Canon Printer Error Code 2123: How to Fix It

Easy 10-20 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
2123
Brand
Canon
Product Type
printer
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Fix Time
10-20 minutes
Canon printer error code 2123 indicates a paper type mismatch — the printer has detected that the paper loaded in the tray does not match the paper type selected in the print settings or on the printer's control panel. This typically happens when you load specialty media like photo paper, envelopes, or card stock but the printer settings still expect standard plain paper (or vice versa). Fixing this error is usually straightforward and involves aligning your loaded paper with your printer's settings.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 2123

  1. Cancel the Current Print Job

  2. Check the Paper Currently Loaded in the Tray

    Do not force the tray open if it feels stuck. Press the release button gently to avoid cracking the plastic tray mechanism.

  3. Register the Correct Paper Type on the Printer

  4. Match the Paper Type in Your Print Driver Settings

  5. Disable Paper Mismatch Detection (Optional Workaround)

    Disabling mismatch detection means the printer will no longer warn you when settings and loaded media differ, which can lead to wasted ink, paper jams, or poor print quality if settings are accidentally left incorrect.

  6. Update or Reinstall the Canon Printer Driver

  7. Reset the Printer to Factory Settings (Last Resort)

    A factory reset will erase all saved network settings, registered paper settings, and custom preferences. Write down your Wi-Fi password and any important settings before proceeding.
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When to Call a Professional

If error code 2123 persists after completing all steps above — including driver reinstall and factory reset — there may be a hardware issue with the printer's paper sensor or media detection mechanism. In this case, contact Canon's official customer support (1-800-OK-CANON) or take the printer to an authorized Canon service center. Professional service is also recommended if your printer is still under warranty, as attempting internal repairs yourself may void coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Canon error code 2123 mean?
Canon error code 2123 means there is a paper type mismatch — the paper type loaded in your printer's tray does not match the paper type selected in either the printer's control panel settings or your computer's print driver settings. Fixing it usually requires aligning both settings to match the actual paper you have loaded.
How do I clear error 2123 on my Canon printer?
To clear error 2123, first press the Stop/Cancel button on the printer to dismiss the error. Then check what paper is loaded in the tray, update the paper type in the printer's control panel (Setup > Device Settings > Paper Settings), and make sure the paper type in your computer's print driver also matches. Once both settings match the loaded paper, the error should not reappear.
Can I disable the paper mismatch error on my Canon printer?
Yes. You can disable paper mismatch detection by going to Setup > Device Settings > Paper Settings > Detect Paper Setting Mismatch on your printer's control panel and selecting 'Do Not Detect.' However, this means the printer will no longer alert you to mismatches, which can result in poor print quality or wasted paper if settings are accidentally wrong.
Why does my Canon printer keep showing error 2123 even after I change the settings?
If the error keeps returning, there are a few possible causes: the paper type on the printer's control panel and the computer's print driver may still not be in sync; the printer driver may be outdated or corrupted; or the loaded paper may be curled, damp, or misaligned in the tray. Try reinstalling the latest Canon printer driver from canon.com/support and ensure the paper is loaded flat and straight in the tray.
Does Canon error 2123 only happen with photo paper?
No, error 2123 can occur with any paper type. It most commonly appears when switching between plain paper and specialty media such as glossy photo paper, matte photo paper, envelopes, labels, or card stock — any time the paper physically in the tray does not match the type selected in the printer or driver settings. It can also happen if you forget to update settings after changing paper between print jobs.

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