Android TV · Network & Internet
Connect your TV to Wi-Fi or fix a dropped connection
Streaming quality depends entirely on a stable connection — most buffering and app-crash complaints on a smart TV trace back to Wi-Fi signal strength, not the app itself.
What you should know
- Found under Settings → Network & Internet.
- Signal strength is shown as a bar indicator next to the connected network name.
Why it matters
4K streaming needs a meaningfully faster, more stable connection than SD or HD content — a connection that felt fine for browsing can still buffer constantly at higher resolutions.
Best practices
- Place the router with a clear line of sight to the TV where possible, or use a mesh Wi-Fi point nearby.
- Use the 5GHz band for the TV if your router supports it — it's faster at close range with less interference.
Common problems and fixes
- Wi-Fi connects but streaming still buffers
- Run a speed test from the TV's browser or a connected phone on the same network to rule out an ISP-side issue.
- TV keeps forgetting the Wi-Fi password
- Forget the network and rejoin, double-checking there are no special characters your remote's on-screen keyboard is mistyping.
Tips and tricks
- An Ethernet adapter, where the TV supports one, eliminates Wi-Fi-related buffering entirely.
Frequently asked questions
Does a VPN on the TV slow down streaming?
It can, depending on the VPN server's distance and load — try a server closer to your actual location if streaming feels slower with it on.
Related settings
- System Software UpdateAndroid TV updates deliver security patches, app compatibility fixes, and interface improvements — usually found under Settings → System → About → System update.
- Bluetooth Remote & Accessory PairingMost Android TV remotes pair automatically on first power-on, but a lost pairing (or pairing a second accessory like headphones or a game controller) is done from Settings → Remotes & Accessories.