How to watch movies from your computer on your TV via Wi-Fi: all the working methods

Have you downloaded a movie to your computer but want to watch it on your big TV screen without the hassle and hassle of wires? Transferring video over Wi-Fi solves this problem in a few minutes, but it's not always obvious which method to choose. Depending on the TV model, PC operating system, and even the router, different technologies are available: from built-in DLNA to specialized applications like Plex or Kodi.

The main problem is that many users are faced with audio delays, interruptions in broadcasts, or the inability to play files in the format MKV with multichannel audioWe've tested all the current methods and compiled step-by-step instructions that take into account common mistakes. In this article, you'll find not only universal methods (suitable for Samsung, LG, Sony Bravia and other brands), but also niche solutions for older TV models without Smart functions.

Before you begin, please check two key conditions: 1) The computer and TV are connected to one Wi-Fi network (or the PC is connected to the router via cable, but in the same local network). 2) The TV has the latest firmware updates installed - this is critical for operation Miracast And Google Cast.

1. DLNA: Built-in media server for movies and music

DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) is a standard that allows devices on the same network to exchange media files. Almost all modern Smart TVs support this technology out of the box. The main advantage is that you don't need to install additional software on your TV.

To play a movie from your PC:

1. Turn on your computer shared folder access with films:

   • Windows: Open Control Panel → Network and Internet → HomeGroup (or Settings → Network & Internet → Sharing options (in Windows 10/11). Select the folder, right-click → Properties → Access → Sharing.
   • macOS: System Preferences → Sharing → Files & Folders.

On your TV, open the app Media player, Photos and videos or similar (the name depends on the brand). Select your computer from the sources.

⚠️ Attention: DLNA does not support subtitles in individual files (.srt) and may "slow down" during playback 4K HDR-content. For such cases, it is better to use Plex (section 4).

Computer and TV on the same network|Folder sharing enabled|Media player installed on TV|Files in supported formats (MP4, AVI, MKV)-->

2. Miracast: Wireless Screen Mirroring

Miracast — wireless screen mirroring technology built into Windows (starting with 8.1) and many Smart TVs. Unlike DLNA, it doesn't transfer a file, but picture from a PC screen in real time. This is convenient for watching movies in online cinemas (for example, Kion or Ivi), where downloading is prohibited.

How to connect:

1. On TV: turn on the mode Screen Mirroring (at Samsung — Smart View, at LG — Screen Share).

2. On PC (Windows): Click Win + K → Select your TV from the list. If the option is missing, check:

   • Miracast support by yours Wi-Fi adapter (V Device Manager find Network Adapters → Wireless Display).
   • Driver updates (especially for laptops with Intel Wi-Fi).

⚠️ Attention: When using Miracast it is possible audio delays up to 200 ms — critical for films with dialogue. To sync audio, try:

• 🔊 Reduce audio bitrate in Windows settings: Settings → System → Sound → Device properties → Advanced properties → Advanced → select 16 bit, 44100 Hz.
• 📺 Turn off sound processing on your TV (Samsung: Settings → Sound → Equalizer → Off).

3. Google Chromecast and built-in Google Cast

If your TV supports Google TV (or the device is connected Chromecast), the easiest way is to use the function Google CastIt allows you to "send" video from your computer to your TV without duplicating the entire screen, saving resources.

Instructions for Windows/macOS:

1. Install a browser Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge (new versions).

2. Open the movie in your browser (for example, on the website YouTube or in a local player via file://).

3. Click the icon Broadcast (in the upper right corner of the browser) → select yours Chromecast or TV.

For local files, use the extension VideoStream for Google Chromecast:

• 📁 Drag the file into the extension window.
• 🖥️ Select a device for broadcasting.
• 🎬 A player with subtitle support will open on the TV.

What to do if Chromecast is slow?

If the video is choppy, try:

1. Switch the router to the 5 GHz channel (in the Wi-Fi settings).

2. Reduce the video bitrate to 10 Mbps (in VideoStream settings).

3. Connect Chromecast via an Ethernet cable through an adapter (if the model supports it).

4. Plex: Media Server with Transcoding

Plex — is an advanced alternative to DLNA that automatically converts formats according to your TV's capabilities. For example, if the TV doesn't support DTS, Plex transcodes the audio to AAC On the fly. The service also saves viewing history, supports subtitles, and works on mobile devices.

How to set up:

1. Download Plex Media Server on PC with official website and install.

2. Add movie folders to the library (in the web interface http://localhost:32400/web).

3. Install the application on TV Plex (available in LG Content Store, Samsung Apps etc.) and log in.

⚠️ Attention: For transcoding 4K HDR you will need a powerful processor (from Intel Core i5 8th generation or Ryzen 5). On weak PCs, enable the option in Plex settings Limit transcoding quality to 1080p.

5. Local network via SMB (for advanced users)

If DLNA is unstable, you can set up access to PC folders via the protocol SMB (Server Message Block). This method requires manual configuration but ensures stable data transfer without interruptions.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. On PC:

   1. Open Control Panel → Programs → Turn Windows features on or off.
   2. Activate Support for SMB 1.0/CIFS file sharing (only if TV is older than 2018).
   3. In Settings → Network & Internet → Sharing options turn on File and Printer Sharing.

2. On TV: In the media player, select Add a network drive and enter the path \\your_PC_IP\folder_name (For example, \\192.168.1.100\Films).

🔧 Technical nuance: For security, create a separate user on your PC with limited rights only for accessing media files. Computer Management → Local Users add a new user (eg tv_user) and assign it a password.

6. Alternative methods: VLC, Kodi, and USB adapters

If none of the above methods work, consider these options:

• 🎵 VLC + UPnP: Player VLC can broadcast video to TV via UPnP/DLNA. Open View → Playlist → select file → right click Play on device.
• 📺 Kodi: Install Kodi on TV and PC, then add the network folder as a source. Supports all formats, including ISO disk images.
• 🔌 USB-Wi-Fi adapter: For older TVs without Smart functions, buy an adapter (for example, AnyCast or Miracast-dongle) and connect it to the port HDMI.

⚠️ Attention: When using Kodi on TVs with limited memory (for example, LG WebOS 2016–2018) Clear the app cache after watching, otherwise the TV will start to slow down over time.

7. Troubleshooting: Why the TV can't see the computer

If the devices do not detect each other, check:

🛠️ Network diagnostics: If problems persist, check the connection speed between your PC and TV using the command:

ping your_TV's_IP -t

In the Windows command line. If the ping exceeds 50 ms or there is packet loss, a problem with the router or Wi-Fi interference.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to stream a movie from a PC to a TV without Wi-Fi?

Yes, there are three alternatives:

1. HDMI cable: The most stable method, but requires a physical connection.
2. USB drive: Copy the movie to a flash drive and connect it to your TV. Suitable for files up to 32 GB (limit FAT32).
3. Ethernet: Connect your PC and TV with a cable through a router (if the TV has a port) RJ-45).

Why is there no sound on TV when broadcasting from a PC?

Reasons and solutions:

• Incompatible audio codec: PC transmits DTS or Dolby TrueHD, and TV only supports AAC/MP3. Use Plex for transcoding or convert the audio in advance to HandBrake.
• Miracast Error: In Windows Sound settings, select Stereo instead of 5.1.
• HDMI-ARC: If connected via HDMI, turn on HDMI Control in TV settings.

How to watch movies from torrents on TV via PC?

🚨 Warning: Streaming torrent files may violate copyright. However, it is technically possible:

1. Download the file to your PC via qBittorrent or Deluge.
2. Open it in VLC and broadcast on TV via UPnP.
3. Or add the downloads folder to Plex and watch through his app.

⚠️ Risks: Some internet providers block torrent traffic, which can lead to interruptions in the stream.

What is the maximum video quality that can be streamed over Wi-Fi?

Depends on the Wi-Fi standard and codecs:

• Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n): To 1080p with bitrate 10–15 Mbps (artifacts may occur).
• Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac): 4K HDR with bitrate 25–50 Mbps (5 GHz channel required).
• Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax): 4K@60fps or 8K (when using Chromecast Ultra or Nvidia Shield).

📌 Advice: For 4K use a wired connection or Powerline adapters (Internet transmission via electrical wiring).

Is it possible to control playback on TV from a phone?

Yes, if you use:

• Plex: Install the application on your smartphone and control the player on your TV.
• Yatse (for Kodi): Full-featured remote control with gesture support.
• Google Home: For devices with Chromecast.