I can sort of see the reason behind it. If they’re hosting the manual then they can keep it updated (typos/mistakes/changes etc.). Printed manuals can become outdated by the time it reaches the buyer.
What they should’ve done instead was to include a printed version, and then add a QR code to see the latest version online. That would’ve been very handy
My HL2270DW has been working flawlessly for nearly 10 years now.
Connects to any PC/mac on my home network. Always prints correctly. Toners are dirt cheap
Is OP using a 1998 cannon printer or something?