As more and more content becomes available online, the desire to access it on a larger screen is growing. Luckily, there are several ways to connect a non-smart TV to the internet, allowing you to stream your favourite shows and movies, browse the web, and more.
Option 1: Use a Smart TV Adapter
A smart TV adapter is one of the easiest ways to connect a non-smart TV to the internet. These devices plug into your TV’s HDMI port and allow you to connect to the internet via a wired or wireless connection. Some popular options include the Amazon Fire Stick and Google Chromecast.
To use a smart TV adapter, plug it into your TV and follow the on-screen instructions to set it up. Once connected, you can use your TV’s remote to access various streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime.
Option 2: Use a Gaming Console
Another option for connecting your non-smart TV to the internet is a gaming console, such as a PlayStation or Xbox. These devices not only allow you to play games but also provide access to a variety of streaming services and apps.
To use a gaming console to connect your TV to the internet, connect it to your TV using an HDMI cable and follow the on-screen instructions to set it up. Once connected, you can use the console’s menu to access various streaming services and apps.
Option 3: Use a Blu-ray Player or Cable Box
Some newer non-smart TVs may have built-in support for streaming services but require a separate device to access them. In this case, you can use a Blu-ray player or cable box with internet capabilities to connect your TV to the internet.
To use a Blu-ray player or cable box to connect your TV to the internet, connect the device to your TV using an HDMI cable and follow the on-screen instructions to set it up. Once connected, you can use the device’s menu to access various streaming services and apps.
Option 4: Use a Wired or Wireless Connection
If your non-smart TV has an ethernet port, you can connect it to the internet using a wired connection. Connect an ethernet cable from your router to the TV and follow the on-screen instructions to set it up.
If your TV does not have an ethernet port, you can still connect it to the internet using a wireless connection. You will need a wireless adapter, such as a WiFi dongle, which plugs into your TV’s USB port. Once connected, you can use the TV’s menu to access various streaming services and apps.
FAQs
Can all non-smart TVs be connected to the internet?
In most cases, yes. As long as your TV has an HDMI or USB port, you should be able to connect it to the internet using one of the methods described above.
Do I need a separate subscription for each streaming service?
Yes, in most cases, you must have a separate subscription for each streaming service you want to access. However, some smart TV adapters and devices, such as the Amazon Fire Stick, come with free channels and apps.
Will connecting my non-smart TV to the internet improve its picture quality?
Connecting your TV to the internet will not improve its picture quality. However, some streaming services offer higher resolution options, such as 4K, requiring a TV with a 4K display and a high-speed internet connection to benefit fully.
Can I use my phone as a hotspot to connect my non-smart TV to the internet?
Yes, using your phone as a hotspot to connect your non-smart TV to the internet is possible. To do this, you must enable the hotspot feature on your phone and connect your TV to the hotspot’s wireless network. However, it is important to note that using your phone as a hotspot can quickly drain the battery and may result in additional data usage charges from your mobile carrier.
Can I use my non-smart TV to access the internet without a separate device?
Sometimes, it is possible to access the internet on a non-smart TV without a separate device. For example, some TVs have built-in web browsers that allow you to browse the internet directly from the TV. However, these capabilities are unavailable on all non-smart TVs and may require a separate wired or wireless connection.
Can I connect a non-smart TV to the internet using a LAN cable?
Yes, if your non-smart TV has an ethernet port, you can connect it to the internet using a LAN cable. Connect one end of the cable to the router and the other end to the TV’s ethernet port, and follow the on-screen instructions to set it up.
Do I need a special adapter to wirelessly connect my non-smart TV to the internet?
Yes, in most cases, you will need a special adapter, such as a WiFi dongle, to connect your non-smart TV to the internet wirelessly. These adapters plug into the TV’s USB port and allow you to connect to a wireless network.
Do I need a separate remote to control a smart TV adapter or device?
In most cases, no. Smart TV adapters and devices, such as the Amazon Fire Stick and Google Chromecast, come with a remote control or can be controlled using a smartphone app. However, you may still need to use your TV’s remote to adjust the volume or turn the TV on and off.
Can I use a smart TV adapter or device to access the same content as a smart TV?
In most cases, yes. Smart TV adapters and devices allow you to access various streaming services and apps, including popular options such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. However, it is important to note that some content may not be available on all devices and may require a separate subscription.