Wifi for TV without smart TV

To set up the Internet on your TV this way, you need to do the following:

How to connect your TV to the Internet if you don't have a smart TV

To install the Internet on the TV, you do not have to perform any complicated actions. Everything is set up very simply. The process of connecting a TV device does not require any special knowledge and skills, so even a beginner will cope with this task. The procedure is extremely simple thanks to the manufacturers of equipment, which supply to the market reliable devices with a simple system of settings. Therefore, every user will be able to log into the Internet from the TV. In today's article, we will understand in detail how to connect the TV to the Internet.

Smart TV models are equipped with an option to connect to the Internet, they have a wide range of functions. For example, Android TV models are even capable of downloading apps from Google Play. Often users wonder: can I connect a TV that does not have Smart TV functionality to the Internet? Please note that even a standard plasma TV can be configured to access the Internet. To use this option, you will need to buy a special Android set-top box. There are different ways to connect the Internet, we will consider the most popular to find out which method is the easiest and most accessible.

You need to turn on the Internet on your TV equipment at the very least to be able to:

• Display and play back media content downloaded online on the big LCD screen.
• Watch your favorite movies and shows online.
• Seamlessly engage in online surfing.
• Use instant messengers and make Skype video calls.
• Run a variety of programs.
• Play games.
• Watch TV channels that are not in the basic package.

You can connect any TV of the latest generation to the Internet: LG, Philips, Samsung, Dexp and many other models. The main thing is to perform everything step by step according to the connection scheme. Do not despair if even following the instructions, you still failed to connect. In this case, you can always call a master at home, who will promptly solve the problem.

What you need for connection

To leave the TV in the Internet, you need to have the TV itself, and in addition to this:

If you have all of the above, you can move on to the connection procedure. There are two methods how you can connect the Internet through the TV. The first option involves cable connection and is not suitable for every user. But the second solution is universal – it is a wireless connection. Among most users, the second method of connection is popular because it is much easier and simpler. In addition, there is no need to pull wires across the room.

What do I do if I don't have a Smart TV?

There is no way to connect a TV without a Smart TV to the Internet. It is not necessary and makes no sense. It is the Smart TV function that provides access to the Internet and all these programs on the TV. If there is no Smart TV, there is no access to the Internet. This TV just doesn't need an Internet connection.

If you know for sure you have a TV without Smart, fine. If in doubt, check. Here's a detailed guide: Smart TV feature in your TV: is it there or not, how do I check?

If there's no Smart TV, does that mean there's no Wi-Fi and LAN?

This is not always the case. Explaining. If a TV without Smart features, it definitely does not have built-in Wi-Fi (I have not seen any TVs that have it). I've written on this topic before, you can read it if you're interested: Is there Wi-Fi on my TV? How do I find out where to look?

But there may be a LAN port on a TV like this. What is it for? It is needed to connect to the local network (not the Internet!) . The local network is a DLNA technology, and this TV most likely supports it (see specs). I wrote about it in more details in the article why a LAN socket is needed on your TV.

Briefly about DLNA: DLNA is a technology that allows you to stream video, photos and music from other devices that are connected to the same local network to your TV. For example: Your PC and TV are connected to the same router. You can output a movie from the PC to the TV (not online, but start watching the file) . For example: DLNA server in Windows 10. Setup, output to TV.

It happens that the TV with Smart TV, but without Wi-Fi. This means that it can only be connected to the Internet via cable (or external Wi-Fi adapter, if it supports them) . Or use the method in this article: how to connect a TV without Wi-Fi to the Internet via Wi-Fi.

How do I make a Smart TV on a regular TV?

The solution is to buy and connect a Smart TV set-top box to your TV. This is a universal solution. It is suitable for both regular old and not that old TVs without Smart TV, and for older TVs with Smart TV function (when the majority of programs do not work, everything is very slow loading, freezes, etc.).

There are a lot of such set-top boxes (also called media players) on the market. How to choose them, which are better, etc. – is a topic for a separate article.

Almost all Smart set-top boxes run on the standard Android operating system (which is installed on phones and tablets), or on Android TV (this is the same Android, but it is optimized specifically for TVs and Smart TV consoles). There is also the Apple TV set-top box from Apple. It runs on the operating system tvOS.

The most popular set-top boxes: Xiaomi Mi Box S, Xiaomi Mi TV Stick, MAG 425A, DUNE HD RealBox, Rombica Smart Box, X96 Android TV Box. There are a lot of them. The choice is huge. I, for example, have the Xiaomi Mi Box S.

The smart box connects to the TV via HDMI. Even older TVs usually have an HDMI input. If the TV is very old, then you can connect via RCA connector (Tulpan). There are set-top boxes with this output, or you can use an adapter.

The menu (home screen) of the Smart set-top box looks like this (on Android TV) :

Other ways to make a Smart TV and connect your old TV to the Internet

Judging by what is searched on the Internet, many people want to do Smart TV with an Android phone, tablet, laptop, PC, adapter (I understand, with MiraScreen or AnyCast adapter) .

At the beginning of the article I already wrote that the best way is with a set-top box. I talked about it in detail above in the article. But to completely close this question, let's look at other solutions.

Using an Android phone (smartphone) or tablet

To be honest, I do not even know how you can turn a regular TV into a Smart TV using an Android smartphone. I can only surmise a few options:

1. Broadcast an image from your phone or tablet to the TV screen. Okay, let's say. But to do this, the TV must support this technology (Chromecast, Miracast or AirPlay) . And if the TV is not smart, it does not have Wi-Fi, then it does not support these technologies (you can see the specifications). To do this, you will need to connect to the TV either the same Smart Box (why would you need a phone?), or the Chromecast/Miracast adapter (more details in the article). But does it make sense? I think not. Especially since you can't do full-fledged Smart in this way.
2. Connect the same tablet or phone via HDMI to the TV (in most cases, you need a special adapter or cable).
   It is possible. But the solution is also so-so, to be honest. Just an image from the same tablet will be duplicated to the TV.

I would be happy to see your options in the comments. I may have missed something.

Smart TV using a laptop or PC

Also as an option. But it would no longer be a Smart TV from a laptop, but a TV as a monitor. Usually, there is some old laptop that you want to use somewhere.

How to connect an old TV without a built-in wi-fi adapter to the Internet via Wi-Fi router

Not all TVs have a built-in wi-fi adapter. But that doesn't mean you can't connect them to a fixed router. To understand how to make wi-fi on your TV if you don't have one, you need to take a close look at a few working ways.

Wi-Fi adapter

If the TV does not have a built-in adapter to transmit the signal, and the use of wires for some reason is not suitable (wired connection is not very convenient, because there is a need to lay a wire), you can use external adapters for Wi-Fi. They are not too expensive and are widely available in specialized stores. Many well-known manufacturers produce such devices.

An important requirement for connection is the ability of the home router to distribute a wireless connection to the Internet. However, most modern routers have such a function.

Important! Speaking about whether it is possible to connect a Wi-Fi adapter to the TV without Smart TV, experts unequivocally give a negative answer. This is due to the fact that it is not necessary to connect to the network in such models at all. They do not have applications that allow you to watch videos or access websites.

The MiraScreen adapter

The MiraScreen adapter is often found on store shelves. It allows you to increase the functionality not only of your TV, but also of your monitors or projectors. But more often it is used just for TV. Adapters of this type allow you to broadcast images to the big screen from mobile devices, as well as media content. These devices support several video, image, and sound transmission technologies. Modern devices usually have built-in support.

Troubleshooting

There are cases where all the necessary settings have been made correctly, but access to the Internet still does not appear. The way to fix such a problem depends on which connection method was used.

Most often, when the screen says "connected without Internet", the TV is connected to the wrong IP address or there is an interruption in the work of the router. To fix this problem, you must reset your router or ask your TV to obtain the addresses automatically.

Connecting the TV to the Internet, even if it does not belong to the new generation models with built-in Wi-Fi module, can be done quickly and easily. The main thing is to determine in advance which method is best suited for this purpose. However, today there is no better option than using an Android set-top box.

Principle of operation and connection of the transmitter

All processes for connecting and further debugging of the module follow the following scheme:

1. The module is connected to the USB connector on the receiver. Most models of adapters can be connected via HDMI input, which will allow you to set a higher data transfer rate.
2. On the TV you need to go to the main menu, using the button on the remote control. In the settings, select the "Internet and network" block – it can have other names, depending on the brand of TV.
3. In the additional window you need to click on the block "network setup" and in the list of possible options select "Wi-Fi mode". The action is confirmed by pressing the "ok" button on the remote from the receiver.
4. In the column with the names of network connections choose your own access point, enter the password from the wi-fi router.

Important! Accurate execution of the instruction will cause the process of synchronization of the equipment. The process is completed by pressing the "ok" key and checking the formed connection. If there are problems, it is necessary to reconsider the entire path of action, to find the error.

Why a universal model is disadvantageous

Choosing among the many adapters to connect the TV to the Internet via Wi-Fi, it is necessary to avoid non-original models of devices. Despite the outward resemblance of fakes with branded devices, everything ends on the visual similarity.

The workability of "analogs" is completed at the stage of testing, and then there are failures and rapid failure of the module. It is useless to repair cheap devices: most often they are disposable and cannot be repaired. Repair will cost half the price of a non-original module.

A list of suitable devices is initially prescribed on the body of the adapter, but it is better to buy equipment from the same company that produced the TV. Branded gadgets are more expensive, but guarantee long life and no critical malfunctions.

Universal models are uncomplicated to operate and fairly serviceable connection. But on the forums you can meet complaints that after updating the TV receiver, the hardware stops being recognized and cannot be restored. Given the regular changes in TV firmware and the inoperability of universal receivers, it is cheaper to buy a branded product with warranty service.

Modules with wi-fi function refer to practical add-ons that allow access to the Internet. Wireless communication is more advantageous because of the absence of a lot of wires, getting underfoot and at risk of accidental damage. To get a stable connection it is enough to buy original compatible equipment, conduct debugging and watch your favorite videos and movies on the big screen.

Possible problems and solutions

There are cases when the user performs sequential actions, but cannot connect the devices to each other. Then study the problem and find ways to solve it.

1. The router stopped working. Initially it is rebooted. If the connection still does not appear, call the Internet operator. He can restart the device through a server or send a user to the master.
2. Lack of connection to WPS. To fix the problem, select the network manually, enter the login and password.
3. Check the entered data. Maybe there is no connection to the network because the username or password is entered incorrectly. That's why the error is displayed. To check if the letters and numbers are correct, press the "Display Password" button.
4. Check the IP address setting. This is done in the TV settings. The automatic IP address setting item must be connected. You can do this manually. It is sufficient to change the specified numbers by a couple of units. Usually 192.168.1.5 is set.
5. A connection ban is set. You need to disable it by going to the router settings. They need to move the connection for the TV.
6. Updating the TV settings. Preliminarily download or buy updated drivers, firmware, which are installed on the TV.

If the user has used all methods, but the connection has not happened, it is recommended to contact a programmer. An experienced master will help to cope with the problem, will prompt how to connect the Internet, if the TV does not have Wi-Fi.

Alternative methods of connection

The main methods of connection, which are used in extreme cases, are highlighted.

• One Foot connection. The user must have a router that supports this option. It is enough to enter the menu and select the item of the same name. Wait for the connection to connect, and then you can use the functions.
• Android TV. This is a set-top box with a similar menu to the one on your phone. Press the settings button. Choose "Network and Internet", click on the required connection.
• Buying a WAN or LAN adapter.
• Using an old router, which can be connected to the hardware via cable, it can be used as a Wi-Fi adapter with bridge mode. It will receive the signal and then wire it to the TV.

If you have an old TV that doesn't support Smart TV or other functions, you can only use a set-top box. It broadcasts movies, TV shows, but some programs will not be available.

Not every user has a new generation TV at home. This makes it difficult to function, you can not view all TV programs, videos, movies.

To eliminate the problem, use different options, ranging from a regular cable to the latest TV set-top box.

This will help users view the videos they want. Some people are afraid that such devices are complicated. However, most set-top boxes are designed in such a way that even a "dummy" can handle them. Most of the functions are simple, accessible, and performed on an intuitive level.

Certified computer network security specialist. Routing skills, creation of complex network coverage schemes, including seamless Wi-Fi.

How to choose the right TV set-top box

The main advantage of the set-top box is its multifunctionality. The software, the platform on which the device runs, the quality of transmitted video, the ability to work with different formats, and its size also play an important role.

Processor and RAM

The number of cores and the RAM size will determine the speed and the quality of the signal and the picture quality. It is important to choose a device with at least 2 GB of memory, depending on your financial situation you should choose a console with 4 and 8-core processors.

Pay attention! The clock frequency of the processor must be at least 2 GHz.

Connectivity interfaces

A wi-fi set-top box for the TV is mainly focused on picture quality and transmission speed. With HDMI connection, it will be the best, but not always the monitor has a special connector for this.

Connecting to the network can be done via cable or via Wi-Fi. The bandwidth of a cable connection is much higher than a wireless one.

Transmitter power

For best performance, you should take a set-top box with at least two processors.

Supported screen resolution

Set-top boxes broadcast the signal in HD or Full HD resolution.

Pay attention! SDTV clarity is practically not used anymore, it is an obsolete option.

Support for memory cards and file formats

For the receiver to work smoothly with large amounts of data, you should buy a device with a large amount of memory. At the same time, you should pay attention to the possibility of connecting external media.

Most set-top boxes work with a variety of file formats: you can view videos, listen to audio and open different images.

The most popular models

Nowadays, Smart TV set-top box to the TV with Wi-Fi can be found on any shelf in the digital equipment store: DNS, "MVideo" and others. To save money, you can order it through "Aliexpress", but before that it is better to look at reviews on the Internet, the rating of the most successful purchases. Below are the most popular options.

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K

Transmits images and sound in high quality, compatible with many applications, has good stuffing, has high performance, signal transmission speed. The disadvantages include problems with connecting to some services in a foreign language.

THL BOX1 PRO EPLUTUS

Set-top box with android 7.1 OS in the package has a remote control, HDMI cable, power adapter and user manual in a foreign language. It works with a variety of file formats, can be connected to a TV over a wireless network, there is also bluetooth.

Pay attention! The device is equipped with 2 GB of RAM and 16 GB as storage. You can control it with voice commands.

Apple TV Gen 4 32GB Media Player

High quality picture, work with different file formats, stylish appearance, included remote control. There are built-in games. Does not work Siri, for serious games you will need to buy an additional gamepad.

Xiaomi Mi Box S Media Player

The device functions on the Android TV 8.1 OS. It has a small memory reserve (4 GB), so you need to buy an additional external drive. The TV receives the signal via Bluetooth 4.2. The remote control is equipped with a voice search. The processor has average capabilities, so it is better not to combine viewing and simultaneous downloading or updating of applications, the image can freeze.

Pay attention! The set-top box has only 1 USB slot. There is no possibility to watch foreign channels.

Connection and setup depending on the model

Now briefly consider the connection of TV of popular brands to the Internet.

Samsung

Open the menu using the remote control. The color scheme may be different, depending on what model you have, but the names of items and their location are the same. Open the "General" item and go to the "Network" section.

A message will appear telling you that the TV is connected to the network.

For a cable connection, you need to select cable connection in the menu and wait for the setting to be done.

LG

Open the menu and select Advanced Settings – Network – Wi-Fi Network Connection.

Find your network in the list and tap on it. You will be prompted to enter your password.

The cable connection is set up automatically. It is enough to connect the network wire to the LAN port and wait.

Sony

In the menu, go to "Settings". Go to "Network Settings" – "Wireless Setup.

Press the WPS button on the menu and do the same on the router.

If you cannot connect this way, or if your router does not have the right button, select "Scan" as the last option. A list of available networks will be displayed. Select the one you want and enter your password.

Possible Errors and Difficulties

If the TV does not connect to the Internet, try the following steps:

1. Reboot the router and the TV.
2. If you can't connect via WPS, try selecting a network manually and entering a password.
3. Check if you entered the password correctly. It is easy to make a mistake when using the remote control. Turn on the "Display password" option.
4. Check in the IP settings on the TV if it is set to get an IP address automatically. If not, fix it.
5. Try manually assigning an IP address to the TV. To do this, open the IP settings and enter an address a couple of digits different from your router. If your router is set to 192.168.1.1, set 192.168.1.3 or 192.168.1.5.
6. You may have your router set to prohibit connection of unknown devices. Go to settings and add your TV to the whitelist.
7. Download the latest firmware for your TV and update it.

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