A new smart TV can do much more than show regular television. It can connect to the internet, stream films and programmes, play music, and display photos. But before you can enjoy those features, you need to complete the first-time setup.
The good news is that most smart TVs follow a similar process. The exact wording on screen varies between brands such as Samsung, LG, Sony, TCL, Hisense, and models using Google TV, Roku TV, or Fire TV. Take your time, keep your Wi-Fi password nearby, and follow the prompts on your screen.
What you’ll need
Before you begin, have these items ready:
- Your TV remote and, if required, fresh batteries.
- Your home Wi-Fi network name and password.
- A Google, Amazon, Roku, Samsung, or other account if your TV or chosen apps require one.
- Any cable or satellite box, games console, soundbar, or aerial you plan to connect.
You can usually complete the basic setup without connecting every extra device.
Step 1: Position the TV and connect the power
Place the TV on a stable stand or mount it securely according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Leave enough space around the vents so the TV can release heat. Keep cables tidy and away from walkways.
Connect the power cable to the TV and then to a suitable wall outlet. If you are using a separate power adapter, make sure its connections are secure.
Turn on the TV using the power button on the remote or the button on the TV itself. The first screen may ask you to choose a language and country or region.
Careful: If you are wall-mounting the TV, follow the manufacturer’s mounting instructions and use a mount suitable for the TV’s size and weight. Ask someone experienced for help if needed.
Step 2: Pair the remote and choose your preferences
Some remotes work as soon as you insert the batteries. Others need to be paired with the TV, often by holding one or two buttons shown in the on-screen instructions.
Follow the instructions displayed by your TV. If pairing does not work, check that the batteries are inserted correctly and that nothing is blocking the TV’s sensor. For Bluetooth or voice remotes, keep the remote close to the TV while pairing.
Choose your preferred language, country or region, and sometimes a time zone. These choices help the TV display the correct menus, local services, and programme information.
You may also be asked whether the TV is for home use or store demonstration. Choose Home or Home Mode for normal everyday use.
Good to know: The names and order of these options vary. If your screen looks different, follow the closest matching prompt rather than searching for an identical menu.
Step 3: Connect the smart TV to Wi-Fi
Your TV needs an internet connection to download apps and stream online programmes.
When asked to connect to a network, choose your home Wi-Fi name from the list. Enter the Wi-Fi password carefully, paying attention to capital letters and numbers. Select Connect, Join, or the equivalent option shown on screen.
Wait for the TV to confirm that it is connected. Some models offer a wired connection instead. If your TV has an Ethernet port and your router is nearby, connect an Ethernet cable between the router and TV, then select the wired network option if prompted.
If your network does not appear, move the TV or router closer if practical, check that the router is switched on, and try scanning again. A hidden network may require you to enter its name manually.
Tip: If the password is difficult to enter with the remote, check whether your TV offers a phone app or on-screen keyboard option. Use only the official app for your TV brand.
Step 4: Sign in or create an account
Some smart TVs ask you to sign in during setup. The account depends on the TV platform. For example, Google TV uses a Google account for certain features, while Fire TV uses an Amazon account. Other brands may offer their own accounts.
Follow the on-screen instructions. You may be able to sign in by entering your email address and password, scanning a QR code, or visiting a web address on another device and entering a code shown on the TV.
Only use the sign-in method displayed by your TV. Check the web address carefully before entering your details, and never share a verification code with someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
You may be offered an option to skip sign-in. If so, you can decide whether to continue without an account, although some apps and features may not be available until you sign in.
Step 5: Review privacy and data settings
During setup, the TV may ask you to agree to terms, enable voice features, share viewing information, or allow personalised recommendations.
Read each choice before accepting it. Some settings are optional and can be left off if you do not want to use them. Look for options relating to voice recognition, viewing data, personalised advertising, diagnostics, and location.
You can usually review these choices later in a menu called Settings, Privacy, Terms and Privacy, or something similar. The exact path depends on the TV brand and software version.
Tip: You do not have to enable every optional feature to watch television. Choose the settings you are comfortable with, and review them again later if you change your mind.
Step 6: Install or arrange your streaming apps
Your TV may come with popular apps already installed. To add more, open its app store. Depending on the platform, it may be called Apps, App Store, Google Play Store, Roku Channel Store, or Find.
Search for the app you want, such as a streaming service, music service, or broadcaster’s app. Select it and choose Install, Get, or Add. When installation finishes, open the app and follow its sign-in instructions.
Some services require a separate subscription. Installing an app does not automatically give you a paid membership. Check the service’s price and terms before starting a trial or entering payment details.
Step 7: Connect other devices and choose the right input
If you have a cable box, satellite receiver, games console, Blu-ray player, or soundbar, connect it using the ports and cables recommended by the device manufacturers. HDMI is commonly used for video and audio.
Press the remote’s Input, Source, or Home button to find the connected device. Select the HDMI input that matches the port you used, such as HDMI 1 or HDMI 2.
If you use an aerial or antenna for live television, connect it to the TV’s antenna or RF input. Open the TV’s channel setup menu and choose Auto Scan, Auto Tuning, or Channel Search. Follow the prompts to find available channels.
Step 8: Check for software updates and adjust the picture
A new TV may need a software update. Open Settings and look for Support, System, About, or Software Update. Choose the option to check for updates and follow the instructions. Menu names vary by brand.
Keep the TV connected to the internet while an update is installing. Do not unplug it or switch it off unless the screen tells you to do so.
Next, adjust the picture and sound to suit your room. Picture modes may include Standard, Cinema, Movie, Vivid, or Filmmaker Mode. Try a natural-looking mode first. You can change brightness, sound level, captions, and accessibility options at any time.
Troubleshooting common setup problems
The TV will not connect to Wi-Fi. Check that the password is correct, restart your router if needed, and try connecting again. If possible, test the TV with an Ethernet cable. If other devices also cannot connect, the issue may be with your internet service or router.
The remote will not pair. Replace or reseat the batteries, move closer to the TV, and repeat the pairing instructions. Some basic remotes do not need pairing.
An app will not install or open. Check the internet connection, available TV storage, and whether the TV software is up to date. Some older TVs no longer support newer versions of certain apps.
There is no picture from a connected device. Confirm that the device is switched on, the HDMI cable is firmly connected, and the TV is set to the matching HDMI input. Try another HDMI port if one is available.
Enjoy your new smart TV
Once the TV is connected, updated, and signed in where needed, the main setup is complete. Spend a few minutes arranging your favourite apps and adjusting the picture, sound, and privacy settings.
You do not need to learn every feature at once. Start with the things you use most, and explore the rest whenever you are ready.
