t have drivers for my Canon printer?
A: If the Ubuntu Software Center doesn‘t have drivers for your specific Canon printer model, you can always download them directly from the Canon website.
Q: My printer is not showing up in the list of available printers. What can I do?
A: Make sure your printer is turned on and connected to your network. If you’re using a wired connection, check the cable for any loose connections. If you’re using a wireless connection, ensure your printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your computer.
Q: How can I fix printing errors?
A: If you encounter printing errors, try restarting both your printer and computer. Check the printer’s status messages for more information. You can also try reinstalling the drivers or checking for updates.
Q: Can I scan documents using my Canon printer in Ubuntu 20.04?
A: Yes, most Canon printers with scanning capabilities can be used for scanning in Ubuntu 20.04. You’ll need to install the appropriate drivers and software for scanning. You can typically access the scanning features through the printer’s settings or a dedicated scanning application.