How to Fix a Vizio TV That Won't Connect to Wi-Fi

You can't stream movies if your Vizio smart TV isn't online

If your Vizio smart TV doesn't connect to Wi-Fi, you can't stream your favorite shows and movies. Learn how to fix Vizio TV Wi-Fi issues so that you can get back to binge-watching.

Fixes in this article apply to all Wi-Fi-enabled smart televisions.

No Wi-Fi on Visio TV

Causes of Vizio TV Not Connecting to Wi-Fi

When you first set up your smart TV, you must connect the Vizio TV to Wi-Fi before you can use any of the Vizio apps like Netflix and Hulu. If the TV can't access the internet, it could be due to a few reasons:

  • Internet connection problems.
  • Communication issues between the router and TV.
  • Problems with the TV's Wi-Fi adapter.
  • Conflicts with the router's security settings.

All routers include security settings to block malicious software. For example, the Arris TG862 has a built-in security feature that conflicts specifically with Vizio TVs. The way around this is to change the router security settings to WPA-PSK [TKIP].

To test the connection, go to Settings > Test Connection. If a download speed appears, it means the TV is connected to the internet.

How to Fix It When a Vizio TV Won't Connect to Wi-Fi

Try these steps in order until your Vizio smart TV can connect to your home Wi-Fi network:

  1. Check the Wi-Fi network. Access the web from another device connected to your network. If it connects, then the problem lies with the television. If you can't connect on any device, you need to troubleshoot the Wi-Fi network.

  2. Toggle the DHCP settings. DHCP (dynamic host configuration protocol) helps a TV and router work together. Press the Menu button on the Vizio remote, then select Network > Manual Setup > DHCP. If DHCP is set to OFF, press the right arrow to turn it on. If it is set to ON, press the right arrow once to turn it off, and then again to turn it on.

  3. Power cycle the router, modem, and TV. Turn off the television and unplug it, then reset the router and modem. Plug the television back in when you're done to see if it connects.

    Leaving the TV unplugged for thirty seconds clears its internal memory and helps resolve any software glitches that might result in poor connectivity.

  4. Change the router security settings to enable WPA-PSK [TKIP]. Vizio TVs work best with WPA-PSK [TKIP] encryption enabled. Enter the router's default gateway IP address into the URL bar of any web browser to access the router settings.

    If the router is provided by your internet service provider (ISP), you may need to call them and ask how to change the security settings.

  5. Use a wired Ethernet connection. If the TV has an Ethernet port, connect it directly to the router or modem with an Ethernet cable. If this fixes the problem, then the TV's wireless adapter could be broken.

  6. Reset the Vizio TV. If all else fails, reset the TV to its factory settings. Once complete, the television will turn itself off and then come back on at the original setup screen.

    Resetting your TV will cause you to lose all saved apps, preferences, usernames, and passwords.

  7. Contact Vizio customer support. Vizio TVs come with free lifetime technical support. In the U.S., call 1-844-254-8087 or visit the Vizio tech support website for further assistance. If your TV is under warranty, you might be able to get it serviced or replaced.

FAQ
  • How do you reset a Vizio TV?

    To reset your TV to factory settings, go to Settings > System > Reset & Admin. Select Reset TV to Factory Defaults and enter your passcode.

  • How do you download apps on a Vizio TV?

    To download apps on Vizio smart TVs featuring SmartCast, download a Chromecast-enabled app and tap the Cast logo. You can also download an Apple AirPlay-compatible iOS app to stream content that way. On older Vizio TVs, click V on the remote and select an app to install it.

  • How do you turn on a Vizio TV without the remote?

    To use your TV without its remote, download and launch the Vizio SmartCast app on your mobile device. Tap the Control icon, select Devices, and choose your TV. The control menu that appears operates like a normal remote. 

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