Modern technologies make it possible to transform an ordinary computer into a powerful multimedia center using a large TV screen. Wireless connection between PC and TV has become the standard, eliminating the need for users to run long HDMI cables across the room. This is especially important for technology owners. LG, whose Smart TVs are equipped with advanced Wi-Fi modules and support multiple data transfer protocols.
The process of synchronizing devices depends on your computer's operating system and your TV's software version. You don't need to be a network expert to ensure a stable picture. Understanding the basic principles is sufficient. local network and have access to the settings menu of both gadgets.
In this article, we'll cover all available methods in detail, from built-in Windows features to third-party apps. You'll learn how to stream your desktop, watch movies from your hard drive, or even play games on the big screen without lag. The key is to ensure a stable router signal and properly configure security settings.
Preparation of equipment and network infrastructure
The first step to a successful connection is to check the hardware. Your computer must be equipped with a Wi-Fi adapter that supports at least the following standards: 802.11nIf you are using a desktop PC without a built-in module, you will need an external USB receiver. TV LG Smart TV must also have an activated wireless module.
A critical requirement is that both devices are on the same subnet. This means that both the computer and the TV must be connected to the same routerIf you have a dual-band router, make sure both devices are operating on the same frequency (either 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz), although modern routers usually route traffic between bands correctly.
- 📶 Check the Wi-Fi signal strength on your TV in the section
Settings → Network. - 💻 Make sure network discovery is enabled on your PC in Control Panel.
- 🔄 Update your TV firmware to the latest version through the support menu.
- 🔒 Make sure that Client Isolation is not enabled on your router.
⚠️ Note: If your router is sharing a guest network, devices on it may be isolated from each other. Use your main home network for data transfer.
Connection stability directly depends on the channel load. If someone is downloading large files or a video conference is in progress while broadcasting, image quality may degrade. For viewing 4K video, it is recommended to use the [bandwidth] range. 5 GHz, which provides higher throughput.
Mirror your Windows screen using Miracast
The easiest way to display an image from a computer to an LG TV is to use technology MiracastThis feature is built into Windows 8.1, 10, and 11 operating systems and is also supported by most modern Smart TVs. It allows you to duplicate your desktop or extend it onto a second display without installing additional software.
To get started, make sure the TV is turned on and in standby mode. Press the button on the remote control. Input or select the function from the application menu Screen Share (or LG AirPlay (in new models). After this, the TV will switch to the search mode for available devices.
On your computer, press the key combination Win + KThe "Connection" panel will appear on the right, where the system will search for available displays. Your LG TV should appear in the list. Click it, and after a few seconds, the monitor's image will appear on the big screen.
☑️ Check before connecting Miracast
In some cases, you may be asked to confirm the connection on the TV screen. Use the remote control to grant access to the computer. Once paired, you can switch display modes through the menu. Project, choosing between duplication or extended desktop.
⚠️ Note: When using Miracast, your mouse cursor may experience a slight delay. This isn't a problem for office work, but it can be noticeable in fast-paced shooters.
Using DLNA for multimedia
If your goal is not to duplicate your desktop, but to view movies, photos, or listen to music stored on your PC's hard drive, the best technology to use is DLNAIt allows the TV to view the computer's media library as a network folder and play content directly, without burdening the PC's processor with video stream encoding.
In Windows 10 and 11, media sharing is often enabled by default, but requires manual folder configuration. Open "Media Streaming Settings" in Control Panel and add your LG TV to the list of allowed devices. After that, files in the default folders (Videos, Music, Pictures) will be available to your TV.
On your LG TV, go to the Home menu or launch the app Photos and VideosSelect your computer from the source list. You'll see the folder structure and be able to play files of any supported format. Playback quality will depend on the video bitrate and Wi-Fi speed.
| Parameter | Miracast | DLNA | Third-party software |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose of use | Screen mirroring | Viewing files | Extended functionality |
| Latency | Medium/High | Absent | Depends on the software |
| PC load | High (coding) | Low | Average |
| Interface | Full desktop | TV menu | Depends on the application |
It's worth noting that DLNA doesn't allow you to control your computer with a remote control. You only select a file to play. If you need to pause or rewind a video, it's more convenient to do so through the TV menu, as buffering can create a slight lag between the command and the response.
Setting up Apple AirPlay for macOS and iOS
Apple device owners can use built-in support AirPlay 2, which LG has been implementing in its TVs since 2018. This allows you to mirror your MacBook or iPhone/iPad screen without the need for additional Apple TV boxes. Image quality remains high, and latency is minimal.
To connect, make sure your Mac and LG TV are on the same Wi-Fi network. You'll need to activate the AirPlay receiver on your TV. Go to Settings → Connection → AirPlay and toggle the slider to "On." You can also configure a code requirement when connecting new devices for security purposes.
On a Mac, click the "Screen Mirroring" icon in the menu bar (the two rectangles) and select your LG TV from the list. If you're using Safari, the AirPlay button can be found directly in the video player, allowing you to mirror a movie to your TV while continuing to work in other browser tabs.
AirPlay functionality on LG devices also allows you to stream audio to an external speaker system if it's connected to the TV, or use the TV as a wireless speaker for iTunes music. This creates a unified multimedia ecosystem throughout the home.
Third-party applications and software solutions
Built-in tools don't always provide ideal results, especially on older TV models or when performing specific tasks. In such cases, third-party programs come to the rescue. One of the most popular solutions is LetsView or AirServer, which are installed both on a PC and (in some cases) launched through the WebOS browser.
Another powerful tool is the media player. VLCIf you have a video file on your computer, you can open it in VLC, select "Playback" → "Renderer," and select your LG TV. The player will automatically encode the stream into a format the TV can understand and send it over the network. This is often more stable than the built-in Windows DLNA server.
For gamers who want to run a game on a powerful PC and display the image on a TV, there is a technology Steam LinkWhile it requires installing an app on your TV (if available in the LG Content Store) or using a separate device, it provides the best performance when streaming games over a local network.
Problems with codecs
If your TV doesn't recognize a video format (such as HEVC or AVI), use a streaming application on your PC that will convert the stream on the fly to a compatible format, such as H.264.
Using specialized software gives you more control over bitrate and buffering. If standard methods result in choppy images, try reducing the streaming quality in the intermediary app settings. This will improve playback smoothness.
Troubleshooting and speed optimization
Even with proper setup, problems may still occur: video stuttering, audio and video out of sync, or complete connection failure. Most often, this is due to a congested Wi-Fi channel or outdated drivers. Check that the latest drivers for your Wi-Fi adapter are installed on your PC.
If your TV isn't detecting your computer, try temporarily disabling your antivirus or Windows Firewall. They may block incoming DLNA or Miracast connections, considering them potentially dangerous. Also, make sure your Windows network type is set to "Private" and not "Public."
- 🔌 Restart your router, PC, and TV—this solves 80% of network problems.
- 📡 Bring the devices closer to each other or remove obstacles between them.
- ⚙️ Reset the network settings on your TV and reconnect.
- 🕒 Check if the system time on your PC and TV matches (important for security certificates).
⚠️ Note: Menu interfaces and function names may vary depending on the webOS version (3.0, 4.0, 5.0, 6.0, and later). If you can't find the item you need, use the search in your TV settings.
To diagnose your speed, you can run an internet speed test directly on your TV (in the network settings) and compare it with the results on your PC. If the speed on your TV is significantly lower, it's possible that your TV's Wi-Fi module only operates in the 2.4 GHz band, which is severely limited in bandwidth for transmitting high-definition video.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why doesn't my LG TV see my computer in the list of devices?
Most often, the problem is that the devices are on different networks (for example, one is connected to a guest Wi-Fi network and the other to the main network). Also, check that "File and Printer Sharing" is enabled in Windows settings and that your antivirus isn't blocking the connection.
Is it possible to play games on TV via Wi-Fi without lag?
For fast-paced games, input lag over a wireless connection can be noticeable (50 ms or more). For a comfortable gaming experience, it's best to use an HDMI cable or Steam Link technology with a very powerful Wi-Fi 6 router and a LAN cable connection to your PC.
How can I improve image quality if the video is lagging?
Try lowering the resolution of the broadcast screen in Windows settings (Settings → System → Display) or switch to the 5 GHz band. Also, close background programs on your PC that are consuming bandwidth.
Do all LG TVs support Wi-Fi connectivity?
Almost all modern Smart TV models (starting around 2012-2013) have a built-in Wi-Fi module. However, older models may not support modern Miracast or AirPlay 2 protocols, requiring the use of external adapters.