“Unable to connect to a WiFI network.”
Did you suddenly get this error message on your LG TV?
Well, it can happen a lot of times, especially when you’re using a wireless connection.
But don’t worry, I’ve got several simple solutions for that!
So, once you’re ready…
Read on to know:
- 11 easy steps to update an LG TV firmware via USB.
- 13 effective ways to fix an LG TV that won’t connect to WiFi.
- 5 quick steps to reset an LG TV to fix WiFi connection errors.
- How to disable “Quick Start” and “SimpLink” features to fix glitches.
- And that’s only the beginning…
Why won’t my LG TV connect to WiFi?
Your LG TV won’t connect to WiFi due to a slow or unstable internet connection. Connection interference, glitches, software bugs, and outdated firmware can also cause the problem. Having incorrect time & date settings and enabled “Quick Start” or “SimpLink” functions may also be the reason.
LG TV not connecting to WiFi: 13 fixes
#1: Reconnect to the WiFi network
Note: If you’re using a wired connection, skip this section. And jump to fix #2.
If your LG TV is connected to a WiFi network,
But you can’t seem to load apps due to a network error…
Disconnect and reconnect your unit from the WiFi.
Doing this helps refresh the connection between your LG TV and WiFi network. Which resolves any WiFi connectivity errors.
To do that:
- Press “SETTINGS” on the TV remote. Look for a gear icon.
- Scroll down and select “Network” on the TV screen side menu.
- Click Network > WiFi connection.
- Tap your connected WiFi network.
- Press “Forget” or “Forget this network.”
- Back to the WiFi settings, select your WiFi network again.
- Enter your WiFi password.
- Then, click “Connect.”
#2: Connect to an appropriate WiFi network band
Are you using a dual-band WiFi router?
If so, then your LG TV might be connecting to a network band that it doesn’t support.
There are 2 types of network bands:
- 5 GHz.
- 2.4 GHz.
5 GHz is usually used for gaming and 4K streaming due to its high speed. However, it can only work within a smaller range. Plus, not all devices can connect to it.
On the other hand, 2.4 GHz is usually used for regular streaming and internet use. And although it’s comparably slower than 5 GHz, it has a wider range.
“So, what should I use?”
Connect to a 2.4 GHz network band if your TV:
- Only supports a 2.4 GHz band.
- Is far from the router – more than 30 ft (9 m).
Connect to a 5 GHz network band if your TV:
- Is near the router.
- Connects via Ethernet.
- Supports 5 GHz connectivity.
Review your product manual to know whether your LG TV supports a 5 GHz network band.
Learn more: Can you use 2.4GHz and 5GHz at the same time?
#3: Switch to using a wired connection
Note: Skip this section if you’re already using a wired connection. And proceed to fix #4.
If you’ve tried switching between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, but your TV won’t still properly connect to WiFi…
Then perhaps your room or house has poor signal reception. Meaning, it receives weak signals due to various obstacles. Which we’ll discuss more in fixes #4 & #5.
One way you can improve the WiFi connectivity of your TV is by using a wired connection.
It has several benefits, including:
- Faster WiFi speed.
- Uninterrupted connection.
With this, you can stream high-quality movies and games. Without worrying about losing your internet connection.
To use a wired connection…
Get an Ethernet cable. And connect it to your router and TV ports.
#4: Remove electromagnetic devices nearby
Another thing that can cause your TV not to connect to WiFi is connection interference.
Note: Connection interference happens when the signals of 2 electromagnetic devices clash.
As the name implies, electromagnetic devices are anything that uses electromagnetic waves.
And this can be a:
- Microphone.
- Other routers.
- Baby monitor.
- Microwave oven.
- Wireless speaker.
- Wireless handheld phone.
“How does connection interference actually happen?”
Suppose there are several wireless speakers near your TV and the router.
These speakers can interfere with the WiFi signals traveling from the router to your TV. Causing your unit not to connect to WiFi.
That being said, try removing the wireless devices nearby your TV. And see if it improves anything.
#5: Install a WiFi extender
If using a wired connection isn’t an option for you…
Then, install a WiFi extender in the same room where your LG TV is located.
Note: This device helps extend the range of your WiFi network. Helping reach out-of-range areas in your home.
With it, you can expect a more stable WiFI connection. Compared to just connecting your TV to the main router.
Reading tip: Does a Wi-Fi Repeater Slow Down Internet? The Harsh Truth
#6: Disable the “Quick Start” feature
Note: This setting is only available on select LG TV models.
The Quick Start function sets your TV on standby mode when switched off. So that it’ll quickly turn on as soon as you press the POWER button.
The function itself doesn’t disconnect your TV from the WiFi.
But due to some bugs, it somehow interferes with your device’s connectivity.
So, try to disable the Quick Start feature on your TV. And see if it resolves the problem.
To do that:
- On the remote, press the SETTINGS button.
- Select “All Settings” on the screen.
- Click General > Quick Start.
- Then, toggle the Quick Start button OFF.
After that, restart the TV by unplugging its power cord from the outlet.
#7: Disable the “SimpLink” function
If that didn’t work…
Then, this time try to disable the “SimpLink” function on your TV.
Note: This function allows you to control the connected HDMI devices on your TV using the LG TV remote.
The remote communicates with the HDMI devices using IR signals. Which is part of the electromagnetic spectrum.
And that can interfere with your TV WiFi connection.
So, consider turning off the SimpLInk function as well.
Here’s how to do it:
- Press the gear icon on the remote to enter settings.
- Click “All Settings” from the side menu.
- Tap General > SimpLink (HDMI-CEC).
- Then, toggle off its button.
Again, restart your TV by unplugging its power cord for the change to take effect.
#8: Change the location setting
Suppose your LG TV can’t find your WiFi network,
Or it doesn’t display any available networks at all…
Change the location on your TV setting.
The reason:
Doing this can help refresh the system of your unit. Which includes its ability to detect and connect with WiFi networks.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to properly do it:
Step 1: Go to the TV’s location settings.
Press the SETTINGS button on the remote. Then, select All Settings > General > Location.
Step 2: On the location setting, tap “LG Services Country.”
Step 3: Select any country displayed on the screen.
Step 4: When a restart notice pops up, click “OK” to confirm the action.
Step 5: Wait for your TV to turn off and on once.
Step 6: Repeat steps 1 to 2.
Step 7: This time, select your correct location.
Step 8. Click “OK” to confirm it again.
Step 9: Let your unit turn off and on once, for the last time.
#9: Adjust the time & date manually
You may also try adjusting the time & date setting on your TV.
The reason:
When the time & date on your TV isn’t correct, it can mess up the WiFi connectivity of your unit.
So, correct it manually.
To do that:
- Press the gear button on the remote.
- Click All Settings > General > Time & Date.
- Then, adjust the time and date manually.
“Can’t I just set the time & date automatically?”
You can.
But due to occasional glitches or bugs, the auto option can sometimes fail. Causing the time & date not to be synced.
So to ensure correct setting at all times, set the time & date manually.
#10: Power cycle the TV
Okay, so tweaking some settings on your TV didn’t help.
But don’t worry!
You can also resolve any connectivity errors by power cycling your unit.
Note: A power cycle resolves minor errors by completely turning off the device’s system.
Here’s how you can do it:
- Ensure that the TV is powered ON. The screen should be displaying anything.
- Remove the TV power cord from the outlet.
- Keep it unplugged for at least 30 seconds.
- Plug the power cord back into the outlet.
- Then, switch ON the TV.
Or, if you can’t access its power cord:
- Switch ON the TV.
- Toggle off its circuit breaker.
- Wait for at least 30 seconds.
- Toggle ON the circuit breaker.
- Then, switch ON the unit.
#11: Power cycle the WiFi router
Still not working?
Well then, power cycle your WiFi router as well.
Note: Doing this temporarily disconnects all your devices from the WiFi.
This gives better results compared to power cycling your TV. Since it refreshes the router system and the WiFi network itself.
Follow these steps:
Step 1: Ensure that the router is powered ON.
Its indicator lights should be glowing or blinking.
Step 2: Unplug its power cord from the socket.
Step 3: Let it sit for at least 30 seconds.
Step 4: Replug its power cord to the socket.
Step 5: Switch ON the router.
Press the POWER button on the device. Which is located on its top or backside, depending on your unit.
Once done, go to your TV network settings. And connect to your WiFi network.
#12: Update the TV firmware via USB
There are also some chances that your TV isn’t connecting to WiFi due to outdated firmware.
The reason:
A firmware update improves the device by upgrading its system and functions.
And developers do that by changing certain programs or codes in the current firmware.
Suppose they changed a program that directly affects the TV’s connectivity to WiFi. Your device may disconnect or fail to detect any networks.
So, always make sure to update your TV firmware.
Note: The easiest way to update its firmware is via WiFi. But since you can’t connect to it, your only option is to update it via USB.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to update an LG TV via USB:
Step 1: Visit the LG support page.
Step 2: Enter your TV model number on the search bar.
Step 3: Tap your model number from the results.
Step 4: Download the zip file of the latest firmware update.
Step 5: Extract the file.
Step 6: Create a file folder on your USB flash drive. Rename it “LG_DTV.”
Make sure to rename it exactly like that. Otherwise, your TV won’t recognize the update file.
Step 7: Copy-paste the update file to that folder.
Step 8: Ensure that your TV is powered ON.
Step 9: Plug the USB into your TV USB port.
Step 10: Wait for the firmware update page to display on the TV screen.
Step 11: Click “Start” to install the update.
Note: The update is done once the screen returns to the TV homepage.
You can also watch this video for visual instructions:
#13: Factory reset the TV
“I’ve already tried everything from above. But my TV won’t still connect to WiFi!”
If that’s the case, then it’s time to factory reset your unit.
Warning: A factory reset deletes everything from your TV. Including data, customization, and connectivity to other devices.
Meaning: You’d have to set up everything again after.
So, do this only as your last resort.
To factory reset your LG TV:
- Press the SETTINGS button on the remote.
- Scroll down and select “All Settings.”
- Go to “General.”
- Click “Reset to initial settings.”
- Once the confirmation message pops up, tap “OK” to confirm.
Right after tapping “OK,” your TV will turn off and on once to restart its system.
Just wait for it to switch ON again.
Then, follow the on-screen instructions to set up your LG TV. This includes connecting your TV to a WiFi network.
If the problem persists, contact LG support for assistance.
Check out: How To Connect a Smart TV to WiFi Hotspots? 11 Simple Steps