Canon imageCLASS LBP172dw Scanner Not Working, How to Fix It

Trying to scan a document only to find that your Canon imageCLASS LBP172dw is not responding can be frustrating. Many Windows users run into problems like the scanner not being detected, scan jobs failing, error messages appearing, or the scanner staying offline even though the printer works fine. In some cases, the scanner button does nothing at all.

These problems are often caused by outdated or missing printer software, especially after a Windows 10 or Windows 11 update. The good news is that most scanner issues can be fixed in just a few steps. This guide walks you through the easiest ways to get your Canon imageCLASS LBP172dw scanner working again.

Quick Fix Checklist

Before trying advanced fixes, go through this quick checklist:

• Restart the printer and your computer
• Make sure the USB or WiFi connection is stable
• Confirm the scanner appears in Windows Settings
• Remove stuck scan jobs
• Install updated printer and scanner software
• Check for recent Windows updates
• Verify the Canon imageCLASS LBP172dw is set as the default scanner

If the scanner still does not work, continue with the methods below.

Why the Canon imageCLASS LBP172dw Scanner Stops Working

Your printer relies on software to communicate with Windows. This software tells the operating system how to send scan requests, recognize the scanner hardware, and transfer scanned files to your computer.

When this software becomes outdated, corrupted, or missing, Windows may no longer recognize the scanner properly. You may see issues such as:

• Scanner not detected
• Scanner offline
• Cannot connect to scanner
• Scanner driver unavailable
• Scan failed error
• Printer works but scanner does not

Windows updates can also interrupt scanner communication. After an update, Windows may replace working files with generic versions that do not fully support the Canon imageCLASS LBP172dw.

Network changes can create problems too, especially for wireless printers. If the printer receives a new IP address from your router, scanning may stop working until the connection is refreshed.

Method 1, Use DriverAssist for the Fastest Fix

For most users, the easiest way to fix scanner problems is by using DriverAssist. It helps detect outdated or missing printer software automatically and installs the correct files for your Windows version.

This method is recommended first because it saves time and reduces the risk of installing the wrong files.

Download DriverAssist here:

DriverAssist Download

How to Use DriverAssist

1. Download and install DriverAssist
2. Open the program after installation
3. Run a scan on your computer
4. Wait while it checks your printer and scanner software
5. Follow the prompts to install updated Canon imageCLASS LBP172dw software
6. Restart your computer after installation finishes

After restarting, try scanning again using the Windows Scan app or Canon scanning software.

Why This Method Works

DriverAssist checks for missing or outdated scanner files that may prevent Windows from communicating with the printer correctly. It also helps match the proper software to your exact version of Windows 10 or Windows 11.

Many users fix scanner problems in minutes using this method because it removes the need to search manually for the correct files.

Method 2, Download Scanner Software from the Canon Website

If you prefer the manual method, you can download the correct scanner software directly from Canon.

This process takes longer but gives you more control over installation.

Step 1, Find Your Exact Printer Model

Make sure the model number is exactly:

Canon imageCLASS LBP172dw

Even small differences in the model name can cause compatibility problems.

Step 2, Choose the Correct Windows Version

Before downloading, check whether your computer uses:

• Windows 10 64 bit
• Windows 11 64 bit

To check this:

1. Open Settings
2. Click System
3. Select About
4. Look under System Type

Choosing the wrong Windows version can cause installation errors or scanner failures.

Step 3, Download the Scanner Package

On the Canon support page, look for:

• Scanner software
• MF Scan Utility
• Full software package
• Printer and scanner software bundle

Avoid downloading unrelated utilities unless needed.

Step 4, Install the Software

1. Close all open programs
2. Run the downloaded installer
3. Follow the installation prompts
4. Restart your computer after setup

Once complete, reconnect your printer and test the scanner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many users accidentally install:

• The wrong printer model
• 32 bit software on a 64 bit system
• Printer only software without scanner support

Another common mistake is skipping the restart after installation. Restarting helps Windows load the new scanner files correctly.

Method 3, Update the Scanner Through Device Manager

Windows Device Manager can sometimes help repair scanner communication problems.

This method works best when the scanner appears in Windows but is not functioning properly.

Steps for Windows 10 and Windows 11

1. Right click the Start button
2. Select Device Manager
3. Expand Printers or Imaging Devices
4. Find Canon imageCLASS LBP172dw
5. Right click the device
6. Choose Update Driver
7. Select Search automatically for drivers

If Windows finds updated files, install them and restart your computer.

How to Identify the Correct Scanner Device

Sometimes the scanner may appear under:

• Imaging Devices
• Printers
• Other Devices
• Universal Serial Bus Controllers

If you see a yellow warning icon, the software may be corrupted or missing.

Limitations of Device Manager

Device Manager does not always locate the latest Canon scanner software. In many cases, Windows installs only basic files that lack full scanner features.

If this method fails, using DriverAssist or downloading software manually from Canon is usually more effective.

How to Fix Scanner Offline Errors

If your Canon imageCLASS LBP172dw scanner appears offline, try these fixes:

Restart the Print Spooler Service

1. Press Windows Key + R
2. Type services.msc
3. Press Enter
4. Locate Print Spooler
5. Right click and select Restart

Reconnect the Printer to WiFi

Wireless scanner issues often happen after router resets.

Reconnect the printer by:

1. Opening the printer network settings
2. Selecting your WiFi network
3. Entering the WiFi password again

After reconnecting, restart the computer and printer.

Remove and Re Add the Printer

1. Open Settings
2. Select Bluetooth and Devices
3. Click Printers and Scanners
4. Remove the Canon imageCLASS LBP172dw
5. Restart the computer
6. Add the printer again

This refreshes the scanner connection in Windows.

Fix Scan Jobs That Are Stuck

A stuck scan queue can prevent new scans from starting.

Clear the Queue

1. Turn off the printer
2. Open File Explorer
3. Go to:
   C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS
4. Delete any pending files
5. Restart the printer and computer

You may need administrator permission to delete these files.

Windows 11 Scanner Problems

Windows 11 introduced changes that affected some older scanner connections.

Common Windows 11 scanner issues include:

• Scanner not detected after updates
• Missing scanner menu
• Scan button not responding
• Wireless scanning failure

Installing updated scanner software usually resolves these issues quickly.

Windows 10 Scanner Problems

Windows 10 users may experience:

• Scanner unavailable messages
• Scan application crashes
• Scanner appearing offline
• Slow scanner detection

These problems often appear after security updates or interrupted installations.

Reinstalling the scanner software normally fixes the issue.

Why This Problem Keeps Coming Back

Scanner issues often return because Windows updates frequently change device communication settings.

Other common causes include:

• Interrupted software updates
• Network changes
• Corrupted scanner files
• Generic Windows printer software
• Incomplete installations

If your scanner works temporarily and then fails again, outdated software is usually the reason.

Keep Printer Software Updated Automatically

Keeping your Canon imageCLASS LBP172dw software updated helps prevent future scanner problems.

Automatic update tools can:

• Detect outdated scanner files
• Install compatible Windows 10 and Windows 11 versions
• Reduce communication problems
• Prevent scanner offline errors

Regular updates help maintain reliable scanning and printing without repeated troubleshooting.

Additional Tips to Improve Scanner Reliability

Use a Stable WiFi Connection

Weak wireless signals can interrupt scan jobs. Place the printer closer to the router if possible.

Avoid USB Hubs

Connect the printer directly to the computer instead of through a USB hub.

Install Windows Updates Carefully

After major Windows updates, check that your scanner still works properly.

Restart Devices Regularly

Restarting both the printer and computer can clear temporary communication problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Canon imageCLASS LBP172dw scanner not detected?

This usually happens because the scanner software is outdated, corrupted, or incompatible with your Windows version.

Why does the printer work but the scanner does not?

Printing and scanning use different software components. The printer portion may work while the scanner files fail.

How do I fix scanner offline problems in Windows 11?

Restart the printer, reconnect WiFi, update scanner software, and remove then re add the printer in Windows settings.

Can Windows updates break scanner connections?

Yes. Some Windows updates replace manufacturer software with generic files that may not fully support the scanner.

Is Device Manager enough to fix scanner issues?

Sometimes, but it often installs only basic files. Dedicated scanner software usually works better.

What is the fastest way to fix Canon scanner problems?

Using DriverAssist is often the quickest solution because it automatically finds and installs the correct software.

Final Thoughts

Scanner problems with the Canon imageCLASS LBP172dw are usually caused by outdated or damaged software, especially after Windows updates. Common issues include scanner offline errors, failed scan jobs, and Windows not recognizing the scanner.

Most users can solve the problem quickly by updating the scanner software using DriverAssist, downloading files manually from Canon, or updating through Device Manager. Keeping your printer software updated regularly can also help prevent future scanner problems from returning.