How to mirror your computer screen to your TV via Wi-Fi

Modern technologies allow you to turn any Smart TV into a large monitor for your laptop or desktop PC. Wireless connection Eliminates the need to run long HDMI cables across the room, preserving the aesthetics of your interior. You can stream movies, presentations, or photos using only your local network.

The setup process depends on your computer's operating system and the platform it runs on. Smart TV. The most commonly used standards are Miracast or DLNA, which are built into most modern devices. However, for stable operation, it's critical that both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.

In this article, we'll cover all the current methods for transmitting video signals. You'll learn how to use built-in Windows tools, which apps are best suited for specific TV brands, and what to do if your connection is unstable.

Wireless streaming technologies: Miracast and DLNA

Before you begin setting up, you need to understand the differences between the main data transfer protocols. Miracast Allows you to fully mirror your computer screen to your TV in real time. This is ideal for presentations or games where synchronization is essential.

In contrast, the standard DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) is designed for streaming media content: video files, music, and photos. In this case, the TV acts as a renderer, receiving a data stream from a server running on the computer. DLNA often offers higher image quality because it uses direct streaming without the compression typical for screen copies.

Most modern TVs are from Samsung, LG, Sony And Xiaomi Both protocols are supported. Computers running Windows 10 and 11 also have built-in support for these technologies, simplifying the connection process.

• 📡 Miracast — creates a direct Wi-Fi connection between devices (Wi-Fi Direct) without overloading the router.
• 🎬 DLNA — transfers files via a router, allowing you to control playback using your TV remote control.
• 🔄 Chromecast — Google's proprietary technology that requires the Chrome browser or Android TV.

⚠️ Attention: The Miracast protocol is not protected by high-level encryption. Do not use screen mirroring to enter passwords or access sensitive banking information on open networks.

Preparing equipment and network

For a successful connection, a number of prerequisites must be met. First, make sure your router is transmitting a signal at the correct frequency. 5 GHzThis will ensure sufficient bandwidth to transmit high-definition video streams without delays.

Both devices—the computer and the TV—must be connected to the same network. If you have a dual-band router, make sure the PC and TV are on the same band (either both 2.4 GHz or both 5 GHz), although modern routers often combine them into a single network.

It's also worth updating the wireless adapter drivers on your computer. Manufacturers often release patches that improve stability. Wi-Fi DirectIt is recommended to check for firmware updates on your TV in the settings menu.

Some antivirus programs or firewalls may block detection of devices on the local network. If your computer can't detect the TV, try temporarily disabling protection or adding the network profile to the "Private" or "Trusted" category.

Broadcasting via built-in Windows tools (Projection)

The fastest way to duplicate your screen on Windows 10 or 11 is to use hotkeys. Press the combination Win + K on the keyboard. A "Connection" panel will appear on the right, where the system will begin searching for available wireless displays.

If your TV supports Miracast, its name will appear in the list. After selecting the device, a confirmation message may appear on the TV screen. Use your remote to confirm the connection. The desktop image will appear on the big screen.

For more fine-tuning, click Win + PHere you can select the operating mode: "Duplicate" (screen copy), "Extend" (second monitor), or "Second Screen Only" (image only on TV). Extend mode is useful if you want to watch a movie on your TV while continuing to work on your computer.

What to do if Windows doesn't see the TV?

Make sure the wireless connection app (often called Screen Share, Miracast, or Wireless Display) is running on your TV. On some LG and Samsung models, it's located in the "Input" menu or in the app list. Also, try restarting the Wi-Fi module on both devices.

It's important to note that when using built-in projection, you may experience a slight cursor lag. This isn't a problem for office work, but for fast-paced gaming, a cable is better.

Using apps from TV manufacturers

Many brands release their own utilities to improve compatibility, for example, for TVs. Samsung there is a program Samsung Smart View (or a built-in feature in newer models). It allows you to not only mirror your screen but also transfer files.

For equipment owners LG It's worth paying attention to the application LG TV PlusIt works more reliably than the standard Miracast protocol in some cases and offers a user-friendly control interface. For TVs Sony With Android TV, the built-in Chromecast feature is often sufficient.

Installing the manufacturer's official app often solves codec and resolution issues. Download apps only from official brand websites or stores. Microsoft Storeto avoid malware.

⚠️ Attention: Menu interfaces and app names may vary depending on your TV's operating system version (Tizen, WebOS, Android TV). Please check the official documentation for your model.

Alternative methods: Chrome and third-party software

If standard methods don't work, you can use a browser Google ChromeOpen the menu (three dots in the corner), select "Save and Share" → "Cast...". The browser will search for Chromecast devices or TVs that support this standard.

In the window that opens, you can select a browser tab or the entire desktop. This method is universal and works on almost any TV with Android TV or built-in Chromecast. Image quality depends on the performance of your computer, as it encodes the video stream.

Another option is to install a DLNA server, for example, Universal Media Server Or use the built-in Windows media server. In this case, you don't mirror the screen, but open the video file on the TV via the "Sources" or "Media" menu.

Third party programs like LetsView or ApowerMirror offer advanced functionality, including controlling your computer with a TV remote control, but often have limitations in the free versions.

Quality solution and optimization

A common issue is audio and video desync or image freezing. This almost always indicates a weak Wi-Fi signal or channel congestion. Try moving closer to the router or switching devices to the 5 GHz band, which is less noisy.

If the image appears blurry, check the resolution settings on your computer. For TVs, the resolution is 1920×1080 (Full HD) or 3840×2160 (4K) Make sure the refresh rate is set to 60 Hz.

In some cases, resetting the network settings on the TV and re-pairing it helps. It's also worth checking whether AP Isolation mode is enabled on the router, which prevents devices from seeing each other on the network.

Keep in mind that wireless transmission always introduces a slight latency. While this isn't noticeable for watching movies or photos, for shooters or competitive gaming, a wired HDMI connection remains the undisputed winner.

Why isn't my TV showing up in the list of available devices?

Most likely, the devices are on different subnets or different router frequencies and cannot see each other due to isolation settings. Also, check if your antivirus software is blocking network detection.

Is it possible to broadcast audio separately, without video?

Yes, in Windows sound settings (Settings → System → Sound) You can select your TV as the default output device. This will send all audio to the TV speakers.

Does screen mirroring affect internet speed?

When using Miracast (Wi-Fi Direct), the internet is not used; traffic flows directly between devices. When using DLNA or Chromecast through a router, the Wi-Fi channel is overloaded, which can reduce download speeds on other devices.