How to connect a computer to a TV via a Wi-Fi router: 5 proven methods

Do you want to display your computer screen on a large TV, but don't want to run wires across the room? Connecting via Wi-Fi router — the optimal solution for streaming movies, games, or presentations without unnecessary cables. In this article, we'll explore all the current methods for wirelessly synchronizing a PC and TV, from standard protocols to specialized applications.

The main advantage of this approach is flexibility: you can control content directly from your keyboard or remote control, without leaving your couch. However, not all methods are equally stable: some require a powerful router with support Wi-Fi 5/6, and in some cases, basic equipment will suffice. We tested each option on different TV models (Samsung QLED, LG OLED, Sony Bravia) and compiled step-by-step instructions taking into account typical mistakes.

Important: If your TV was released before 2018, some features (e.g. Miracast) may be missing. In this case, alternative solutions like Google Cast or Steam Link, which work even on older models.

1. Equipment preparation: what to check before setup

Before you begin connecting, make sure your equipment meets the minimum requirements. Here are the key points:

• 📶 Router: must support the standard 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) or newer. Older models on 802.11n (Wi-Fi 4) may slow down when transmitting 4K video.
• 🖥️ Computer: on Windows 10/11 the feature must be enabled Projection onto this computer (for Miracast). On macOS you will need AirPlay.
• 📺 TV: check for built-in Wi-Fi and support DLNA, Miracast or Google Cast in the specifications.
• 🔌 Nutrition: All devices must be connected to the same power source (via UPS or wall outlet) to avoid synchronization issues.

Pay special attention Wi-Fi channel: if the router is operating on a congested channel (for example, 6 or 11 (in the 2.4 GHz band), the video will lag. Use analytical tools like Wi-Fi Analyzer (Android) or NetSpot (Windows/macOS) to select a free channel.

⚠️ Attention: If your router issues IP addresses in the range 192.168.0.x, and the TV is set to 192.168.1.x, the connection will fail. Make sure all devices are on the same subnet.

2. Method 1: DLNA – simple media streaming

DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) is the most universal protocol for transferring photos, music, and video from a PC to a TV. It works on most modern TVs and doesn't require any additional software on the computer (standard Windows features are sufficient).

How it works: You share a folder on your PC, and the TV connects to it as a network storage device. The downside is DLNA does not broadcast the PC screen in real time, but only plays filesThis method is not suitable for games or desktop.

Setting up on Windows:

1. Open Control Panel → Network and Internet → Network and Sharing Center.
2. Select Change advanced sharing options.
3. Turn on Network discovery And File and Printer Sharing for the current profile (private network).
4. In File Explorer, right-click on the folder containing your media files → Properties → Access → Share.

Setting up on TV:

• 🔍 Go to the menu Network → DLNA (on Samsung this can be called AllShare, on LG — SmartShare).
• 🖥️ Select your computer from the list of devices.
• 📂 Go to the shared folder and run the file.

3. Method 2: Miracast – Screen mirroring without delays

Miracast — wireless screen mirroring technology built into Windows 10/11 and most Smart TVs after 2015. Unlike DLNA, it transmits the entire desktop in real time, which is convenient for presentations, games, or watching streaming services.

The main requirement is that both the PC and TV must support Miracast. You can check this on Windows like this:

1. Click Win + R, enter dxdiag and press Enter.
2. In the window DirectX Diagnostic Tool go to the tab Save all information.
3. Open the saved file and find the line Miracast: Available.

How to connect:

• 🖥️ On PC: Settings → System → Project to this PC → select Available everywhere.
• 📺 On TV: turn on the function Screen Mirroring (on Samsung — Smart View, on LG — Screen Share).
• 🔄 On PC: Click Win + K and select your TV from the list.

⚠️ AttentionMiracast is sensitive to network congestion. If your router is operating within range 2.4 GHz, switch to 5 GHz for stable broadcasting.

What should I do if Miracast doesn't find my TV?

1. Update your Wi-Fi adapter drivers on your PC (especially if you have Intel or Realtek).

2. Disable any VPN or proxy on your computer - they may be blocking local detection.

3. Reboot your router and make sure that the mode is enabled on it. WMM (Wi-Fi Multimedia) in the wireless network settings.

4. Method 3: Google Cast (Chromecast) - for streaming and browsing

If your TV supports Google Cast (or you have a set-top box Chromecast), you can broadcast browser tabs, YouTube videos, or mobile device screens to it. This method is universal, but requires installation. Google Chrome on PC.

Advantage over Miracast: Google Cast allows you to cast just one browser tab without loading the entire desktop.This saves resources and reduces latency.

Instructions:

1. Make sure your PC and TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
2. Open Google Chrome and click on the three dots in the upper right corner → Broadcast.
3. Select your TV from the list of devices.
4. Select source: Broadcast tab (for browser) or Broadcast your desktop (for full duplication).

To stream local files (for example, movies in the format MP4) use the extension VideoStream for Google ChromecastIt allows you to stream content directly from your PC's folders without uploading it to the cloud.

Install the latest version of Google Chrome|Connect your TV and PC to the same Wi-Fi network|Update your TV's firmware (if available)|Disable ad blockers in Chrome (they may interfere with streaming)-->

5. Method 4: Steam Link – for gamers

If you want to play on the big screen without buying a console, Steam Link — the perfect solution. This app from Valve lets you stream games from your PC to your TV over a local network with minimal latency (up to 30 ms with a good router).

Requirements:

• 🎮 A computer with installed Steam and games in the library.
• 📺 TV with support Steam Link (or prefix NVIDIA Shield, Raspberry Pi with installed software).
• 🌐 Router with support Wi-Fi 5/6 and a free channel 5 GHz.

Setting:

1. Install the application Steam Link on TV (available in Google Play Store for Android TV or App Store For Apple TV).
2. On your PC, open Steam → Settings → Remote Access and turn it on Enable streaming.
3. Launch Steam Link on TV, select your PC from the list and connect.
4. Connect a gamepad (for example, Xbox Controller or DualShock) to the TV via Bluetooth.

⚠️ Attention: For comfortable gaming via Wi-Fi, the connection speed should be no lower than 50 MbpsYou can check it through speedtest.net, connecting to the same router as the TV.

6. Method 5: Manufacturer's software (Samsung DeX, LG TV Plus)

Many brands offer their own solutions for connecting PCs and TVs. These are often more stable than universal protocols, but they only work with devices from a single manufacturer.

Examples of popular applications:

• 📱 Samsung DeX: allows you to use your TV as a monitor for your smartphone or PC (requires Samsung Galaxy with DeX support).
• 📺 LG TV Plus: Mirror your Windows/macOS screen to TV LG (supports remote control).
• 🎮 Sony Video & TV SideView: remote control of TV from PC and content streaming.

How to use LG TV Plus:

1. Download the program from official LG website and install on PC.
2. Connect your TV and computer to the same Wi-Fi network.
3. Launch LG TV Plus, select your TV and confirm the connection on the TV screen.
4. Use functions Screen Share (mirroring) or Media Player (file playback).

The advantage of proprietary solutions is additional features, such as using the TV remote control as a PC mouse or automatic stream quality settings.

7. Troubleshooting: Why the TV doesn't see the PC

If the connection does not work, please check the following:

• 🔌 Router: reboot it and check that the mode is enabled WMM (in Wi-Fi settings).
• 🔒 Firewall: temporarily disable it on your PC or add exceptions for the ports used (eg. 3580 For LG TV Plus).
• 📡 Wi-Fi channel: if you use 2.4 GHz, switch to 5 GHz or choose a less crowded channel.
• 🔄 IP addresses: Make sure that the PC and TV are receiving addresses from the same router (check in ipconfig on PC and network settings on TV).

If the problem persists, update the router firmware and the Wi-Fi adapter drivers on your PC. For diagnostics, use the command in Command line:

ping [TV IP address]

If pings don't work (The specified node is unavailable), the problem is in the network settings.

8. Comparison of methods: which one to choose

For films and music will do DLNA or Google Cast. For games — Steam Link or Miracast (if the router is powerful). For presentations better Miracast or proprietary utilities.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to connect a PC to a TV via Wi-Fi without a router?

Yes, but with some caveats. Some TVs (for example, Samsung With Wi-Fi Direct) can create a direct connection with a PC, but this is unstable. It's better to use a router—it provides a reliable connection and supports all protocols.

Why does video lag when streaming over Wi-Fi?

The reasons may be different:

• Weak Wi-Fi signal (check the level in the router settings).
• Congested channel (use 5 GHz or change the channel in 2.4 GHz).
• Low router performance (for example, models up to Wi-Fi 5 won't handle 4K).
• Background tasks on your PC (close unnecessary programs after Task Manager).

How to stream audio from a PC to a TV via Wi-Fi?

When mirroring your screen (Miracast, Steam Link), the audio is transmitted automatically. If you use DLNA, the sound will come from the TV. For Google Cast The audio is broadcast along with the video, but you can select the source in the Windows settings:

1. Click on the speaker icon in the tray → Open sound settings.
2. In the section Conclusion Select your TV (it should appear after connecting).

Does Miracast work on macOS?

No, Miracast — is a Microsoft technology and is not supported on Mac. Use AirPlay (For Apple TV) or Google Cast (via Chrome).

Can I play online games with Steam Link over Wi-Fi?

Technically yes, but with some caveats:

• Delay (input lag) will be higher than via cable (from 30 ms).
• A stable connection is required 5 GHz at a speed of 50 Mbps.
• For shooters (CS:GO, Valorant), it is better to use a wired connection from your PC to the router.