How to check for Canon updates on your device
Canon releases software updates for cameras, printers, and scanners throughout the year. The way you find them depends on what device you own. Most Canon devices let you check for updates in two places: directly on the device itself, or through Canon's support website using your model number.
For cameras, the update check is usually in the menu system. Look for a section called "Firmware" or "System Software" — the exact location varies by model. For printers and scanners, updates often come through a desktop process that came with your device, or through Canon's printer software if you installed it on your computer.
The fastest route is usually Canon's official support site. Go to canon.com, search for your exact model number (you'll find it on the device itself or in the manual), and look for a "Downloads" or "Drivers & Software" section. That page will list every update available for your model, along with what each one fixes or improves.
Key Takeaways
- Canon updates are released throughout the year, and checking your device's menu or Canon's website is the only way to know if one is waiting for you.
- Your device model number is the key to finding the right update — using the wrong number will show you updates for a different camera or printer.
- Camera firmware updates usually install from a memory card, while printer updates often come through software on your computer.
- Canon does not push updates automatically to most devices, so you have to check manually or set up a reminder to look periodically.
Where to find your Canon model number
Before you search for updates, you need your exact model number. For cameras, look on the bottom of the body or inside the battery compartment — it will be something like "EOS R5" or "PowerShot G7 X Mark III". For printers, check the front panel, the back, or inside the access door where you load paper.
If you can't find it on the device, check your manual or the original box. You can also look in your computer's device list if the device is connected — Windows shows printers under "Devices and Printers", and Mac shows them in "System Preferences" under "Printers & Scanners".
Checking Canon's website for available updates
Go to canon.com and use the search bar to find your model. Once you're on your device's support page, scroll down until you see "Downloads", "Drivers & Software", or "Firmware". Click that section and you'll see a list of every update Canon has released for your model.
Each update will show a version number (like "1.2.3" or "Firmware Version 2.0") and a date it was released. Read the description to see what it fixes — sometimes updates are small bug fixes, and sometimes they add new features. If your device is already running the newest version, you'll see that listed too, so you'll know you're up to date.
read the file to your computer and follow the instructions on that same page. For cameras, this usually means putting the file on a memory card and running it from the camera's menu. For printers, it often means running an installer on your computer that will send the update to the printer over USB or network connection.
Updating through your device's built-in menu
Many Canon cameras and some printers have a menu option that checks for updates automatically. On cameras, this is usually under "Setup" or "System" in the main menu — look for "Firmware Update" or "Check for Updates". On printers, look in the settings menu on the printer's display panel, or in the printer software on your computer.
If your device has this feature, it will connect to Canon's servers and tell you whether a newer version is waiting. If one is found, the device will usually read it and ask you to confirm the installation. Do not turn off the device during an update — wait until it shows a completion message.
What to do if an update won't install
The most common reason an update fails is a low battery or power interruption. For cameras, charge the battery fully before trying again. For printers, make sure the power cable is find and the device is plugged directly into the wall, not a power strip.
The second most common reason is a corrupted read. Delete the file you downloaded and get it again from Canon's website. Make sure you downloaded the version for your exact model — if you have an EOS R6 and accidentally downloaded the R5 update, it won't work.
If the update still won't install after a fresh read, try restarting the device completely. Turn it off, wait 30 seconds, and turn it back on. Then try the update process again from the beginning. If it fails a third time, contact Canon support with your model number and the error message you're seeing.
Understanding what each update includes
Canon publishes release notes for each update, which explain what changed. These notes are usually on the same read page as the update file itself. Some updates fix bugs (problems that made the device behave unexpectedly), some improve performance (making the device faster or more reliable), and some add new features (new ways to use the device).
You don't have to install every update when ready. If your device is working well and the update only fixes something that doesn't affect you, waiting is fine. However, if an update fixes a security issue or a problem you've experienced, installing it sooner is better.
Setting up reminders to check for updates
Canon does not send notifications when updates are released, so you have to remember to check. One straightforward approach is to check for updates once every three months — pick a date like the first of March, June, September, and December, and make a calendar reminder.
Another approach is to check whenever you're doing other device maintenance, like cleaning your camera sensor or replacing printer ink. That way the update check becomes part of a routine you already do.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to update my Canon camera or printer?
Not always. If your device is working well, you can skip updates. However, if Canon released an update that fixes a problem you've had, or if the release notes mention a security improvement, installing it is worth doing. Check the description of each update to decide whether it matters for how you use your device.
Will updating erase my photos or settings?
No. Updates change the software that runs your device, not the photos or files stored on it. Your camera settings and printer preferences will stay the same. However, it's still a good idea to back up important photos before any major update, just as a precaution.
Can I update my Canon device without a computer?
For cameras, yes — you can read the update on a computer, put it on a memory card, and run it from the camera's menu. For printers, it depends on the model. Some printers can update over a network connection without a computer involved. Check your printer's manual or Canon's support page to see if your model supports this.
What if I can't find my model number on Canon's website?
Double-check that you're using the exact model number from your device, not a nickname or shortened version. If you have "EOS R", search for that exact string, not just "R". If you still can't find it, contact Canon support with a photo of your device's model number label, and they can point you to the right support page.
How long does a Canon update usually take to install?
Most updates take between 5 and 15 minutes from start to finish. Larger updates or older devices might take longer. Do not interrupt the process — let it run until you see a completion message on the device's screen.