Modern LG TVs based on the platform webOS, open up a wide range of multimedia options for users. You no longer need to search for HDMI cables or transfer large files to a flash drive to watch a movie in high definition. Wireless technology allows you to stream content directly from your PC or laptop to the big screen, turning your living room into a home theater.
However, the setup process can sometimes be challenging for those encountering it for the first time. There are several proven methods, each with its own characteristics and advantages. In this article, we'll take a detailed look at how to set up a connection and which standards it uses. Smart TV and how to avoid common mistakes in signal transmission.
Before you begin, make sure both devices are connected to the same local network. This is a fundamental requirement for most data transfer protocols to work. If your router supports dual-band mode, it's best to use the network. 5 GHz to ensure a stable video stream transmission speed without delays.
Using the built-in Smart Share (DLNA) feature
The most classic and reliable method, which doesn't require installing additional software on your computer, is DLNA technology. On LG TVs, it's implemented via an app. Smart Share, which is usually pre-installed on the system. This method is ideal for watching downloaded movies and TV series or listening to music stored on the PC's hard drive.
To get started, you need to activate the media server in the Windows operating system. Go to "Settings" from the menu. Start → Settings → Network & InternetSelect "Sharing Options" and enable network discovery. Your files will then be visible to other devices on your local network.
Next, you need to select the folders you want to share. Right-click the video folder, select "Share," and add the device. LG TV to the list of allowed ones. On the remote control, press the "Home" button and look for the "Media" or "Smart Share" icon.
- 🎬 Open the Photos & Videos or Music app on your TV screen.
- 💻 Select your computer's name from the list of available devices.
- 📂 Navigate through folders using the cursor on the remote control.
- ▶️ Click on the file to start playback without buffering.
It's important to note that transmission speed directly depends on the power of your router and your distance from it. If the video starts to stutter, the signal may be weak or the channel may be overloaded with other devices.
⚠️ Important: Codec formats must be supported by your TV. If the file doesn't open, it may be because the TV is unable to decode it, even if the connection is established correctly.
Screen casting via Miracast and WiDi
If you want to show a presentation, display photos from a browser, or play a game on a larger screen, you'll need mirroring technology. In the LG ecosystem, it's often called Screen ShareUnlike DLNA, it's not the file itself that is broadcast, but the video signal from the computer's graphical interface.
Windows 10 and 11 have built-in support for Miracast, so no third-party software is needed. On your LG TV, find the "Screen Share" app in the Smart TV menu and launch it. The device will enter connection standby mode.
On your computer, press the key combination Win + KThe "Connection" sidebar will appear on the right. Your TV should appear in the list of available wireless displays. Click it to begin pairing. A confirmation prompt may appear on the TV screen, which you'll need to accept with your remote.
⚠️ Please note: When streaming your desktop, the load on your processor and Wi-Fi module increases significantly. This may lead to audio and video desynchronization in movies.
This method may be less preferable for gaming or fast-paced content due to input lag. However, it's ideal for static content or web surfing. Make sure your PC's Wi-Fi adapter drivers are updated to the latest version.
Setup via third-party applications and browser
Built-in tools don't always work correctly, especially when using specific file formats or complex codecs. In such cases, third-party solutions often offer more flexible buffering and decoding settings. A popular option is using a media player. VLC or specialized software like Plex.
Application Plex turns your computer into a powerful media server with a beautiful interface. It automatically downloads movie covers, descriptions, and actors, creating a user-friendly interface on your TV screen. You need to install the server part on your PC and the client application from LG Content Store on TV.
An alternative option is to use the built-in browser webOSYou can open the web version of a video service (such as YouTube or Vimeo) directly in the TV's browser, but you can also cast a tab from the Chrome browser on your PC. Click the three dots in the browser, select "Cast," and select your LG device (if your TV supports Chromecast Built-in).
| Method | Delay | Quality | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|
| DLNA | Low | Original | High |
| Miracast | Average | Depends on the network | Average |
| Plex Server | Low | Original | High |
| Chrome Cast | Low | High | High |
Using specialized software often solves subtitle issues that may not display correctly during standard broadcasts. Furthermore, these apps can transcode the stream on the fly if the TV doesn't support the source file format.
Problems with subtitles
If subtitles don't work when streaming via DLNA, try renaming the subtitle file so that it exactly matches the name of the video file and place them in the same folder.
Connection problems and their solutions
Even with proper setup, situations may arise where the computer "doesn't see" the TV or the connection constantly drops. Most often, the cause lies in Windows Firewall or antivirus settings that block incoming connections from the local network.
Check your network type in Windows. If the network is marked as "Public," the system is restricting your device's visibility for security reasons. Switch the network profile to "Private" in the Wi-Fi connection settings. This will allow data exchange between devices in your home.
It's also worth paying attention to the Wi-Fi adapter's power saving settings. The system may try to conserve power by temporarily disabling the module, which can lead to interruptions in the stream. Go to Device Manager → Network Adapters, select your Wi-Fi module, go to Properties and on the Power Management tab, uncheck the box next to Allow device shutdown.
- 🔄 Restart the router and both devices (TV and PC).
- 🛡️ Check your antivirus and Windows firewall settings.
- 📶 Make sure both devices are on the same subnet (e.g. 192.168.1.x).
- 🚫 Disable your VPN on your computer while streaming.
If problems persist, try temporarily disabling IPv6 in the network connection properties. In some cases, this helps establish a stable connection between older routers and newer TVs.
☑️ Network diagnostics
Features of 4K and HDR video transmission
Streaming ultra-high definition (4K) video content requires significantly more bandwidth than Full HD. If your router only operates within the range 2.4 GHz, stable 4K video streaming is almost impossible due to speed limitations and noisy range.
For comfortable viewing, you need to use a dual-band router and connect your devices to the network. 5 GHzIt is also important that the router itself supports the standards. Wi-Fi 5 (ac) or Wi-Fi 6 (ax)Old standards may simply not be able to handle the bitrate of a large file.
Using Miracast for 4K content also places a strain on your computer's GPU. Make sure your video drivers are up to date, as older versions may not support the H.265 (HEVC) hardware encoding required for 4K.
⚠️ Note: Interfaces and menu item names may vary depending on the webOS version and TV model. Always check the latest documentation for your specific LG series.
If your 4K wireless streaming is choppy, consider using a wired connection (LAN) for your TV, leaving Wi-Fi only for your computer, or vice versa to reduce airtime.
Comparison of wired and wireless methods
Despite the convenience of Wi-Fi, the physical limitations of wireless technology cannot be ignored. Radio signals are susceptible to interference from microwave ovens, neighboring networks, and even aquariums. A wired connection via HDMI or LAN always remains the benchmark for stability.
However, modern compression technologies and data transmission protocols make it possible to achieve quality visually indistinguishable from cable, provided the network is ideal. For the average user, the difference between a high-quality stream over Wi-Fi and a cable connection may be imperceptible.
The method you choose depends on your needs. DLNA is suitable for one-time photo viewing, Miracast is suitable for showing a work presentation, and for creating a permanent media library, it's better to set up a full-fledged Plex or Emby server.
Technology is evolving and the standard Wi-Fi 6E promises even greater speeds, which will finally blur the line between wired and wireless connections for multimedia tasks.
Why can't the TV see the computer on the network?
Most often, the issue is related to the network type (public vs. private) or a firewall blocking it. Also, check if the SMB feature is enabled in your TV settings if you're using older versions of Windows.
Is it possible to stream video with 5.1 sound?
Yes, multichannel audio is transmitted when using DLNA and Miracast. However, the TV must support decoding of the corresponding format (Dolby Digital, DTS), otherwise the sound may be missing or played in stereo.
Does internet speed affect video streaming from a PC?
No, if you're transferring files from your computer's hard drive. Internet speed is only important for online services. Local speed depends solely on your router and your distance from it.