How to Completely Disable Wi-Fi Direct on an LG TV: 5 Proven Methods

Function Wi-Fi Direct on TVs LG It allows you to quickly connect smartphones, tablets, or laptops directly to your TV without a router. However, many users encounter situations where this option interferes with their main Wi-Fi network, creates IP address conflicts, or is simply unnecessary. For example, if you only use the TV for watching videos. IPTV via cable or connect devices via HDMI, active Wi-Fi Direct may consume system resources and create unnecessary radio noise on the air.

In this article we will look at how disable Wi-Fi Direct completely on TVs LG different generations - from models on webOS 3.5 to current versions webOS 23You'll learn not only the standard methods through the settings menu, but also alternative methods for when the option is grayed out or unavailable. We'll also look at why the feature might reactivate after being disabled and how to prevent it.

What is Wi-Fi Direct on an LG TV and why should I disable it?

Wi-Fi Direct — is a wireless technology that allows devices to connect directly, without the need for a router. On TVs LG It is used for:

• 📱 Screen Mirroring (transferring a smartphone screen to a TV without a router).
• 🎮 Connect gamepads or keyboards wirelessly.
• 📁 Sharing files between TV and other devices (for example, photos or videos).
• 🔊 Connecting wireless speakers or soundbars (on some models).

However, there are several reasons why users want disable this feature:

• ⚡ Conflicts with the main Wi-Fi network: Wi-Fi Direct can clog up the airwaves, especially in apartment buildings where there are many networks on the same channel.
• 🛡️ Security: Direct connections may be vulnerable to unauthorized access if no password is configured.
• 🔄 Automatic switching on: After updating the firmware or resetting the settings, the function may be activated again.
• 📶 Unnecessary burden: When you're not using wireless connections, Wi-Fi Direct consumes power and CPU resources.

It is important to understand that disabling Wi-Fi Direct does not affect for regular Wi-Fi (connecting to a router for internet access). These two functions use the same module but operate independently.

Method 1: Disabling Wi-Fi Direct via the standard menu (webOS 3.5–6.0)

This method is suitable for most TVs. LG at the base webOS versions 3.5–6.0 (2016–2021 models). The interface may differ slightly depending on the firmware version, but the general logic remains the same.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Turn on the TV and press the button Settings (gear) on the remote control.
2. Go to the section Network → Wi-Fi Direct.
3. Find the switch in the upper right corner of the screen Wi-Fi Direct and set it to position Off.
4. Confirm the action if prompted.

If the item Wi-Fi Direct inactive (gray color), this may mean:

• 🔌 The TV is connected to the network via cable (Ethernet), and the Wi-Fi module is disabled automatically.
• 🔄 A firmware update or other system operation is currently in progress.
• 🔒 The feature is blocked by parental controls (you need to check your restriction settings).

After turning off, it is recommended to reboot the TV: hold down the power button on the remote control until the menu appears and select RebootThis will help avoid temporary interruptions in the Wi-Fi module's operation.

⚠️ Attention: On some models (eg, LG OLED C1 or NanoCell NANO85) After disabling Wi-Fi Direct, you may lose the ability to use Screen Mirroring through the standard menu. In this case, you will have to use alternative connection methods, for example, through Miracast or third-party applications like ApowerMirror.

Method 2: Disabling on TVs with webOS 7.0 and later (2022–2026)

In the latest versions webOS (starting from 7.0) The settings interface has been redesigned, and the path to disabling Wi-Fi Direct has changed. This applies to the following models: LG QNED, OLED Evo, NanoCell 2022+ and other flagships.

How to disable:

1. Click the button Home (home) on the remote, then select Settings → All settings.
2. Go to the section Connections → Wi-Fi.
3. Scroll down and select Wi-Fi Direct.
4. In the window that opens, move the slider to the position Off.
5. If a warning appears that it cannot be used Screen Share, confirm the action.

Features of the new versions webOS:

• 🔄 After updating the firmware, Wi-Fi Direct settings may be reset (this is a bug confirmed LG for some 2023 models).
• 📱 On the menu Wi-Fi Direct All previously connected devices are now displayed - they can be deleted manually by clicking on the trash can icon.
• 🔒 An option has appeared For known devices only, which limits the connection to only authorized devices.

If after disabling the function it reactivates itself, try reset network settings:

Settings → All settings → Support → Reset → Reset network settings

⚠️ Attention: On TVs with webOS 7.0+ When you turn off Wi-Fi Direct, the function is also deactivated LG ThinQ (TV control via app). If you need to retain the remote control option, use Method 4 (disabling via service menu).

Method 3: Disabling via the service menu (for advanced users)

If the standard methods don't work (for example, the menu item is unavailable or the settings are reset after rebooting), you can use service menuThis method is suitable for all models. LG, but requires caution - incorrect actions can disrupt the operation of the TV.

Instructions:

1. Turn off the TV using the remote control.
2. Press and hold the button Menu on the remote control, then turn on the TV with the power button. Hold Menu until the service menu appears (usually 5–10 seconds).
3. In the service menu, go to the section Option → Network → Wi-Fi Direct (navigation is done using buttons) ↑↓←→ on the remote control).
4. Set the parameter Wi-Fi Direct in position Off.
5. Save the settings (usually by pressing the button) OK or Exit) and reboot the TV.

Possible difficulties:

• 🔐 On some models, the service menu is password protected. The standard code is 0000, 0413 or 8741 (depending on the region).
• ⚠️ Do not change other parameters in the service menu if you are not sure of their purpose!
• 📝 After exiting the service menu, the TV may automatically reset to factory settings.

What to do if the service menu does not open?

If your TV doesn't respond when you hold the Menu button, try this alternative method:

1. Unplug the TV from the power outlet.

2. Press and hold the Menu button on the remote control while connecting the TV to the power supply.

3. After 5-7 seconds the service menu should appear.

If this doesn't work, your model may be blocking access to engineering settings at the software level.

If you are unsure of your actions, it is better to contact a service center. LG or use alternative methods (for example, Method 5 - physical disconnection of the module).

Method 4: Disabling via the LG ThinQ app (remotely)

If you have a mobile app installed LG ThinQYou can try disabling Wi-Fi Direct remotely. This method is convenient if the TV is in a hard-to-reach place or you don't have the remote.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Open the app LG ThinQ on your smartphone and connect to your TV.
2. Go to the device control section (TV icon).
3. Select Settings → Network → Wi-Fi Direct.
4. Turn off the slider Wi-Fi Direct.
5. Save the changes and reboot the TV through the app.

Limitations of the method:

• 📵 The TV and smartphone must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network (or via mobile Internet if remote access is enabled).
• 🔄 In some versions of the application LG ThinQ Wi-Fi Direct option may not be available.
• 🛠️ If your TV firmware is out of date, the app may not be able to see all the settings.

If after disconnecting through ThinQ The function is activated again, try updating the TV firmware to the latest version:

Settings → All settings → Support → Software update → Check for updates

Method 5: Physically disabling the Wi-Fi module (extreme case)

If software methods do not help, and Wi-Fi Direct creates serious interference (for example, it conflicts with a corporate network or smart home equipment), you can physically disable the Wi-Fi moduleThis method is only suitable for experienced users and requires disassembling the TV.

What you will need:

• ⚒️ Screwdriver (usually PH0 or PH1).
• 🧲 Plastic spatula for disassembly (to avoid damaging the latches).
• 📸 A camera or smartphone to record the location of the parts.

Instructions:

1. Unplug the TV and wait until it cools down completely (10–15 minutes).
2. Remove the back cover by carefully prying up the latches around the perimeter. Pay close attention to the cables and wires!
3. Locate the Wi-Fi module—usually a small board with antennas located on the main motherboard. The labels on the module may include Wi-Fi, WLAN or BCM43xx (chip model).
4. Disconnect the cable or unsolder the power contacts (if you are not sure, it is better not to solder, but simply disconnect the connector).
5. Assemble the TV in reverse order.

Important warnings:

• ⚡ The warranty will be voided when opening the case.
• 🔌 After disabling the module will stop working completely and regular Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth (if it is integrated into the same chip).
• 💥 Risk of damaging the board if disassembled carelessly (especially for models with OLED screens).

If you are not willing to take the risk, an alternative option is to use screen filter (for example, made of foil), which blocks the Wi-Fi signal, but this is a temporary and unsightly solution.

Why Wi-Fi Direct might turn on by itself and how to prevent it

Many users complain that after disabling Wi-Fi Direct, the feature reactivates. This is due to several factors:

To permanently disable Wi-Fi Direct, try a combination of methods:

1. Disable the function through the standard menu (Method 1 or 2).
2. Remove all saved devices from the connections list.
3. Disable automatic firmware updates.
4. If the problem persists, use service menu (Method 3).

⚠️ Attention: On some models LG (For example, UN7300 or UK6300) The Wi-Fi Direct function is tightly integrated into the system and cannot be completely disabled via software. In this case, the only option is to physically disable the module (Method 5) or using an external Wi-Fi adapter via USB (if TV supports this option).

Common mistakes and their solutions

Users often encounter common issues when disabling Wi-Fi Direct. Let's look at the most common ones and how to fix them.

Problem 1: The "Wi-Fi Direct" option is inactive (grayed out)

• 🔌 CauseThe TV is connected to the network via cable. Ethernet, and the Wi-Fi module is disabled.
• ⚡ Solution: Disconnect the cable, go to Wi-Fi settings and enable the wireless connection. After that, Wi-Fi Direct will become active.

Problem 2: After disconnecting, the sound from the Bluetooth speaker disappears.

• 🎧 Cause: On some models LG Wi-Fi and Bluetooth use the same module. Disabling Wi-Fi Direct may interrupt the connection to audio devices.
• 🔊 Solution: Connect the speaker via HDMI ARC or optical output. Or use Method 3 (service menu) to selectively disable only Wi-Fi Direct.

Problem 3: The TV does not save settings after rebooting

• 🔄 Cause: Failure in the settings memory (often occurs after an unsuccessful firmware update).
• 🛠️ Solution:
  1. Perform a network reset: Settings → Network → Network Reset.
  2. If that doesn't help, perform a full factory reset (note that this will delete all installed apps and accounts).

Issue 4: Wi-Fi Direct turns on when you start Screen Mirroring

• 📱 Cause: Function Screen Share By default, it uses Wi-Fi Direct to connect.
• 🖥️ Solution: Use alternative screen sharing methods:
  • 🔹 Miracast (built into Windows 10/11 and Android).
  • 🔹 Apps like ApowerMirror or TeamViewer QuickSupport.
  • 🔹 Connection via HDMI (the most stable option).

  FAQ: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

  Is it possible to disable Wi-Fi Direct without disabling regular Wi-Fi?

  Yes, these functions are independent. Disabling Wi-Fi Direct does not affect the TV's internet connection via the router. However, on some models (for example, LG OLED C9) After disabling Wi-Fi Direct, you may lose the ability to use LG ThinQ (control via smartphone).

  Why does Wi-Fi Direct turn on again after updating the firmware?

  This is a known issue. LG webOS, due to the fact that some settings are reset to factory defaults when installing new software versions. To avoid this, disable automatic checking for updates in the menu before updating. Settings → Support → Software Update.

  How can I check if Wi-Fi Direct is really disabled?

  There are several ways:

  1. Go to Wi-Fi Direct settings - the status should be Off.
  2. Try connecting to the TV from your smartphone via Screen Mirroring - If Wi-Fi Direct is turned off, the connection will fail.
  3. Use a network scanning app (eg. WiFi Analyzer for Android) - the list of available networks should not contain the name of your TV with a postfix _DIRECT.

  Is it possible to disable Wi-Fi Direct on LG TVs without webOS (for example, on older models with NetCast)?

  On TVs LG with a platform NetCast (produced before 2014) Wi-Fi Direct is disabled differently:

  1. Go to Settings → Network → Wi-Fi Direct.
  2. Select Turn off.
  3. Save the settings and restart the TV.

  If the menu item is missing, your model does not support Wi-Fi Direct.

  Will Smart TV work without Wi-Fi Direct?

  Yes, Smart TV will work as usual. Wi-Fi Direct is only needed for direct connections without a router (for example, for Screen Mirroring or controlled by a smartphone remote control). All other functions are Netflix, YouTube, IPTV - will be accessible via regular Wi-Fi or Ethernet.