Modern televisions LG Smart TV They offer powerful functionality that allows you to transform your living room into a true multimedia center. One of the most popular use cases is wirelessly streaming video content from a personal computer or laptop to a large screen. This eliminates the need to find HDMI cables and run them across the room, ensuring maximum comfort when watching movies or presentations.
The process of synchronizing devices is based on the use of a local network Wi-Fi, to which both gadgets must be connected. There are several proven methods for accomplishing this task: from using the built-in functions of the operating system Windows Before using specialized software, the method you choose depends on your operating system version, TV model, and the file format you're transferring.
In this guide, we'll walk you through the basic steps to get you started playing instantly. You'll learn how to set up sharing, use protocols, and more. Miracast and DLNA, as well as solving common connection issues. Proper network configuration will ensure stable data transfer without lag or image artifacts.
Network requirements and equipment preparation
The foundation for successful data transfer is the proper organization of the local network. Computer and TV LG must be in the same network segment, that is, connected to the same router. If your router supports dual-band mode, it is highly recommended to use the frequency 5 GHz, as it provides the higher bandwidth needed to stream high-definition video.
Make sure that the discovery feature is enabled on both devices. In the operating system Windows This is controlled by the network profile. When you first connect to a new network, the system will ask if you want to make your computer visible to other devices. For proper operation DLNA and streaming, you must select the "Private Network" or "Home Network" option, not "Public."
⚠️ Important: If your router distributes two networks with the same name (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), make sure that the PC and TV are connected to exactly one of them, and not separated into different frequencies, as some older routers can isolate these segments from each other.
It's also worth making sure your TV has the latest firmware version installed. Manufacturers regularly release updates that improve the module's stability. Wi-Fi and compatibility with new codecs. The update can be performed through the settings menu under "General" or "Support."
Using Miracast Technology in Windows 10 and 11
The fastest way to broadcast an image is to use the built-in function MiracastThis technology allows you to mirror your computer screen to your TV without the need for additional wires or complex sharing settings. TV LG perceived by the system as an external wireless monitor.
To start the process, press the key combination on your computer keyboard Win + KThe "Connection" sidebar will appear on the right. Your TV should appear in the list of available devices. LG Smart TVAfter selecting a device, a connection confirmation prompt may appear on the TV screen, which you must accept using the remote control.
Once the connection is established, your desktop or video player will be displayed on the large screen. You can choose the operating mode: mirroring (screen copy), extending your desktop, or displaying only on the second screen. To view the video in full-screen mode, simply maximize the player on your computer.
☑️ Check before connecting Miracast
It's worth keeping in mind that the quality of your wireless connection directly impacts picture smoothness. When transmitting heavy 4K content, micro-delays may be observed, which are unnoticeable when watching movies, but can be disruptive during fast-paced scenes or games. Miracast Ideal for showing presentations and watching online videos.
Streaming via built-in player and DLNA
An alternative method that often provides better picture quality and does not burden the computer system with constant encoding of the video stream is to use the protocol DLNAIn this case, the TV automatically reads the video file from the computer's hard drive over the network, acting as a renderer.
To use this method, open the video file folder on your computer, right-click it, and select "Cast to Device." Select your TV from the list that appears. LGPlayback will begin automatically, and you can control the process (pause, volume) from both your PC keyboard and your TV remote.
If the "Cast to device" option is missing, make sure that the corresponding option is enabled in the streaming media settings. Windows 10/11 This can be found through "Streaming Media Settings" in the Control Panel. Here you can also configure the access level for a specific TV, making it an authorized device.
Why can't the TV see the file?
Often, the problem lies with the video codec format. LG TVs support most popular formats (MKV, MP4, AVI), but may not play files with rare codecs or high bitrates that are easily read by a PC. In this case, converting the file or installing a third-party player on the TV will help.
Setting up folder sharing (SMB)
For advanced users with large movie collections, creating a shared network folder is the optimal solution. This method allows the TV LG see the structure of folders and files on your computer, providing navigation through the interface Smart Share or built-in media player.
Create a folder, for example, "Movies," and place your video files in it. Right-click the folder, select "Properties," and go to the "Sharing" tab. Click "Advanced" and check "Share this folder." Then, under "Permissions," ensure that the "Everyone" group or a specific user has read permissions.
On your TV, launch the "Media" or "Smart Share" app. Your computer should appear in the list of sources. Once you open it, you'll see the shared folder. This method is especially convenient because it doesn't require constant user interaction: simply select the file and launch it.
| Parameter | Miracast (Screen Casting) | DLNA (Cast to Device) | SMB (Shared Folder) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quality | Depends on Wi-Fi signal | Original (uncompressed) | Original (uncompressed) |
| Control | From PC and partially from TV | From PC and TV | Only with TV (remote control) |
| PC load | High (coding) | Low | Minimum |
| Complexity | Low | Low | Average |
Using third-party software
Built-in operating system tools don't always work perfectly, especially when dealing with specific video formats or complex network configurations. In such cases, specialized media server programs, such as Plex, Kodi or Universal Media Server.
Program Plex is one of the leaders in this field. After installing the server part on the computer and the client application on the TV LG (from the LG Content Store), you get a beautiful interface with posters, descriptions, and automatic content sorting. The server streams the video, transcoding it on the fly if necessary.
Another powerful tool is Kodi, which can be installed on both a PC and a Smart TV. It allows you to set up a unified media database. However, the setup Kodi requires a deeper dive into technical details, but provides maximum control over playback.
⚠️ Important: When using media servers, make sure Windows Firewall isn't blocking incoming connections for the new application. When you first launch the program, it will usually ask for permission to access the network—be sure to select "Allow."
Troubleshooting connection and buffering issues
Even with proper setup, users may encounter issues such as audio and video being out of sync, playback stopping, or the device not appearing in the list at all. Most often, this is due to an unstable signal. Wi-Fi or channel overload.
If the video frequently pauses for buffering, try lowering the streaming quality or moving the router closer to the TV. Another effective solution is switching to a cable connection for your desktop PC, which will free up airtime for wireless data transmission to the TV.
In some cases, resetting network settings can help. You can run the TCP/IP stack reset command on your computer. Open the command prompt as administrator and enter netsh int ip reset, then restart your computer. On your TV, you can perform a quick start or completely unplug it from the power source for 1 minute.
Why doesn't my computer see my LG TV in the list of devices?
Check that "Screen Share" or "Miracast" is enabled in the TV menu (often you need to launch the app on the TV for it to be visible). Ensure that your antivirus or firewall isn't blocking device detection on the local network. Also, ensure that both devices are connected to the same network (e.g., not to a router's guest network).
Is it possible to stream video from MacBook to LG TV?
Yes, but this will only work directly via AirPlay on newer LG models that support Apple AirPlay 2. Older models will require installing a third-party streaming app (such as AirBeamTV) on your Mac or using the Chrome browser with Cast functionality if your TV has a built-in Chromecast or YouTube app.
How to improve image quality during wireless transmission?
Use a router that supports Wi-Fi 5 (AC) or Wi-Fi 6 (AX) and connect devices to a 5 GHz network. Avoid using USB extenders for Wi-Fi adapters, as this reduces speed. For viewing heavy 4K HDR content, it's still preferable to use a direct HDMI connection or play the file directly from a USB drive inserted into the TV.