This software you need in order to scan may already be installed on your computer. Before you download and install the software, let's check to see if it's already on the computer and ready to use.
To check if the software is already installed, look in these places:
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On a Windows 10 / 11 computer: From the Start menu (lower left corner of the screen), select All Apps > Canon Utilities > IJ Scan Utility. If you don't see this, type IJ Scan Utility in the search bar.
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On a Windows 8 / 8.1 computer: Select IJ Scan Utility on the Start screen (lower left corner of the screen). If IJ Scan Utility doesn't display, select the Search charm, then search for IJ Scan Utility.
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On a Windows 7 computer: From the Start menu (lower left corner of the screen), select All Programs > Canon Utilities > IJ Scan Utility > IJ Scan Utility.
If the IJ Scan Utility does not appear in these locations, it has not yet been installed on your computer. Proceed to the next step to download and install the MP Drivers, and in doing so, acquire the IJ Scan Utility.
Download and install the MP Drivers/IJ Scan Utility
Follow these steps to start the download process:
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Go to the Canon USA Support page.
Because this article applies to many printer models, the above link will take you to the page that allows you to enter your specific printer model number. Model names differ by country, and only U.S. models will appear.
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Enter your printer/scanner model in the search box under Canon Support.
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When your model name appears, click it. This will take you to the specific support page for your printer/scanner.
In this example, the PIXMA G3260 is used.
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Choose Software & Drivers.
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Your computer's operating system will be automatically detected. If it is not detected, select it from the drop down menus to show the available drivers and software for your model.
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Scroll down until you locate the MP Drivers or the Driver Setup Package for your model. When you see them, click Download.
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Once the download is complete, double-click the file to begin installation. Learn where to find the file if you are unable to locate it. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the MP Drivers. When you have finished the installation process, you will then be able to find and open the IJ Scan Utility to initiate scans.
Find and open the IJ Scan Utility
Follow these steps to open and run the IJ Scan Utility:
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Windows 10 / 11: From the Start menu, select All Apps > Canon Utilities > IJ Scan Utility. If you don't see this, type IJ Scan Utility in the search bar.
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Windows 8 / 8.1: Select IJ Scan Utility on the Start screen. If IJ Scan Utility doesn't display, select the Search charm, then search for IJ Scan Utility.
- Windows 7 / Windows Vista / Windows XP: From the Start menu, select All Programs > Canon Utilities > IJ Scan Utility > IJ Scan Utility.
Once the IJ Scan Utility is open, be sure that your device is listed at the top of the window. Place your photo or document on the scanner, and then choose either Photo or Document on the IJ Scan Utility to initiate the scan.
If you'd like more information on the IJ Scan Utility, this video may help.
Network environment
If you have more than one scanner or have changed from a USB connection to a network connection, you'll need to set the network environment from the IJ Scan Utility. Learn how to set network scan settings. You can also visit this article to learn how to use the IJ Scan Utility.
If your product issue was not resolved after following the steps above, or if you require additional help, please create or log in to your Canon Account to see your technical support options.
Or if you still need help, visit our Canon Community by clicking the button below to get answers:
