Having a Samsung QLED TV that won’t connect to Wi-Fi can be frustrating, preventing you from enjoying your favorite streaming services and smart features. This guide provides a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and fixing Wi-Fi problems on your Samsung QLED TV.
1: Initial Checks
Before diving into more complex solutions, start with these basic checks:
- Physical Obstructions and Distance: Ensure no obstacles block the signal between your TV and router, and that the distance is within a reasonable range (ideally under 15.2 meters). Obstacles or excessive distance can weaken the Wi-Fi signal.
- Cable Connections: Verify that all cables connected to your router are securely plugged in.
- Power Cycle: Unplug both the TV and the router from the power outlet. Wait for about a minute before plugging them back in. This can often resolve temporary glitches. After powering the TV back on, allow it about 30 seconds to automatically reconnect to the Wi-Fi network.
2: Using Network Status to Diagnose the Issue
Samsung Smart TVs have a built-in Network Status tool that can help pinpoint where the connection is failing.
- Go to Settings > General > Network > Network Status.
- This screen displays the connection status between the TV, the router, and the internet. Blue dots indicate a successful connection, while a red “X” indicates a problem.
- TV and Router Not Connected: If there’s no connection between the TV and the router, the problem could be with either device.
- Router Not Connected to the Internet: If the router isn’t connected to the internet, contact your internet service provider (ISP).
3: Network Refresh
Performing a network refresh can resolve connectivity issues by clearing old network settings.
- Navigate to Settings > General > Network.
- Select Reset Network and confirm by selecting YES.
- Restart your TV.
After the TV restarts, reconfigure your network settings.
4: Checking Wi-Fi Signal Strength
Low Wi-Fi signal strength can cause connection problems.
- Go to Settings > General > Network > Open Network Settings > Wireless.
- Check the number of Wi-Fi bars displayed.
- Full Bars: If you see full Wi-Fi bars, the issue is likely not related to signal strength.
- One or Two Bars: If the signal strength is low, try moving the router closer to the TV or consider using a Wi-Fi extender.
- Wired Connection: For a more stable connection, connect the TV directly to the router using an Ethernet cable.
5: Trying an Alternate Network
To determine if the issue is with your primary network or the TV, try connecting to another available network. If the TV connects successfully to the alternate network, the problem lies with your primary network connection.
6: IP Settings
Incorrect IP settings can sometimes cause connectivity issues. Check your TV’s IP settings:
- Go to Settings > Network > Network Settings > IP Settings.
7: Software Update
Outdated software can cause various issues, including network connectivity problems.
- Go to Settings > Support > Software Update > Update Now.
- If an update is available, download and install it.
8: Self-Diagnosis
Samsung TVs have a self-diagnosis feature that can identify potential problems.
- Go to Settings > Support > Self Diagnosis.
- Run the self-diagnosis to check for any issues.
9: Factory Reset
If all other steps fail, perform a factory reset. Keep in mind that this will reset all settings and require you to reinstall your apps.
- Go to Settings > General > Reset.
- Enter the PIN (the default is usually 0000 if you haven’t set one).
- Select Reset again to confirm. The TV will restart automatically.
10: Reconnecting to the Internet After a Reset
After resetting the network or performing a factory reset, you’ll need to reconnect to the internet.
- Go to Settings > Network > Open Network Settings.
- Choose between a wireless or wired connection.
- Wireless: Select your Wi-Fi network and enter the password.
- Wired: If you choose a wired connection, it should connect automatically. Ensure the network cable is securely connected to the back of the TV and the router.
- Once connected, select OK.
Contact Samsung Support
If you’ve tried all the above steps and your Samsung QLED TV still won’t connect to Wi-Fi, it may be time to contact Samsung Support for further assistance. There might be a more complex issue that requires professional attention.