How to Connect a Smart TV to Wi-Fi

This article explains how to connect a smart TV to a home network and the internet using Wi-Fi and troubleshoot issues making a connection.

Connect to Wi-Fi During First-Time TV Setup

Here's how to connect your smart TV to the internet using your Wi-Fi network:

1. Make sure your network and internet are working.

   To connect to Wi-Fi, you need a wireless router and your network name. For example, ATTxxx, TWCxxx, Coxaaa, or something you came up with.

2. Turn on your smart TV. You'll see a Welcome or Setup screen.

3. The TV prompts you to start the TV setup.

4. As you continue the TV setup, it may automatically search for available networks or prompt you to choose between a wired or wireless (Wi-Fi) network before it searches. For Wi-Fi, choose Wireless.

5. Once the network search is completed, you may see several networks listed. Select your network from the list.

6. Enter the network password (key).

7. Once your password is confirmed, a message displays that the TV is connected via Wi-Fi to your network and the internet.

8. Upon Wi-Fi confirmation, the TV may display a message that a software or firmware update is available. If so, select Yes to download and install the update.

   Don't turn off the TV or perform another function while the update is in progress.

9. Once the update is complete, the TV directs you through the rest of the setup. These steps may include adding streaming apps, channel scanning for antenna-connected TVs, and picture and sound settings.

Change or Add Wi-Fi After the Fact

If you want to switch from a wired connection to Wi-Fi, installed a new wireless router, or changed your internet service provider (ISP), you can re-establish a Wi-Fi connection.

1. From the TV's home screen, select the Setup or Settings icon.

2. In the Settings menu, select Network.

3. Choose Open Network Settings (it may be labeled Network Settings).

4. You should see wired (Ethernet) and wireless (Wi-Fi) options listed in the Network Settings. Select Wireless or Wi-Fi.

   

5. The TV scans for available networks. Choose your network from the list.

6. Enter your network password.

7. Once the connection is confirmed, follow any additional on-screen prompts (such as an available update).

8. If the Network Settings menu has a selection labeled Network Status, select it at any time to see if the current internet connection to the TV is active.

What to Do if Your TV Won't Connect to Wi-Fi

If you can't connect your TV to Wi-Fi, or the connection is unstable, try one, or more, of the following steps.

1. Move the wireless router and TV closer together, or get a Wi-Fi extender for the router and connect again using the above steps.

2. If the Wi-Fi connection attempts fail, and the TV and router provide an Ethernet Port, connect an Ethernet Cable from the router to the TV.

   Depending on the TV brand and model, the Ethernet connection may be labeled Ethernet/LAN or LAN (Local Area Network). The Ethernet cable may be referred to as a network cable.

3. In the TV's network settings menu, select Wired. You may be prompted to connect the Ethernet cable.

4. Wait for a confirmation that the connection was successful. Upon confirmation, follow any additional prompts (such as for a software or firmware update).

5. Two additional ways to connect the TV with Ethernet or Wi-Fi are the PBC and PIN setting methods. Check the owner's manual for specific details for your TV.

6. If none of the above options work, contact your internet service provider (ISP) for assistance in entering the router's IP address and DNS server information manually.

7. If your ISP didn't solve the problem, contact customer support for your TV for assistance.

Not All Smart TVs Have Wi-Fi

Older model smart TVs may not have a Wi-Fi option. If your smart TV doesn't have Wi-Fi but has an Ethernet or USB port, you may be able to access Wi-Fi with an Ethernet or USB Wi-Fi Adapter.

Consult the user guide or contact customer support to determine if you can use this option and which Wi-Fi adapters may be compatible.

Network and Internet Connection Benefits

When a smart TV is connected to the internet and a home network, you have access to one or more of the following:

• Firmware and software updates: Keep your TV updated with the latest fixes and features.
• Streaming services: Get access to video and music streaming services, such as Netflix, YouTube, Pandora, and more, depending on the brand and model.
• Local network content access: Play videos, still images, and music from PCs or media servers on your network.
• Remote management and support: The tech support staff for your TV may be able to take control of your TV (with your permission) to fix setting issues, depending on the brand and model.
• Control of smart home devices: Some smart TVs can be used with Alexa, Google Assistant, or SmartThings that allow it to control, or be controlled by, other devices.