To use Wi-Fi on Samsung smart TV, press the Home button on your remote, then navigate to Settings and select Network. From there, choose Wireless and pick your network name from the list to complete the connection, this is the fastest verified path for connecting a smart TV to Wi-Fi.
How to use Wi-Fi on Samsung smart TV: step-by-step connection
Press the Home button on your Samsung remote to open the smart hub. Navigate to Settings (the gear icon), then select Network (on some models, the path is All Settings > Connection > Network). Choose Wireless as the network type, and the TV will scan for available networks.
From the list, select your Wi-Fi network name (SSID). If prompted, enter your Wi-Fi password using the on-screen keyboard, then select OK to confirm the successful connection. Your TV will display a confirmation message once connected.
Alternatively, if your router has a WPS or PBC button, you can select "Use WPS" on the TV and push the button on your router within two minutes for an automatic connection, no password entry needed.
What you need before you start
Before attempting to connect, have your wireless network name (SSID) and password readily available. You'll also need a Samsung Account to access network-based smart services, including streaming apps and other smart features, without it, you won't be able to use most internet-connected functions after connecting.
If you're wondering how to connect your Samsung smart TV to the internet for the first time, these two prerequisites are non-negotiable. Having them ready will make the entire process take under two minutes.
Why your Wi-Fi network is not showing up (2.4 GHz vs. 5 GHz)
Older Samsung Smart TVs, such as 2018 models (e.g., NU7100, NU710D, NU7300, NU730D), only support 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks and will not detect 5 GHz networks. If your network doesn't appear in the list, your router is likely broadcasting only on the 5 GHz band.
To fix this, log into your router's settings and ensure it's configured to broadcast the 2.4 GHz band. Many routers allow you to enable both bands simultaneously; if yours doesn't, temporarily disable 5 GHz, connect your TV, then re-enable it.
How to connect to a hidden Wi-Fi network
If your network is hidden (not broadcasting its SSID), scroll to the bottom of the available networks list and select "Add Network". Manually enter the network name (SSID) using the on-screen keyboard, then select the correct Security Type (e.g., WPA2-PSK) from the dropdown menu.
Enter the password for your hidden network, then select Connect. The TV will attempt to join the network and confirm once successful. This method works for both visible and hidden networks, so you can use it anytime your SSID isn't listed.
Troubleshooting: what to do when your Samsung TV won't connect to Wi-Fi
The most effective first step is to unplug both your TV and Wi-Fi router from power for at least 30 seconds, then plug them back in. This power-cycle clears temporary glitches on both devices and resolves most connection failures.
If the problem persists, check your connection status by going to Settings > Network > Network Status. If it shows "Not Connected," reset your network settings by selecting Reset Network (this erases all saved Wi-Fi networks, so you'll need to re-enter your password afterward). Then re-enter your Wi-Fi password carefully, mistyping is a common cause of failed connections.
For persistent issues, verify that your router is broadcasting the 2.4 GHz band (as older TVs require it) and that you're entering the correct password.
How to improve your Wi-Fi signal and use an extender
Position your router in a central location in your home, away from walls and obstructions. Keep it away from other wireless devices and sources of electromagnetic interference, such as microwaves, cordless phones, and baby monitors. If your router has adjustable antennas, try angling them differently to find the best reception.
If your TV is in a weak-signal area, use a Wi-Fi extender. Pair the extender with your router (usually via WPS button or the extender's setup app), then connect your TV to the extender's network name from the Wi-Fi list. A high-quality extender eliminates dead zones and provides a stable connection for streaming. For the most reliable performance, consider a mesh Wi-Fi system or a wired Ethernet connection directly to your router.
Connecting your Samsung TV to a mobile hotspot
If no Wi-Fi network is available, enable the mobile hotspot feature on your smartphone (in your phone's settings). On your TV, press Home, go to Settings > Network, select Wireless, and choose your phone's hotspot name from the list. Enter the hotspot password when prompted, then select Connect.
This works as a temporary internet source, but be aware of data usage, streaming video can consume several gigabytes per hour, so monitor your plan to avoid overage charges. A mobile hotspot is best for occasional use or when your home internet is down, not as a permanent replacement for a home Wi-Fi network.
If you're trying to browse the internet on your Samsung smart TV, the built-in web browser (if available on your model) will work after connecting via any of these methods. For login-required Wi-Fi networks (like hotels or cafes), you may need to open the TV's browser after connecting to complete the captive portal login, this is the same process as connecting a smart TV to Wi-Fi that requires login.
To see the Wi-Fi password on your smart TV for networks you've already connected to, go to Settings > Network > Wi-Fi, select your network, and choose "View Password" (available on newer models). This lets you retrieve the password without digging through router settings.
