To browse internet on Vizio Smart TV, you need to know that Vizio TVs do not have a built-in web browser. Because the TV is designed for streaming apps and casting, you must use a workaround like casting from another device or connecting an external streaming device.
Can you browse the internet on a Vizio smart TV?
Vizio Smart TVs, including those running SmartCast and Vizio OS, do not have a built-in web browser. There is no address bar for visiting arbitrary websites, and you cannot download browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari from the Vizio app catalog. The home-screen search function only finds shows, movies, channels, and apps within the TV experience, it is not an internet search engine. To browse the internet on a Vizio smart TV, you must use workarounds such as screen mirroring, casting from a mobile device or computer, or connecting an external streaming device. While you cannot install a browser directly, you can access internet explorer on Vizio smart TV by mirroring a Windows laptop’s screen, and you can connect laptop to Vizio smart TV wirelessly to avoid dealing with HDMI cables.
Connect your Vizio smart TV to the internet
Before any workaround will work, your TV must be connected to the internet. Follow these steps to connect your Vizio smart TV to Wi-Fi or a wired network.
- Check your network connection. Ensure you have a stable internet connection available. For a wired connection, connect an Ethernet cable from your router to the TV. For a wireless connection, make sure the TV is within range of your Wi-Fi network.
- Access the Settings menu. Press the Menu button on your Vizio TV remote, navigate to the Network option, and select it.
- Choose your connection type. In the Network menu, select either Wired or Wireless based on your network configuration.
- Follow the on-screen prompts. Enter the necessary network details, such as the Wi-Fi password or IP settings, using the correct information.
- Test your connection. After entering the details, the TV will attempt to connect. Once connected, you can test by accessing a web page or streaming content.
Cast a browser from your computer or phone
Casting a browser tab from your computer or mirroring your phone screen is the primary workaround for browsing the web on your Vizio TV. Vizio SmartCast and Vizio OS support Google Cast and Apple AirPlay, treating the TV as a receiver for content.
Cast from Google Chrome on a computer
- Connect your computer and Vizio TV to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Open Google Chrome on your computer.
- Click the three dots menu, select Cast, and choose your Vizio TV from the list of available devices.
- Your browser tab will appear on the TV screen, allowing you to navigate any website using your computer.
Mirror from an Android or iOS device
- Ensure your mobile device and Vizio TV are on the same Wi-Fi network.
- On Android, open the settings and look for the Cast or screen mirroring option. On iOS, use AirPlay from the Control Center or within an app.
- Select your Vizio TV from the list of available devices to establish a connection.
- Open any browser or app on your mobile device, and its screen will appear on the TV. You can control playback and navigation from your device.
Use an external streaming device to browse the web
If casting is not ideal, the secondary workaround is to connect an external streaming device that has its own web browser apps. Devices like Roku, Apple TV, or Amazon Fire Stick offer browsers you can install and use directly on the TV. Connect the device to your Vizio TV via an HDMI port, install a browser app from the device's app store, and browse the internet using the device's remote. This approach bypasses the Vizio platform's limitations entirely.
Troubleshooting internet connection issues
If you cannot cast or use an external device, the problem is often the TV's internet connection. Try these common fixes.
- Check your network connection. Ensure the TV is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your other devices. If the signal is weak, move the TV closer to the router or use a wired connection.
- Restart your devices. Power off and unplug both your Vizio smart TV and your router. Wait a minute, then plug them back in and power them on.
- Update firmware and apps. Make sure your TV's firmware is up to date. Check for available updates in the TV's settings menu. If you need to update your Vizio smart TV, go to the settings menu and select the system update option to ensure compatibility with casting and external devices.
- Reset network settings. Go to the Settings menu, find the Network option, and select Reset Network Settings. This clears saved configurations and allows a fresh connection setup.
- Contact your internet service provider. If the issue persists, your ISP can check your connection stability and offer specific advice.
