Why Is My Canon TS3520 Printer Not Responding?
A printer is “not responding” when your device and the printer cannot talk to each other. It can also mean the printer got the job but cannot process it. Connectivity is simply the path that carries the job. That path is either a USB cable or a Wi-Fi network.
The TS3520 is an all-in-one inkjet that prints, scans, and copies. It connects by Wi-Fi or USB 2.0 and supports AirPrint, Mopria, and the Canon PRINT app. Because it leans on your home network, a small router change can break the link.
The most common causes are:
- A network mismatch, such as the printer and computer on different networks
- Power problems or a printer stuck in an error state
- A paused or stuck print queue
- A damaged or outdated driver
- A paper jam or an open cover
Connection trouble is different from ink or paper trouble. If the printer looks calm but your computer says offline, think connectivity. If pages come out blank or streaky, think ink.
The same three stages apply to every brand. Our guide on how to fix HP OfficeJet Pro 9135e not printing explains them well. Your computer builds the job, the network carries it, and the printer prints it.
Common Signs of a Canon TS3520 Communication Problem
- The printer shows offline or unavailable on your computer.
- Documents stay pending in the print queue.
- The Wi-Fi or alarm lamps flash in a pattern that suggests a connection or hardware fault. Check Canon’s manual for the exact pattern on your model.
A steady Wi-Fi light usually means the printer is on the network. A blinking light often means it is still searching, or setup did not finish. Treat blinking as a cue to recheck the Wi-Fi steps below.
How to Fix a Canon TS3520 Printer Not Responding
Start with the easy checks. Do not reinstall drivers or reset Wi-Fi until you have tried power and connection steps. Change one thing at a time, and send one test page after each step.
Here is the short version:
- Check power and basic status.
- Restart the printer and your device.
- Check the Wi-Fi connection.
- Verify the USB cable or wireless link.
- Set the TS3520 as the default printer.
- Clear the stuck print queue.
- Update or reinstall the driver.
- Run the built-in troubleshooter.
- Reconnect the printer to Wi-Fi.
1. Check the Printer’s Power and Basic Status
Plug the printer straight into a working wall outlet and turn it on. A switched-off power strip is a common culprit. The power lamp should be lit.
Check the lamps for errors. An orange Alarm lamp points to a problem such as a jam, empty tray, or ink issue. Then confirm the paper sits correctly in the rear tray. Use US Letter paper (8.5 x 11 inches) and stay under the 60-sheet limit. Close the scanner lid and cartridge cover fully.
A printer in an error state ignores new jobs. Clear the error first.
2. Restart the Canon TS3520 and Your Computer
Turn the printer off with its Power button, then unplug it for 30 seconds. Restart your computer or phone at the same time. Plug the printer back in and turn it on.
Wait until the lamps settle before you print. Then send a one-page test. If it prints, the glitch was temporary. If it does not, move on.
3. Check the Wi-Fi Connection
Confirm the printer and your device use the same network. Many homes have a main network and a guest network, and the two often cannot see each other. If other devices also struggle, restart the router. Unplug it for 30 seconds, plug it back in, and wait two to three minutes.
Compare your router settings with Canon’s TS3520 setup instructions. Do not assume every router setup works. Shared networks with many devices can add extra strain, which our guide on how to share a printer across an office network explains.
Why the 2.4 GHz Band Matters
Many routers broadcast two bands, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. The TS3520 works on the 2.4 GHz band. It cannot join a 5 GHz-only network.
If your router merges both bands under one name, setup can fail. Some routers let you split the names for a few minutes. Join the printer to the 2.4 GHz name, then merge them again if you like.
Give the Printer a Steady IP Address
Routers hand out IP addresses, which work like street addresses for devices. If the printer’s address changes, your computer may keep sending jobs to the old one. That looks like an offline printer.
Open your router settings and reserve one address for the TS3520. This is often called a DHCP reservation. It keeps the address fixed.
4. Verify the USB Cable or Wireless Connection
For USB, push the cable in firmly at both ends. Try another USB port. If you have a spare cable, swap it in.
For wireless, check that your computer did not hop to a guest network or a phone hotspot. Avoid changing several settings at once. That way you can see which change fixed the problem.
USB also makes a handy backup while you sort out Wi-Fi. Our comparison of a network printer versus a USB printer shows when each choice makes sense.
5. Set the Canon TS3520 as the Default Printer
On Windows, open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners. Select the Canon TS3520 and choose Set as default. If you see two TS3520 entries, one may be a leftover. Use the one that shows ready.
On a Mac, open System Settings > Printers & Scanners. In the print window, confirm the TS3520 is selected. Also make sure jobs do not go to a virtual PDF printer, which saves a file instead of printing.
Look for a paused printer or a wrong selection while you are there.
6. Clear the Stuck Print Queue
Open the queue and cancel all pending jobs. Check whether the printer is paused or marked offline. On Windows, open the queue and look in the Printer menu. If “Use Printer Offline” or “Pause Printing” is ticked, untick it.
Send a single test document after clearing the queue.
Restart the Print Spooler on Windows
If jobs will not cancel, the Print Spooler may be stuck. This Windows service manages the queue. Resetting it often helps.
- Press Windows + R, type
services.msc, and press Enter. - Find Print Spooler, right-click it, and choose Stop.
- Open
C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERSand delete the files inside. Keep the folder. - Return to Services, right-click Print Spooler, and choose Start.
- Print one test page.
Clear Jobs on a Mac
Open System Settings > Printers & Scanners, select the TS3520, and open its queue. Cancel each job with the X button. If the printer shows paused, resume it.
7. Update or Reinstall Canon TS3520 Drivers
A driver is software that lets your computer speak the printer’s language. A damaged or mismatched driver can stop printing cold. Download software from Canon’s official US support site. Pick your exact operating system and version first.
If the old install is corrupted, remove the printer in system settings and install it fresh with Canon’s recommended setup. The same remove and re-add method appears in our fix for HP Envy 6155e not printing issues.
Skip third-party driver sites and unknown support phone numbers. Stick with Canon’s own pages.
8. Run the Built-In Printer Troubleshooter
On Windows 11, open Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters and run the Printer tool. On Windows 10, look under Update & Security > Troubleshoot. Menu names change between updates, so search “printer troubleshooter” if you do not see it.
On macOS, review printer status, available software, and system settings. Options vary by version. Apply the recommended fixes, then print a test page before trying anything advanced.
9. Reconnect the Printer to Wi-Fi
If nothing else worked, rebuild the wireless link. Canon lists a push-button method called WPS on its TS3520 WPS setup page. Hold the Wireless select button until the Network status icon flashes. Then press the WPS button on your router within two minutes.
When setup finishes, the network status and signal strength icons light up. If the Alarm lamp lights instead, use Canon’s troubleshooting steps.
If WPS fails, repeat setup with Canon’s setup software on a computer, or use the Canon PRINT app on a phone. Our guide to HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e Wi-Fi connection issues shows a similar rejoin routine. Afterward, check that your device can find the printer.
Troubleshooting Comparison Table: Canon TS3520 Not Responding
Use this table to match your symptom to a first fix. Try that fix, and move on to advanced steps only if it fails.
| Problem or symptom | Possible cause | Recommended fix | Priority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Printer shows offline | Communication interruption or incorrect status | Check connection and printer status | High |
| Wi-Fi printing fails | Network mismatch or wireless setup issue | Verify network and reconnect | High |
| USB printing fails | Loose or faulty cable or port | Reconnect or test another cable | High |
| Print jobs are stuck | Queue or spooler issue | Clear the queue and retry | High |
| Printer is not detected | Missing or corrupted driver | Reinstall the official Canon software | Medium |
| Documents print slowly | Network congestion or large files | Check connection and simplify the test job | Medium |
| Blank pages or faded output | Ink supply, printhead, or cartridge issue | Check ink levels and follow maintenance guidance | Medium |
| Printer displays an error | Paper jam, cover, or other hardware condition | Inspect the indicated area and consult the manual | High |
Sorting symptoms first saves time. It also keeps you from buying parts you do not need. If spec sheets confuse you, read printer specifications explained for beginners.
How to Fix Canon TS3520 Not Responding on Windows
Confirm the TS3520 is selected in Windows printer settings and is not paused or offline. Next, check the queue, the Print Spooler, the driver, and Windows updates. If you print over Wi-Fi, verify network access before you reinstall anything.
Fix Canon TS3520 Not Responding on Windows 11
Open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners and select the TS3520. Review its status and run the troubleshooter. If Windows kept an old connection, choose Remove, then Add device to add it again.
Install compatible software from Canon’s support page if Windows cannot find a driver.
Fix Canon TS3520 Not Responding on Windows 10
Open Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners. Open the queue, clear jobs, and confirm the right printer is the default. Restart the Print Spooler if jobs stay stuck.
Also confirm the installed driver matches your Windows version, whether 32-bit or 64-bit.
Mac Users: Fix a Canon TS3520 That Is Not Responding
Check the selected printer, connection status, and macOS printer settings. If the setup looks wrong, remove the printer with the minus button. Then add it again with the plus button.
You may see two entries for one printer, one using AirPrint and one using a Canon driver. Pick one and delete the other. Download Canon software if needed, and confirm your macOS version supports the TS3520.
Reset the Mac Printing System if Necessary
Try simple remedies first. Restart the printer and clear pending jobs. If the problem stays, consider resetting the printing system.
Control-click the printer list and look for Reset printing system. The option varies by macOS version. A reset removes all printers and queues, so you must add the TS3520 again.
Wireless Printing Problems: Fix a Canon TS3520 That Will Not Respond
Wi-Fi trouble comes from router blips, split networks, and devices that cannot discover the printer. Confirm the printer is on the intended network. Then confirm your computer or phone can reach it.
Follow Canon’s official setup steps. Do not rely on random button combinations from forums, because they may wipe your settings.
Canon TS3520 Not Connecting to Wi-Fi
Check that the router is on and the Wi-Fi password is correct. Confirm the router offers a 2.4 GHz band with common security such as WPA2. Move the printer closer to the router during setup. Thick walls and appliances weaken the signal.
On related Canon PIXMA models, a lit orange Alarm lamp with a flashing blue Wi-Fi lamp points to a router or security setting issue. If the printer lost its network settings, repeat setup.
Phone Printing Fails: Canon TS3520 Not Responding from a Phone
Your phone and printer must share the same Wi-Fi network. Turn off any VPN, because it can block local printing. On iPhone, tap Share > Print > Select Printer for AirPrint. On Android, use the Mopria Print Service or the Canon PRINT app.
Test a small photo or document. That shows whether the problem hits every job or only one app. For setup basics, see our guide on how to print from a phone at home.
Check Ink, Paper, and Print Quality Problems
A printer can respond to commands and still give you bad pages. Low ink, crooked paper, or a feed problem can all ruin output. Check ink status, paper guides, cartridge seating, and any error lamps.
The TS3520 uses two cartridges, a PG-275 black and a CL-276 tri-color. Higher-capacity XL versions exist. Knowing how inkjet printers work helps you read the symptoms.
Use Canon’s maintenance tools for cleaning or alignment when output looks faded, streaked, or uneven.
Blank Pages From a Canon TS3520
Check ink levels and press both cartridges in until they click. Remove any protective tape. Then run a nozzle check to see if the print head is clogged.
If it is, run one cleaning cycle and check the result. Avoid repeated cleaning cycles. Each one uses ink, and inkjet printer running costs add up quickly.
Paper Jam or Error Light on the Canon TS3520
Pull out any accessible jammed paper slowly and gently. Follow the printer manual. Look for torn scraps along the paper path, and reload paper within the tray’s capacity.
Read Canon’s error indicator guidance before you attempt any reset. The flash pattern tells you what the printer found.
When Should You Reset or Replace the Canon TS3520?
Reset only after simpler connection and software fixes fail, and only if Canon’s instructions support it. A network reset erases your wireless settings. You will need to set the printer up again.
Consider repair or replacement if hardware faults keep returning, paper feeding stays poor, or repair costs make the printer impractical. The TS3520 is an older model. Some US retailers now list it as no longer available, so check ink supply before deciding.
What to Look for in a Replacement Printer
Match the printer to how you print. Start with what type of printer you need for home use. Then review what printer features actually matter so you do not pay for extras.
First-time buyers can follow our guide to choosing a printer for the first time. If you scan and copy often, an all-in-one is the right fit.
PPM, DPI, and Duty Cycle in Plain English
PPM means pages per minute. It measures speed. Canon lists the TS3520 at up to about 7.7 images per minute for black documents, and color is slower.
DPI means dots per inch. It measures detail. The TS3520 reaches up to 4800 x 1200 dpi, but a bigger number does not always mean better output, as printer resolution explained in simple terms shows.
Duty cycle is the most pages a printer can handle in a month. Stay well below it. See how many pages an office printer can handle monthly for the difference between the maximum and the recommended volume.
Connectivity means how the printer links up. Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet are common. Ethernet is the steadiest for shared use.
Is It Worth Repairing the Canon TS3520?
Compare the repair quote with the price of a new printer. A handy rule of thumb says replace it when repair costs near half the price of a new one. Entry-level cartridge printers often cost about $50 to $120. Ink-tank models run about $199 to $450, per our guide to the best refillable inkjet printer for families.
Then think about monthly pages, ink costs, Wi-Fi reliability, and how much you need scanning. Judge total cost of ownership, not only the sticker price. Why cheap printers can cost more over time shows how ink adds up, and how much you should spend on a printer sets a sensible budget.
Shop and compare at Amazon, Best Buy, and Staples. A best affordable all-in-one printer can be a smart swap for a TS3520.
Ways to Prevent Canon TS3520 Printer Problems
Keep printer software and drivers current, and download them only from official sources. Keep your Wi-Fi stable and avoid needless changes to router or printer settings. Reserve a fixed IP address for the printer, as shown in step 3.
Use proper paper, watch your ink levels, and follow Canon’s maintenance advice. Inkjet nozzles can dry out when a printer sits idle. Many users print one short test page every week or two to prevent that.
Update router firmware and use WPA2 security too. Our office printer security basics apply to home printers as well. And if you print rarely, how often people actually use home printers may reassure you.
Reduce Printing Costs and Maintain Print Quality
Compare cartridge costs using cost per page. Divide the cartridge price by its rated page yield. For example, a $30 cartridge rated for 300 pages costs about 10 cents per page. That price is only an illustration, so check current prices.
Real yield changes with page coverage, print settings, and habits. XL cartridges often cost less per page than standard ones. Use standard quality for everyday documents, and save high quality for photos.
For more ideas, read how to reduce home printing costs and save money. Also see which home printer saves the most money on ink, and learn how to calculate printing costs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why is my Canon TS3520 printer not responding?
Common causes include connection issues, the wrong printer selection, stuck print jobs, and driver problems. Begin with power, connection, and printer status checks.
2. How do I get my Canon TS3520 back online?
Verify the connection and pick the TS3520 in your printer settings. Clear stuck jobs, untick “Use Printer Offline,” and reconnect the printer if needed.
3. Why is my Canon TS3520 connected to Wi-Fi but not printing?
Your computer may be on a different network, or the printer may be unreachable. The queue may also be stuck. Verify network access, then send a fresh test job.
4. How do I reset my Canon TS3520 printer?
Follow the reset steps in Canon’s official manual for your exact problem. Decide whether you need to reset wireless settings or use another supported recovery step. Remember that a network reset wipes your Wi-Fi details.
5. Why does my Canon TS3520 keep going offline?
Weak Wi-Fi, sleep behavior, router changes, or software settings can break the link. Check network stability and reserve a fixed IP address. Recreate the printer entry if needed.
6. How do I fix a Canon TS3520 that is not responding on Windows 11?
Check printer status, clear the queue, and run the troubleshooter. Remove and re-add the printer. Reinstall compatible Canon software if the issue continues.
7. Why is my Canon TS3520 not printing from my phone?
The phone may not share the printer’s network, or the app may need setup. Turn off any VPN and verify the wireless setup. Try AirPrint, Mopria, or the Canon PRINT app.
8. Can outdated Canon TS3520 drivers cause printing problems?
Yes. Incompatible, missing, or corrupted drivers can stop your computer from talking to the printer. Get compatible drivers from Canon’s official support site.
9. Why does my Canon TS3520 print blank pages even though it responds?
Low ink, poorly seated cartridges, or clogged nozzles can cause it. Check ink status and run the right maintenance procedure.
10. Should I repair or replace my Canon TS3520 if it still does not respond?
Compare repair cost, printer age, and the price of a replacement. If it fails again after documented troubleshooting, seek professional help or replace it. Avoid common printer buying mistakes when you shop.
Conclusion: Get Your Canon TS3520 Printing Again
The most effective fixes are simple. Check power and connections, verify printer status, clear the queue, and update or reinstall drivers when needed. Most problems end there.
Always work out whether the trouble comes from wireless communication, computer settings, or printer hardware. That focus saves time and money. Check Canon’s official documentation before any advanced reset or maintenance task.
If your TS3520 has reached the end of its useful life, compare low running cost office printers and read the advantages and disadvantages of inkjet printers. For a sound sense of cost, see cheap printer versus low-cost printing.
PrintPrime360 follows its editorial policy and fact-checking policy on every guide.
