How to Fix Canon MF452dw Printer Offline Error on Computer? (Steps Guide)

Lary Whitney
4 days ago
4 min read

Imagine you urgently send a document to your Canon MF452dw printer, but it suddenly shows an ‘offline’ error. It’s frustrating, isn’t it? I have dealt with this issue a few times until I finally learned how to fix it. If you are in the same situation, don’t worry — I am going to share the right methods to resolve this printer offline problem quickly.

The main causes of this error can range from minor connection issues to major software glitches. Since you may not always know the exact cause, it’s best to begin with basic troubleshooting methods. If the issue persists, then move on to advanced fixes. This step-by-step approach keeps things simple and avoids the confusion that often comes with jumping straight to advanced troubleshooting — especially for beginners.

Basic Fix 1: Check the Printer Power

This is the most basic step. Check if the printer is turned on properly using these steps:

Check if the printer’s power button is flashing. If not, press the power button to turn it on.
Check if the power cable of the printer is well connected to the main power switch on the wall.
Disconnect the power cable from both ends, and reconnect it. Again, press the power button to turn it on.

This step is not deep troubleshooting, but it helps confirm whether further steps are necessary. Sometimes, the small things cause issues, and we have to address them.

Basic Fix 2: Power Cycle the Canon Printer

Power cycling a printer means turning it off first and then turning it back on. This is the common trick we use to fix all devices. You may have already tried this step, but I’ll still guide you clearly from the beginning.

Press the power button on the Canon printer to turn it off.
Disconnect the power cable from the main power switch on the wall.
Reconnect the cable to the power source after 30 seconds.
Press the power button to turn the Canon printer on.

This method might work, and the printer may come online once again. Check if the printer has any changes. If the issue persists, try another method.

Basic Fix 3: Restart the Wi-Fi Router

If you’re using Wi-Fi, the issue may be with your router. Use these steps to restart the router:

Start by disconnecting the Wi-Fi router or modem from the power source.
Reconnect them after 30 seconds.

Let the connection settle for a few minutes, and check if the Canon printer is still showing offline. If the problem persists, it’s the right time to opt for advanced methods.

Advance Fix 1: Restart the Print Spooler Service

Sometimes, a fault in the Windows Print Spooler service can cause your Canon printer to go offline. The print spooler service is a special feature in the Windows computer that manages incoming print jobs and sends them to the printer. In short, it acts as a mediator between the computer and the printer. When it’s faulty, a Canon printer might show an offline status despite being well-connected. Here are the steps to restart this feature:

Press the Windows and R keys on the keyboard and type Services. Press Enter to open the Services window.
Scroll through the list until the Print Spooler appears.
Right-click on it and select Restart.
Right-click again and select Properties this time.
Ensure the Startup type is set as automatic; click OK to save the settings.

Finally, try to print again with your Canon MF452dw printer. If the printer is still showing offline, try the next method.

Advanced Fix 2: Update the Printer Drivers

Printer drivers are the software that helps a printer and a computer communicate with each other. When they are out of date, the printer might go offline and won’t print at all. You can fix this issue by updating the printer drivers.

Open the Run box by pressing the Windows and R keys together.
Type devmgmt.msc in the search field, and click OK.
Locate your Canon MF452dw printer under Printers or Print Queues.
Right-click on it and select Uninstall.
Visit support.usa.canon.com on an internet browser and select the Support section at the top.
Enter your printer model in the search bar and choose your operating system from the expanded menu.
Select a suitable printer driver package under the Software & Drivers section.
Let it download on the computer and go to the Downloads folder.
Locate the driver’s file, and double-click on it.
Click the Run option to run that file and let the installation begin.

That’s “How to Update the Canon Printer Drivers” to get the printer back online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Is Updating Canon Printer Drivers Important?

Updating Canon printer drivers is important because it improves performance, fixes bugs, and ensures smooth communication between your printer and computer. Regular updates also address common technical issues, resolve security vulnerabilities, and provide better stability. Canon periodically releases the latest driver versions to enhance overall printer performance and keep your device running smoothly.

What Makes My Canon MF452dw Go Offline?

A Canon printer may go offline when its connection is weak, whether USB or Wi-Fi. Apart from that, a weak internet connection, out-of-date printer drivers, and a fault in the print spooler service can also make this printer go offline.

How Do I Bring My Canon Printer from Offline to Online Status?

To bring the Canon printer back online, start by checking its connection. Ensure that it’s well-connected to the Wi-Fi or USB. Ensure that its printer drivers are up to date. Plus, restart the print spooler service on your computer.