Can't get scanning to work with Canon MF460 printer.

Hello, rg

Welcome to Microsoft Q&A.

I completely understand your frustration. When a workflow that used to be simple and smooth suddenly breaks after switching to a new device, it can be incredibly frustrating. Let me explain what’s likely happening and how you can get your new scanner working again.

The “small window” you mentioned — which made printing, scanning, and copying so easy — was part of the software package that came with your previous Canon printer, most likely called “Canon MF Toolbox”. It worked well because it was specifically designed for that particular printer.

Now that you’ve switched to the Canon MF460, the situation has changed:

Your system likely recognized it as a printer and automatically installed a generic/basic printer driver. That’s usually enough to allow printing, but it does not include scanning, copying, or other advanced functions. Also, the software from your old Canon printer may still be on your computer, but it doesn’t recognize or communicate with the new MF460.

To restore your scanning capabilities, we need to install the full-featured software package designed specifically for the Canon MF460.

Please follow the steps below carefully — this is usually the most reliable way to resolve this kind of issue:

Step 1: Clean Up Old Drivers and Software

To avoid conflicts between the old and new software:

1. If your new printer is connected via USB, unplug it first.
2. Click the Start button, go to Settings (gear icon), then choose Apps.
3. In the list of installed apps, look for anything related to Canon.
   • If you see software related to your old printer model, or names like “Canon MF Toolbox” or “Canon MF Drivers”, click on them and choose Uninstall.

Step 2: Download and Install the Correct Full Software Package

This is the most important part. We’ll get the official software from Canon’s website:

1. Visit the official Canon driver page for your printer model directly: https://www.canon-europe.com/business/products/office-printers/multifunction/black-and-white/i-sensys-mf460-series/

Disclaimer: Microsoft provides no assurances and/or warranties, implied or otherwise, and is not responsible for the information you receive from the third-party linked sites or any support related to technology.

1. The website should automatically detect your OS as Windows 10 (64-bit). If not, select it manually.
2. Scroll down the page and look for something like: [Windows 64bit] MF465dw/MF462dw MFDrivers
   • Download that file — it includes everything you need (drivers for printing, scanning, and utility software).
   1. Once downloaded, run the installer to begin installation.

Step 3: Pay Attention During Installation

1. Follow the on-screen instructions carefully.
2. IMPORTANT: The installer will prompt you when to plug in the USB cable.
   • Only connect the printer when prompted — doing it too early can cause the installation to fail.
   1. Allow the installer to complete all steps. It may ask you to restart your computer afterward.

Step 4: Use the New Canon Scanning Tool

Once the installation is complete, you should find a new Canon application in the Start Menu or on your desktop, likely named “Canon MF Scan Utility”.

This is your new printer’s control center — you can easily scan documents, set scan options, and more from here.

Use Windows’ Built-in Scan App

Windows 10 also has a simple built-in scanning app called Windows Scan, which you can get for free from the Microsoft Store.

Once the correct driver is installed, the app usually detects your scanner automatically and works well for basic tasks.

I’m confident that once you’ve installed the official full-featured software for your new printer, you’ll regain that familiar and convenient scanning experience.

Hope this helps! Let us know how it goes.

Best wishes

Kai Ho | Microsoft Q&A Support Specialist