A prerequisite for connecting your TV to a Wi-Fi router is having a home network. This means that you first need to buy and install a router. The algorithm for setting up the Internet connection is about the same for all TVs younger than 2008. There may be slight changes in the names of the commands, but in general the process follows the same pattern.
- What is a TV with WiFi and why do I need it?
- How to use a TV with Wi-Fi
- What is Smart TV in a TV set
- What is built-in WIFI?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How to use?
- How to choose?
- If you do not have a router?
- Using
- TV Internet connection options
- The process of connecting the TV to Wi-Fi
- Setting up Wi-Fi on your Android set-top box
- Using Wi-Fi adapter
- How to use Smart TV and configure Wi-Fi
- What you should pay attention to when buying a TV with Wi-Fi and Smart TV
- Possible problems
- How to Connect Wireless Internet on a TV without built-in Wi-Fi
- Using a Wi-Fi adapter.
- Using set-top boxes
What is a TV with WiFi and why do I need it?
Every year, manufacturers of household appliances are trying to attract more and more attention to their products, adding new useful options to their capabilities. One of such inventions have become smart TVs with Internet access via WiFi. This feature allows you to use the device as a personal computer, but is it so necessary for each consumer, because such units are not all affordable.
The first "smart" devices made it possible to access the Internet only through a cable connection. This method had its disadvantages, such as inconvenient operation, limited connection space, and the appearance of unattractive dangling wires. To avoid such negative aspects, manufacturers have created SMART-TV – an innovative device that uses a small computer and a special adapter, providing the ability to go online and visit all kinds of sites. Thus, one device combines the capabilities of two at once – a computer and a TV.
How to use a TV with Wi-Fi
TV device with Internet has a wide range of functions, unlike a traditional TV, although it is inferior to a full-fledged computer. The highest quality signal will be if you establish a connection through a provider, conducted in the apartment via twisted pair. It is possible to use a wired connection, but it is much more convenient to make a wireless connection.
The main opportunities, which give "smart" units with Internet, in addition to the usual watching TV channels, are as follows:
- free viewing of favorite movies and TV series online without the need to download and save videos;
- use of many sites through the built-in browser, including visits to social networks and media portals;
- with a microphone and webcam you can easily make video calls through popular instant messengers.
Using a laptop for manipulation is chosen if there is no router. This requires creating a separate channel for connecting the two devices, which additionally allows you to play files of different formats on your TV from your computer. If the latter has Internet, you can also access the network from the TV receiver.
To connect, you create an access point on your laptop, which is not too difficult to do because it has a built-in wireless module, similar to a router. Usually this connection is much more reliable and stable than external devices. Next, you need to create a separate group for the connection, which requires a number of sequential steps:
- Activate the command line;
- Enter the code "netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=allow ssid=My_virtual_WiFi key=12345678 keyUsage=persistent", making sure that there are no errors;
- After hitting Enter, the command launches and the drivers are automatically downloaded for distribution;
- The command "netsh wlan start hostednetwork" is designed to start the network.
What is Smart TV in a TV set
Translated from English into Russian, the word "smart" means "smart," such a telling word means that a device with such a set-top box has much more capabilities than a simple LCD TV.
Previous LCD TVs without Smart-TV function could also connect to the Internet, but only through a PC, in which case the computer was busy and it was impossible to work on it separately from the TV. Smart TV has its own browser, which allows you to connect to the Internet separately from other devices. How does the connection work?
What is built-in WIFI?
Each model has a different way of connecting to the Internet, you should pay attention to this. Inexpensive models have a LAN-connector, the configuration of which resembles the connector used to connect analog telephones. The connection to the home network provider's Internet is made with an Ethernet cable.
Such devices may additionally have built-in WiFi, which is indicated on the housing and drastically increases its cost. Built-in wifi in the TV what is it?
If there is a router in the house, which distributes wifi to all devices in the home network, it also connects Smart-TV to the Internet.
The third type of connection, labeled on the housing WiFi Ready, means there is no built-in adapter, and the connection to the wireless home network is made via an external wifi set-top box.
The nuances of connecting to the Internet should be clarified at the stage of selection, so as not to buy a device that leads to unplanned expenses, because wifi set-top box is not a cheap pleasure. TV with built-in wi-fi is the best option if you have a wireless router, it is worth choosing, if the financial capabilities allow.
Frequently Asked Questions
To summarize why a TV has Wi-Fi, let's briefly answer popular questions on the subject.
This refers to the built-in Wi-Fi adapter for wireless network connectivity.
It is necessary for wireless connection to the Internet, to access smart features.
Smart TV is television, Internet, and pre-installed applications. Essentially, such devices work like tablets or smartphones, but with narrowly defined functions.
Needed if you need access to the Internet and online applications.
Bluetooth is most often used to connect Bluetooth headphones or speakers, and you can also use this module to transfer data from other devices that also have Bluetooth.
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How to use?
To use a TV with WIFI for its intended purpose, you'll need a router. The device is connected to the router. It is not necessary to use wires. You can make a wireless connection. Once connected to the WI-FI, the unit is used to receive TV channels and access the network.
If you do not have a router, you can connect to a wireless network using a device with a built-in WI-FI adapter. Most often a laptop computer is used for this purpose.
Usually the TV detects the network by itself. However, this only applies to new generation receivers. Some devices need to be configured manually.
Instructions on how to connect your TV to the Internet are available in video format:
A TV with Smart TV function connects to the WI-FI network as follows:
After this manipulation, WI-FI finds all available networks by itself. From the proposed options, the user chooses his router.
After that, you can log into the Internet from the TV.
If you want to connect your TV through a wire, here's a diagram:
How to choose?
There are many televisions on the market that can access the Internet. To buy a quality model, it is recommended to pay attention to some selection criteria.
So, here are 8 parameters that are important when buying:
- WI-FI connection. The first thing to do is to make sure that the device allows access to the network. Experts also advise to find out whether the device is equipped with a built-in module or will have to buy an external adapter.
- The size of the screen. The smallest TV screen has a size of 14 inches, the largest – 105. When choosing a receiver according to this parameter, you should take into account that the distance from the sitting area to the monitor should be at least three screen diagonals. The area of the room and the budget are also taken into account. For the kitchen, usually buy devices with a small diagonal. For rooms, the most optimal devices are devices with a diagonal of 32 to 55 inches.
- Type of backlighting. Users most often choose devices with Edge LED backlighting. The advantage of this option – a good viewing angle, the disadvantage – poor darkening of colors. Experts recommend choosing devices with the type of backlighting Direct LED. It has a greater number of shades and better color contrast. New generation TVs are equipped with QLED and OLED backlighting. The only disadvantage of these devices – high cost.
- Resolution. The bigger it is, the better the image quality will be. Most TVs have a resolution of 1920*1080 and 3840*2160 pixels. If the receiver is purchased in order to access the Internet, it is recommended to buy a device with the second version of the resolution. To view analog television, the 1920*1080 pixels setting is sufficient.
- Sound quality. The higher it is, the more comfortable viewing will be.
- Response time. This is the time it takes for the crystal to reorient the position in one pixel. This affects video quality, specifically the change in picture at high display speeds.
- Refresh rate. It is recommended to choose receivers with a high frequency. However, this indicator also affects the cost. Budget receivers have a refresh rate of 100 Hz. Televisions with an average cost – 200-400 Hz. The highest refresh rate in expensive models. In this case, the index reaches 1000 Hz.
- Connectors. The more of them, the better. A large number of connectors will allow you to connect a microphone, headphones and other similar devices to the device.
If you do not have a router?
If you don't have a wireless router, the second way to connect your Smart TV to the Internet is to use a laptop. To do this, a direct link is created between the devices. Create an access point in the following way:
- Start the command line or open the "Run" window by pressing the key combination + R .
- Run the command "netshwlansethostednetworkmode=allowssid=My_virtual_WiFikey=12345678keyUsage=persistent"which will turn the laptop into a wireless hotspot.
- When the downloading of the drivers is finished (they might already be on the laptop), run the command "netsh wlan start hostednetworknetsh wlan start hostednetwork". It will start the distribution.
- Connect Smart TV to Wi-Fi as in the previous method.
Using
Now let's tell you how to use Smart TV. Smart is managed in two main ways:
If with the first case everything is clear, everyone used the remote control, then the second will disclose in more detail. To control the TV from your smartphone, which is convenient when surfing social networks and games, you need to install the appropriate software. One such software for Android is Smart TV Remote. Both devices must support Direct Wi-Fi technology to connect.
TV Internet connection options
Not all TVs have a built-in module for wireless Internet connection. There are other ways to set up a Wi-Fi connection. Conventionally, there are three ways to set up an Internet connection:
- Built-in module. Here everything is very simple and straightforward. Even a child can connect to the home network. The TV itself will find the available networks to connect. All you have to do is to enter the password;
- Wireless adapter, which is connected to the TV via HDMI or USB connector. The adapter acts as a link between the TV and the router;
- A special socket. Some TV models are equipped with a jack that allows you to configure access to the Internet – LAN input. You need to plug an Ethernet cable into it.
All methods differ significantly from each other. A cable connection can provide a stable connection to the Internet at maximum speed. However, the user is deprived of mobility. Not to mention the fact that the cable will get in the way. Buying a Wi-Fi adapter is a good alternative, but it will cost you more. If the TV and the adapter are made by different companies, there could be compatibility issues. Therefore, a TV with a built-in module for wireless Internet connection is the best option.
The process of connecting the TV to Wi-Fi
The principle of operation of the TV via Wi-Fi is that the router distributes the signal, and a special built-in module receives it. Using Wi-Fi on TV is extremely easy. Sometimes it is difficult to activate the Wi-Fi on the TV. This procedure depends directly on the brand of equipment. So now let's look at how to turn on Wi-Fi on Smart TV from several popular manufacturers.
- Using the TV remote control, go to the main menu.
- Select the "Network.".
- Switch to the "Network Connection" tab, and then select "Configure.".
- Move the slider to the active position – ON or ON.
- A list of available networks will appear on the TV screen, select your network.
If a password has been set for your home Wi-Fi network, then be sure to enter it using the remote control.
The first time you turn on the TV, you will be prompted to connect to the Internet right away. So if you do not ignore this offer, then you will not have to resort to the above instructions.
If the need arises, you can manually enter the network parameters. To do this, you need to switch to the manual settings section. This is mostly done by users connected to the Internet with a hidden SSID. This means that you have to enter a statistical IP.
Instructions for turning on Wi-Fi on Samsung TVs:
- Press the Menu button on the remote control.
- Open the section "Network..
- Switch to the tab "Network Settings" tab., and then tap "Wireless Network.".
- The screen displays a list of networks that you can connect to.
- Select your home network, and then enter your password.
Setting up Wi-Fi on your Android set-top box
Many users believe that Android devices can only act as Wi-Fi network clients. However, this is not the case. Every such gadget can be used for wireless distribution of the Internet signal. To implement such a task, there is absolutely no need to download and install additional software. The built-in functionality is enough. Now let's look at the scheme of connecting Wi-Fi to the TV via a Smart set-top box.
It all starts when the user needs to plug an Ethernet cable into the LAN connector of the set-top box or connect it to the home network wirelessly. If the Internet works correctly, you can move on to connecting the TV. Connect the device to the set-top box with an HDMI cable, and then select the appropriate signal source.
- When all the equipment is connected with the appropriate cables, open the main set-top box settings menu. You can do this with a previously connected mouse or remote control.
- Find the "Wi-Fi" section in the main menu. By default, this option is deactivated. To enable the function, change the position of the slider.
- The search will only take a few seconds. The device will display a list of available networks on the large TV screen. Select your home network.
- Enter your home network password, if you have set one before of course, and then press the "OK" button.
- If the router is set up correctly, it will connect within seconds.
Smart TVs do not need an Android set-top box. Since they are mostly equipped with a hardware module for wireless Internet connection. The method described above is mainly designed for owners of regular TVs without Smart support.
Using Wi-Fi adapter
To connect to a home network with a TV, which is not equipped with a Wi-Fi module, you need to buy a special adapter. Visually, this device resembles the most common flash drive. It is inserted into a USB or HDMI connector. As for the connection to the Internet via Wi-Fi, it is carried out on the same principle as in the case of Smart TV models. Remember that sometimes there are problems with compatibility. Therefore, it is better to buy branded devices from the same manufacturer as the TV.
What features should I look for when selecting an adapter? Focus on the following parameters:
Few people know, but even the most ordinary router can be turned into a Wi-Fi adapter. How exactly? You're about to find out.
Almost all routers work in several modes. One of those is adapter mode. If your router supports this function, then you can set up a wireless Internet connection on your TV without too much trouble. To do this, follow the step-by-step instructions:
- Open the router settings, and then select adapter mode.
- The router will receive the home network signal and then transmit to the TV;
- The TV and the router must be connected with an Ethernet cable.
- Check that the connection works.
- This is a wired type of synchronization, so you do not have to enter a password.
How to use Smart TV and configure Wi-Fi
Many people, before buying an ultra-fashionable and functional TV, wonder how a TV with Wi-Fi works, whether it will be difficult to use. Difficulties arise sharply, as the navigation of the "Menu" is intuitively simple and straightforward.
First of all, you need to understand that in order to access the Internet via TV, you will need a home wireless network. The network infrastructure is organized with network equipment in the form of a modem or router. They perform the tasks of an access point and provide access to the Global Network for any devices connected to them.
Important! If the user does not have a router, the wireless home network can be created with a laptop. But for this it must be connected to the Global Network.
Let us assume that a wireless network has been configured. Now it is necessary to pair it with Smart TV. Detailed instructions on how and why to do it are described in the accompanying documentation, in the instruction manual. The fact is that there is no universal method, because the difference between manufacturers can be enormous.
You need to activate the remote access point and go to the "Network" tab in the TV settings menu. Then you need to go to the network settings and tap on the "Start" button. After a few seconds, the screen will display the available remote access points. It is necessary to select your router and click on "Connect". If the system requires authentication, you will need to enter your username and password.
Touch screen remote control for Samsung Smart TV
Please note! As practice shows, to comfortably watch streaming video you need to have a high-speed Internet.
You can control the device using the remote control. Some TVs come with additional remotes, or one, but equipped with additional buttons. You can also control the TV with an ordinary smartphone, it is used as a universal remote control.
What you should pay attention to when buying a TV with Wi-Fi and Smart TV
Smart-TV technology in TVs from different brands is implemented differently, because different operating systems are used. The most popular are Android TV, Tizen OS, WebOS.
- TVs are equipped with innovative control Smart Interaction, it allows you to control the device by touching the remote control or with a set of gestures;
- Face recognition function of the built-in web-camera, which guarantees full confidentiality of personal data stored on the device;
- The remote control also has a gyroscope, which allows you to use the remote control as a pointer;
- Social TV service, which allows you to simultaneously watch your favorite movie or TV show and communicate with loved ones in social networks and messengers.
Please note! Not all modifications of the TV are equipped with a built-in webcam, it is possible that it will have to be purchased additionally.
- a wide variety of games and applications adapted for the operating system of the TV;
- Availability of own storage capacity of 16 GB;
- Sony is the favorite of all gamers, as owners of Smart TV have a large selection of games;
- availability of voice search;
- Thanks to the device equipped with modern interfaces, you can additionally connect a keyboard and a mouse.
Possible problems
In 2019, almost all providers provide the type of connection, at which you do not need to configure anything – just enter the password. But still, sometimes it happens that settings are required. This is what can cause problems with the connection.
If for some reason you can't make a wireless connection, you should try setting up wi-fi on your TV. To do this, go to "wireless networks" in the TV settings and select "manual connection"(manual setting).
The first thing to do is to look for the item "automatic assignment of IP address" and check it. After that, the network can work. If this does not help, you need to remove the checkmark and enter the parameters yourself. Most often the user is required to enter DNS, IP, subnet mask and gateway. This information can be found on the router.
If the above steps did not help, you should check the functionality of the Wi-Fi. You may need to reconfigure the router and reset it to factory settings. Sometimes it is impossible to connect to the Internet via Wi-Fi due to a TV failure or outdated software.
To software update you should try to connect the device to the Internet with a cable and find the "software update" item in the settings. If the Internet does not work by cable, you can download the update to a flash drive on the manufacturer's website, there are also instructions for installation.
If the software update did not help. or the device has already installed all the latest updates, you should try reset. To begin with, you can reset directly Smart. This is done in the settings menu – you need to enter the Smart Hub for Samsung, Connect Store for LG and Play Market on TVs of other manufacturers that work with Android.
How to Connect Wireless Internet on a TV without built-in Wi-Fi
If the user has an old TV without Wi-Fi, it is still possible to connect a wireless network. There are two ways to do this.
Using a Wi-Fi adapter.
This is a small device, smaller than a flash drive, which is inserted into a USB slot and makes the TV catch wireless connections. There is nothing complicated about such a connection – the adapter is simply inserted into the port USBand other settings are similar to those described above.
The disadvantage is that most TVs support specific modules, so you must first find out compatibility. As practice shows, these must be adapters from the same brand as the TV, which means that they have a higher price tag, and finding them is not the easiest task.
Using set-top boxes
The second option for those who have a regular TV, which has no built-in Wi-Fi – buy a Smart Box. These devices may have different functionality, the price depends on it. Quite simple models are produced by Dexp and BBK. As a rule, they have a simple stuffing, and there will be no special comfort from using it. It is better to buy more serious set-top boxes with more RAM and a powerful processor.
Connecting the set-top box to the TV is carried out through the HDMI output, then select the signal source – HDMI, and the interface of the set-top box appears. Since most of them are based on Android, further configuration will not cause much difficulty. In the settings you should find "network connection", select wireless connections and enter the password for the home Internet.
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