Modern TVs with operating system Android TV Android TVs have become powerful multimedia centers capable of playing content from any source. However, built-in browsers and apps can't always handle large files or specific formats that a personal computer easily handles. Therefore, the question of how to connect a PC to Android TV via Wi-Fi remains one of the most pressing for owners of smart devices.
Wireless connectivity eliminates the need to run long HDMI cables across the room, preserving the aesthetics of the interior and providing freedom of movement. There are several proven methods for establishing a connection between devices, from built-in screen sharing features to setting up a local network for file sharing. Each method has its own characteristics, data transfer speed, and resulting image quality.
In this article, we will examine in detail the technical nuances of setting up Miracast, protocol DLNA and technology Google CastYou'll learn how to avoid image lag, which routers are best for streaming 4K content, and how to turn your TV into a second monitor without losing quality.
Network requirements and equipment preparation
The foundation of a stable wireless connection is the quality of your home network. To stream high-resolution video, whether Full HD or 4K, it's critical that both devices—the computer and TV—are on the same local network. Router must support Wi-Fi ac (Wi-Fi 5) or ax (Wi-Fi 6) standards to ensure sufficient channel throughput.
If your router is dual-band, it's highly recommended to use the 5 GHz network instead of the congested 2.4 GHz. This will reduce interference from neighboring networks and household appliances, which is especially important for buffer-free video streaming. Make sure Wi-Fi is enabled on both devices and they can see each other.
⚠️ Attention: If your router broadcasts two different networks (guest and primary), make sure your PC and TV are connected to only one of them. Isolating clients on guest networks can prevent devices from discovering each other.
It's also worth checking that your wireless adapter drivers on your computer and your TV's operating system are up-to-date. Manufacturers regularly release updates that improve broadcast protocol compatibility.
Mirror your Windows screen using Miracast
The easiest way to display an image from a computer on a large screen is to use technology Miracast, which is built into the Windows 10 and 11 operating systems and is called "Projection." This method allows you to duplicate your screen or extend your desktop onto a TV without installing additional software.
To get started, make sure Wi-Fi Direct is enabled on your TV. On most Android TV models, this happens automatically when you activate signal reception mode. On your computer, press the following key combination: Win + Kto open the connection panel.
The system will begin searching for available displays. Once your TV's name appears in the list, click it. A connection confirmation prompt may appear on the TV screen, which you'll need to accept with your remote. The image from your PC monitor will then appear on the TV.
- 📺 Open the signal source menu on your TV and select "Screen Mirroring" or "Wireless Monitoring".
- 💻 On your PC, go to Settings → System → Projecting to this PC and make sure the feature is enabled.
- 🔗 Click
Win + Kand select your TV from the list of detected devices. - 🎮 For games, select the "Second screen only" mode to reduce the load on your PC's graphics card.
It's worth noting that when using Miracast, there may be a slight lag in the mouse cursor. This is normal for watching movies, but can be disruptive during fast-paced games. The protocol compresses the video stream in real time, which requires processor resources.
Setting up a DLNA server for media files
If your goal is not to broadcast your desktop, but to play a movie or music stored on your computer's hard drive, the best solution is a technology DLNAIt allows the TV to view PC folders as network storage and play content using its own decoder.
Windows has a built-in media server feature. You don't need to install any third-party software; you just need to configure folder access correctly. Open "Streaming Media Settings" in Control Panel and enable this option for your network.
Then select the folders that will be available to the TV (e.g., "Videos," "Music," "Pictures"). On the TV, launch the "Media Player" or "Gallery" app, where your computer should appear in the list of sources.
| Parameter | Description | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Protocol | DLNA / UPnP | The standard for all Smart TVs |
| Video codec | MKV, MP4, AVI | Depends on TV support |
| Audio track | AC3, DTS, AAC | Check TV licenses |
| Subtitles | SRT, ASS | External files are better |
The advantage of DLNA is that image quality isn't compromised by compression, as the file is transmitted in its original format. However, playback controls (such as rewinding and pausing) are controlled using the TV remote, not the computer.
Problems with audio formats
If your TV doesn't play sound in a movie (there's a picture, but no sound), it most likely doesn't support the AC3 or DTS audio codec. In this case, installing a third-party player on your TV, such as VLC or MX Player, which have their own codecs, will help.
Using Google Chrome to Cast Tabs
Browser Google Chrome has a built-in broadcast function that works via the protocol ChromecastThis is ideal if you need to display the contents of a specific browser tab, a presentation, or a video from a website without copy protection.
To start broadcasting, open your PC browser, click the three dots in the upper right corner, and select "Save and Share" → "Broadcast..." In the window that opens, select the target device—your Android TV.
It's important to select the right streaming source. You can stream just one tab, the entire desktop, or a specific application. For maximum quality, select "Full Screen" or "Tab" if the video is playing directly in the browser.
⚠️ Attention: When streaming a browser tab, audio may be delayed. For movies, it's better to use built-in apps on your TV or DLNA.
This method is convenient because it doesn't require setting up network shares or complex settings. Simply have the browser running and the devices on the same network. Control is available from the PC keyboard or via the browser's pop-up menu.
Remote access and control via TeamViewer or AnyDesk
For advanced users who need full control of their computer from the comfort of their couch, there are remote access programs. By installing the client on Android TV (via Google Play) and the host program on your PC, you get a full desktop experience.
The most popular solutions are TeamViewer, AnyDesk or RustDeskAfter installing the apps on both devices, you'll need to enter the access code and password. The TV will display the Windows desktop, and you can control the cursor using the remote, mouse, or smartphone.
This method is great for presenting documents, working with spreadsheets, or configuring a system. However, it's ineffective for watching video due to the low frame rate and compression artifacts of the real-time video stream.
- 📥 Install the Remote Desktop application on Android TV from the Play Market store.
- 🖥️ Launch the server part of the program on your computer and copy the ID.
- 🔐 Enter the connection code on your TV and confirm access on your PC.
- ⌨️ Use the trackpad mode on the remote for convenient cursor control.
☑️ Check before connection
Solution and speed optimization
Even with proper setup, users may encounter issues such as choppy video, out-of-sync audio, or an inability to find the device. Most often, the cause lies in the Wi-Fi adapter's power-saving settings or channel congestion.
Try disabling power saving for your wireless network adapter in Windows Device Manager. You should also reboot your router if it's been running continuously for a long time, which could cause the buffer memory to overflow.
If you're using a VPN on your computer, your local network may become unavailable to your TV because the traffic is routed through a virtual tunnel. Temporarily disable the VPN to test the connection.
⚠️ Attention: Antivirus programs and Windows firewalls often block incoming connections from unknown devices. If you're having trouble detecting your TV, add your home network to the list of trusted networks.
To reduce latency while gaming or working, close background applications on your PC that consume bandwidth (such as torrents and cloud syncs). This will free up bandwidth for transmitting the video stream to your TV.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why doesn't the TV see the computer in the list of devices?
Check that both devices are connected to the same network (SSID). Ensure that the network profile on your PC is set to "Private" and not "Public." Also, try temporarily disabling your firewall.
Is it possible to connect a PC to Android TV without a router?
Yes, some TVs support Wi-Fi Direct hotspots. This allows your computer to connect directly to the TV, but your internet connection will be disabled.
How to reduce audio latency during broadcasting?
Lag is often caused by the TV's audio processing. Try switching the sound mode in the TV settings to "Game" or "PC." Also, using an optical cable or HDMI ARC may provide better synchronization than Bluetooth.
Does my old router support 4K streaming?
4K requires high bandwidth. If your router only supports the N standard (2.4 GHz), stable 4K streaming is unlikely. You'll need the AC (Wi-Fi 5) or AX (Wi-Fi 6) standard and a 5 GHz frequency.