How to Stream from Your Computer to a Sony Bravia TV via Wi-Fi: A Complete Guide

Wirelessly cast your computer screen to your TV Sony Bravia Wi-Fi opens up new possibilities for watching movies, presentations, or playing games without the hassle of wires. However, many users encounter problems: the TV doesn't detect the PC, the picture lags, or the sound disappears. In this article, we'll look into these issues. all current connection methods — from standard protocols DLNA And Miracast to specialized applications like Steam Link or ApowerMirror.

It is important to understand that the methods differ in stability, latency, and supported features. For example, Miracast suitable for real-time desktop duplication, and DLNA Optimal for viewing media files without interactivity. We'll describe each option in detail, list the system requirements, and provide tips for troubleshooting common errors. If your Bravia Released before 2018, some features may be missing—we'll talk about that too.

Before you begin, check two key conditions: 1) The computer and TV are connected to one Wi-Fi network (or the router supports WDS/Mesh for multiple networks). 2) On Sony Bravia The latest firmware version is installed (valid for 2019 models and newer).

If any of the conditions are not met, wireless broadcasting will not work.

1. Connect via DLNA: view photos, videos, and music

Protocol DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) - the easiest way to broadcast media files (movies, photos, music) from your computer to Sony BraviaIt's not suitable for mirroring your desktop or gaming, but it's ideal for home theater. Its main advantage is minimal network load and zero latency.

To activate DLNA on TV:

1. On the remote control Bravia press the button HOME.
2. Go to Settings → Network Settings → Home Network Settings.
3. Enable the option DLNA (may be called Media server or Screen Mirroring (depending on the model).
4. Return to the main menu and select the application Photo/Video/Music (or Media Player).

The TV should appear in the list of available devices.

On a computer with Windows 10/11:

1. Open Settings → System → Device Transfer.
2. Enable the option Media streaming.
3. Choose yours Sony Bravia from the list of allowed devices.
4. Now when opening a file through Conductor or application Movies and TV an option will appear Transfer to device.

For macOS third-party software will be required, for example Plex Media Server or Kodi, since Apple's standard tools don't support DLNA directly. After installing the server, add folders with media files to the library and select Bravia as an output device.

TV and PC on the same network|DLNA enabled on TV|Streaming enabled on Windows|Files in supported formats (MKV, MP4, JPG)

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⚠️ Attention: Televisions Sony Bravia 2017 and older may not support formats HEVC (H.265) or FLAC through DLNAIn this case, use file conversion or alternative methods.

2. Screen Mirroring (Miracast): Real-time screen mirroring

Technology Miracast allows completely duplicate the computer screen to your TV with minimal latency. This is ideal for presentations, web browsing, or even simple gaming. However, Miracast Sensitive to the quality of the Wi-Fi network: if the signal is weak, the image may jerk.

To turn on Miracast on Sony Bravia:

1. Press on the remote control HOME → Settings → Network settings.
2. Select Screen Mirroring (or Wireless projection).
3. Activate the mode On or Allow.
4. Remember the TV name - you will need it to connect from a PC.

On a computer with Windows 10/11:

1. Click Win + K (or open Settings → System → Display → Connect to a wireless display).
2. From the list of available devices, select yours Sony Bravia.
3. Confirm the connection on your TV (you may be asked to enter a PIN code).

For macOS third-party software will be required, for example AirParrot or Reflector, since Apple uses its own protocol AirPlay, incompatible with Miracast.

If the connection fails:

• 🔄 Reboot your router — sometimes resetting network settings helps.
• 📶 Check your Wi-Fi channel: Miracast Works poorly on crowded channels (such as 6 or 11 in the 2.4 GHz band). Switch to 5 GHz or a less crowded channel.
• 🖥️ Update your video card drivers: For Miracast The current version of Intel/NVIDIA/AMD drivers is critical.
• 🔒 Disable VPN or firewall - They can block network communication.

3. Sony Video & TV SideView app: The official solution

Company Sony developed my own application Video & TV SideView, which allows you to not only control your TV from your phone but also stream media files from your computer. The app supports most models. Bravia since 2014, but requires account registration for full functionality Sony Entertainment Network.

Setup instructions:

1. Download and install Video & TV SideView to your computer from the official website Sony.
2. Launch the app and log in to your account (or create a new one).
3. Open on your TV Settings → Network Settings → SideView Settings and activate the option Allow connection.
4. In the PC app, select your Bravia from the list of devices.
5. Drag the media file into the program window or select it from the menu Add file.

Advantages SideView:

• 🎬 Playlists and media library sorting support.
• 🔍 Built-in content search on your TV.
• 📱 Possibility of control from a phone (the application is available for Android And iOS).
• 🔄 Automatically sync playback between devices.

Flaws:

• ❌ No screen mirroring support (media files only).
• ❌ Limited list of supported formats (for example, no AVI or MTS).
• ❌ Requires mandatory account registration.

⚠️ Attention: In some regions (for example, in Russia) services Sony Entertainment Network may be limited. If the app doesn't launch, check your location settings or use a VPN with servers in Europe/USA.

4. Steam Link: Game and Desktop Streaming for Gamers

If you want to play PC games on the big screen without wires, Steam Link — one of the best solutions. The app supports streaming not only games from the library Steam, but also the entire desktop with minimal latency. To work, you need:

• Computer with installed Steam.
• TV Sony Bravia with support Google Play Store (2019 models and newer) or set-top box Android TV.
• Stable Wi-Fi connection (5 GHz recommended).

Step-by-step setup:

1. Install the application Steam Link to TV via Google Play Store.
2. On your computer, open Steam, go to Settings → Login and turn on the option Allow broadcasting from this computer.
3. Launch Steam Link on Bravia and select your PC from the list.
4. Confirm the PIN code that appears on the TV screen.
5. Select mode: Games (Steam library only) or Desktop (full duplication).

For optimal performance:

• 🎮 In the settings Steam Link select Optimize for speed (will reduce latency, but will reduce image quality).
• 🖥️ On your PC, disable background programs that consume resources (for example, Discord, Chrome with multiple tabs).
• 🔌 Connect your computer to the router via Ethernet cable - this will reduce ping.
• 🔄 If the game is lagging, reduce the broadcast resolution in the settings Steam Link (for example, with 4K to 1080p).

How to play non-Steam games via Steam Link?

Add the game's executable file to your Steam library as a "non-Steam game":

1. Open Steam and click Games → Add a non-Steam game.
2. Select .exe file of the desired game.
3. Once added, the game will appear in the library and will be available for broadcast on TV.

5. Alternative applications: ApowerMirror, TeamViewer, Chrome Remote Desktop

If standard methods aren't suitable, third-party programs can be used. They offer additional features, such as screen recording or TV control from a PC. Let's look at three popular options:

1. ApowerMirror — a universal solution for screen mirroring with support Miracast and its own protocol:

• 🖥️ Works on Windows and macOS.
• 🎮 Supports game streaming with a latency of ~30-50 ms.
• 📱 You can control the TV from your computer (mouse/keyboard).
• ❌ The free version is limited to 3 minutes per session.

Instructions: Install ApowerMirror on PC and TV (via Google Play), connect to one network and select the TV from the list of devices.

2. TeamViewer — a well-known remote access software that also supports screen sharing:

• 🌍 Works via the Internet (you don’t have to be on the same network).
• 🔒 High level of encryption (suitable for corporate use).
• ⚠️ Latency ~100-200 ms (not suitable for dynamic games).
• 💻 Requires installation on both devices.

Instructions: Install TeamViewer QuickSupport on Bravia (if the model is on Android TV) and connect from the PC via the device ID.

3. Chrome Remote Desktop — Google's free screen mirroring solution:

• 🆓 Completely free with no restrictions.
• 🔍 Supports audio transmission.
• 🖱️ You can control your TV from your PC (if the TV is equipped with Chrome).
• ❌ Requires a browser Chrome on both devices.

Instructions: Install the extension Chrome Remote Desktop in the browser on your PC and TV, generate an access code and connect.

6. Troubleshooting: Why the broadcast isn't working

Even with proper setup, the connection may not work due to hardware or software limitations. Let's look at common errors and how to fix them:

Problem 1: The TV does not see the computer in the list of devices. Possible causes and solutions:

• 🔌 Different Wi-Fi networks: Make sure your PC and TV are connected one router. If used guest network, switch to the main one.
• 🔄 Disabled Screen Mirroring: On some models Bravia This option is hidden in Settings → External Inputs → Screen Mirroring.
• 🖥️ Outdated drivers: Update your Wi-Fi adapter and video card drivers on your PC via device Manager.
• 🛡️ Firewall is blocking the connection: Temporarily disable Windows Defender or add an exception for broadcast applications.

Problem 2: The image slows down or the sound disappears. How to fix:

• 📶 Weak Wi-Fi signal: Move the router closer to the TV or use Mesh system to enhance the signal.
• 🎮 High load on PC: Close background programs, especially torrent clients or cloud synchronizers.
• 🔊 Invalid audio output: In Windows, open Control Panel → Sound and select Wireless display as the default device.
• 🔧 Incompatible codec: For DLNA convert files to MP4 (H.264) or MKV.

Problem 3: Connection drops after a few minutes. Solutions:

• ⚡ Energy saving: On your laptop, disable sleep mode for the Wi-Fi adapter in Device Manager → Adapter Properties → Power Management.
• 🔄 IP issues: Assign static IP addresses for PC and TV in the router settings (DHCP reservation).
• 📡 Interference from other devices: In your router settings, change the Wi-Fi channel to a less busy one (use apps like Wi-Fi Analyzer for analysis).

⚠️ Attention: On TVs Sony Bravia 2016-2017 models may not be supported. Miracast in modern versions of Windows 11. In this case, use Steam Link or ApowerMirror.

7. Optimize your Wi-Fi network for stable streaming

The quality of the broadcast directly depends on Wi-Fi network speed and stabilityIf the image slows down or the sound disappears, try the following router settings:

1. Switch to the 5 GHz band:

• 📶 The 5 GHz band is less crowded and provides greater throughput.
• ⚠️ Please note that the 5 GHz coverage range is smaller than that of 2.4 GHz - the router must be located close to the TV.
• 🔧 In the router settings (usually 192.168.1.1) find the section Wi-Fi and activate the 5 GHz network.

2. Configure QoS (Quality of Service):

• 🎯 QoS allows you to prioritize traffic for video streaming.
• 🔧 In the router control panel, find QoS or Traffic priority.
• 📊 Add the MAC addresses of your computer and TV to the list of priority devices.

3. Update your router firmware:

• 🔄 Outdated firmware may cause problems with Miracast or DLNA.
• 📥 Download the latest firmware version from the router manufacturer's website.
• ⚠️ Do not interrupt the update process, as this may damage your router.

4. Use a repeater or mesh system:

• 📶 If the signal is weak, install Wi-Fi repeater (For example, TP-Link RE605X).
• 🏠 Ideal for a large house Mesh system (For example, Google Nest Wi-Fi or ASUS ZenWiFi).
• 🔌 Connect your TV or PC to the router via Powerline adapter (uses electrical wiring to transmit data).

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Streaming to Sony Bravia

My 2015 Sony Bravia TV doesn't support screen mirroring. What should I do?

For older models Bravia (until 2016) Miracast often absent. Alternatives:

• Use Google Chromecast (connects to HDMI port and supports streaming from PC via Google Chrome).
• Install Android TV Box (For example, Xiaomi Mi Box) and connect it to the TV.
• Use DLNA for viewing media files (but not for screen mirroring).

If you need a full desktop broadcast, connect your PC to your TV via HDMI cable or use an adapter Wireless HDMI (For example, Nyrius ARIES Prime).

How to mirror your MacBook screen to Sony Bravia?

On macOS no built-in support Miracast, but there are alternatives:

1. AirPlay: If you have Sony Bravia 2020 or newer Apple TV (built-in or connected), use AirPlay through Control Center → Screen Mirroring.
2. ApowerMirror: Install the app on your Mac and TV, connect to the same network and select your TV from the list.
3. Chrome Remote Desktop: Free solution for screen mirroring via browser.

For models Bravia without Apple TV the only reliable way is third-party applications or HDMI adapter (For example, USB-C to HDMI).

Is it possible to stream PC games to Sony Bravia without lag?

Minimal latency (~10-30 ms) is achieved in the following ways:

• Steam Link: Optimized for gaming, supports controllers.
• Parsec: Cloud service for streaming games with a latency of ~15 ms (requires a good internet connection).
• HDMI cable: A wired connection provides zero latency but limits mobility.

For Miracast or ApowerMirror the delay will be ~50-100 ms, which is noticeable in dynamic games (shooters, fighting games).

Critical Information: For competitive games (CS2, Valorant, Fortnite), wireless streaming is not recommended - even with a 30ms latency, it results in a noticeable lag behind server events.

Why do some files not play when streaming via DLNA?

Sony Bravia supports a limited list of formats through DLNATypical problems:

• MKV with H.265 codec (HEVC) — not supported on models before 2018.
• FLAC or ALAC - Some TVs only play MP3 or AAC.
• AVI or WMV — require conversion to MP4.

Solutions:

• Use HandBrake or FFmpeg to convert files into supported formats.
• Install the app on TV Kodi or VLC - they support more codecs.