Changing a router or updating home network settings often requires users to reconnect all their devices. Smart TVs, being complex multimedia centers, retain old login credentials, leading to connection errors when attempting to access the internet. Many users mistakenly believe that entering a new password requires a complete factory reset, which is time-consuming and requires reinstalling all apps.
In fact, the process of updating credentials in most modern models takes only a couple of minutes and is performed through the standard settings menu. The key point The key here is to correctly determine the current connection status: if the TV is connected to a different network or uses a cable, the steps may differ. In this article, we'll detail how to change saved Wi-Fi data on devices from various manufacturers, avoiding common input errors.
It is worth considering that the interfaces of operating systems Android TV, Tizen, webOS and proprietary shells may differ visually, but the logic of the network modules is the same. Changing the password in the TV menu does not change the password of the router itself, but only updates the access key for a specific device. This is an important detail that is often overlooked when trying to configure security for the entire network via remote control.
Preparing to change network settings
Before starting the procedure, make sure your new router is turned on and broadcasting a signal, and that you have a remote with working navigation buttons handy. If you just purchased a new router, make sure it's configured and operating in the correct frequency range (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz), as older TV models may not recognize this standard. Wi-Fi 6. It is also important to check whether the Flight Mode or the function is enabled on the TV. Wi-Fi Direct, which can block the search for available access points.
To make entering a complex password containing special characters easier, it's recommended to prepare it in a text file on your smartphone or simply keep a note handy. The virtual keyboard on a TV screen is often inconvenient, and accidentally pressing the "Back" button can reset all entered text. Some systems allow scanning. QR code for quick connection, which is an excellent alternative to manual entry.
⚠️ Note: If your TV only supports the 2.4 GHz band, and your new router is configured to operate exclusively in the 5 GHz band with the same network name (SSID), the device may not find the network at all. In this case, you will need to temporarily separate the network names in the router settings.
General algorithm of actions through the settings menu
Regardless of brand, the path to network settings is usually hidden in the main system configuration menu. You'll need to press the button Settings (gear) on the remote control or call up the context menu with the button MenuNext, look for a section whose name contains the words "Network," "Connections," or "Connections." This is where all wireless connection profiles are stored.
After entering the network section, select the Wi-Fi control panel. If the TV has previously been connected to a network, it will display the "Connected" status or the name of your home network. To change the password, find the "Forget Network," "Delete Network," or "Disconnect" options. Without completing this step The device will try to connect using the old key and return an authorization error instead of asking for a new password.
Once a network is "forgotten," it will disappear from the list of active connections. Now you need to rescan for available access points, find your network in the list, and click on it. The system will prompt you for a password. Use the on-screen keyboard, being careful about case (upper and lowercase letters are important). After entering, confirm the action by pressing OK or Connect.
☑️ Checklist before entering your password
Instructions for Samsung TVs (Tizen OS)
In Samsung TVs the interface Tizen It's highly visual, but the logic remains the same. Click the button Home on the remote, then move left to the end of the menu and select the item SettingsIn the window that opens, go to the section General, and then select NetHere you will see the connection status and the name of your network.
To change your password, select the item Managing network settings Or simply click on your network name if it appears in the list. In the menu that appears, select the option Delete or Forget the networkAfter that, go back to the list of available networks, find your access point and click ConnectThe system will prompt you to enter a new security key.
Pay attention to the on-screen keyboard: in Samsung it often has hidden symbols that are accessible via a button with a number or symbol (?#1). If your password contains special characters, be sure to switch the keyboard layout. New Samsung models also offer a feature Mobile Connect, which allows you to broadcast network settings from your smartphone to your TV, simplifying the process.
What should I do if my Samsung keyboard doesn't display the character I want?
Sometimes the system font or firmware version can hide rare characters. Try simplifying the password in your router settings, using only letters and numbers, or use the WPS method if supported by your router and TV.
Setting up Wi-Fi on LG TVs (webOS)
operating system webOS LG uses a unique control system via a magic remote. Press the button with the gear icon (Settings) at the top of the screen or on the remote. In the lower left corner, select "All settings" (three dots), then go to the section Net -> Wi-Fi connection.
In the list of networks, find the one you are connected to and click on it. In the window that appears, select the option Disable or Forget the networkThis is a critical step, as the webOS interface doesn't allow you to simply change the password for an existing profile—you need to create a new connection. Once you delete the profile, the network will disappear from your "Favorites" list.
Now press the button Add a new network Or simply select your network from the general list of available ones. Enter a new password using the on-screen cursor. On LG TVs with voice control, you can try dictating the password if the feature is enabled, although manual entry remains the most secure method for complex character combinations.
Steps for Android TV and Google TV
TVs based on Android TV (Sony, Philips, Xiaomi, TCL) and new devices with Google TV have a similar menu structure. Go to the upper right corner of the screen, select the gear icon (Settings). The path may differ slightly: look for the section Network and Internet or simply Net.
In the Wi-Fi menu, you'll see a list of networks. If your network shows as "Saved" or "Connection Error," tap it and select Delete network (Forget network). This action will clear the authorization cache for this access point. On some Android TV versions, you need to tap the gear next to the network name to see the control menu.
After deleting, the network can be found in the list of available networks below. Tap it to connect. Android TV often offers a quick connection feature via QR code: a code will appear on the screen that can be scanned with a smartphone camera (via Google Lens or Wi-Fi settings), and the phone will prompt you to share the network with the TV. This eliminates the need to use the remote for text input.
Table: Comparison of menu paths across brands
To help you quickly navigate the interfaces of different manufacturers, we've compiled a summary table. It will help you quickly find the section you need, even if the item names differ slightly in your firmware version.
| Brand / OS | Main section | Subsection | Action to change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung (Tizen) | Settings -> General | Net | Delete network -> Reconnect |
| LG (webOS) | All settings | Network -> Wi-Fi | Disable -> Add new |
| Sony (Android) | Settings | Network and Internet | Forget network -> Select network |
| Xiaomi (Android) | Settings (gear) | Net | Remove -> Connect |
| Philips (Android) | Configuration | Wireless networks | Forget -> Scan |
Alternative connection methods (WPS and QR code)
If entering a password through the remote control is difficult, you can use the technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method allows you to connect your TV to your router by pressing a physical button, without entering a security key. Press the WPS button on the router, then select "Connect via WPS" in the TV menu (Network section). The devices will automatically exchange encryption keys.
Another modern method is using a QR code. This feature is primarily available on TVs with Android TV 9.0 and above, as well as some newer Samsung and LG models. When you select a network, a square code appears on the TV screen. By pointing your smartphone's camera (which already has Wi-Fi configured) at it, you can instantly transfer credentials to the TV. This is not only convenient but also eliminates typing errors.
There is also a method of connecting via the manufacturer's mobile application (for example, SmartThings for Samsung or LG ThinQ). In this case, the phone acts as a remote control and configurator. You connect the phone to a new Wi-Fi network, open the app, find the TV (they must be on the same network or the TV is temporarily connected via the phone's hotspot), and change the Wi-Fi network in the device settings. The app will automatically transfer the new password to the TV.
Why doesn't the WPS button work?
The WPS feature is considered a security vulnerability, so many modern routers and TVs have it disabled by default or completely removed from the firmware. If you don't see this option, use the standard password entry.
Solving common connection problems
Users often encounter a situation where the password is entered correctly, but the TV displays "Incorrect password" or "Connection failed." First, check your keyboard layout: you may have Cyrillic enabled instead of Latin, or vice versa. Also, make sure that Caps Lock, because passwords are case sensitive.
The second common cause is incompatibility of encryption standards. If the router is configured to use only the protocol WPA3, and the TV is old and only supports WPA2, there will be no connection. In this case, you need to go to the router settings (via a computer or phone) and change the security mode to mixed (WPA2/WPA3 Mixed) or temporarily for WPA2.
The third problem may be that the TV's memory is full. If the system partition is full of app caches, the Wi-Fi module may not work properly. Try a full reboot of the TV (unplug it for 1 minute), rather than simply putting it into sleep mode. This will clear temporary network service files.
⚠️ Please note: Interfaces and menu item names may change after TV software updates. If you don't find an exact match, look for synonyms (e.g., "Network," "Wireless"). Always consult the manufacturer's latest documentation for your specific model.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to change the Wi-Fi password on a TV if the remote is broken?
Yes, it's possible, but more complicated. If your TV supports smartphone control (via Wi-Fi Direct or a local network), you can use the remote app. Some models also have physical buttons on the TV body that allow you to navigate the menu, although this is extremely inconvenient. As a last resort, you can connect a USB keyboard or mouse if the TV supports these peripherals.
Will the TV remember the new password if I unplug it?
Yes, modern Smart TVs have non-volatile memory for storing network settings. After changing the password and successfully connecting, the data is saved permanently, even if the device is completely powered off. You'll only need to re-enter your settings if you perform a factory reset or change your router.
What should I do if my TV can't see the 5 GHz network after changing my router?
Most likely, your TV only supports the 2.4 GHz band. New routers often combine the two frequencies under a single name (Smart Connect). Try separating the networks in your router settings by giving them different names (for example, Home_2G and Home_5G), and connect your TV to the network with a 2G set-top box.
Does changing my password affect the functionality of apps like YouTube or Netflix?
No, changing your Wi-Fi password only affects your internet connection. However, without a working internet connection, apps won't work. After successfully changing the password and restoring your connection, all apps will continue to function normally, and your account authorization will not be affected.
How do I reset all network settings on my TV at once?
Most models have a "Network Reset" or "Smart Hub Reset" option in the "Network" section. This will delete all saved Wi-Fi profiles, DNS settings, and IP addresses, returning the network module to its default state. You'll then need to re-enter your network password.