How to Connect a Non-Smart TV to WiFi Wirelessly? Step-by-Step Guide

Have a non-smart TV and want to stream Netflix, YouTube, or browse the web—without replacing your old TV? You're not alone. Many users are searching for practical solutions on how to connect a non-smart TV to WiFi wirelessly, and the good news is it's absolutely possible with the right devices.

This guide will walk you through the best methods to turn your regular TV into a WiFi-capable entertainment hub—no HDMI expertise required.

What You’ll Need​

Since non-smart TVs don’t have built-in WiFi or apps, you’ll need an external streaming device or adapter. Here are the most common and effective options:

Device	What It Does	Connection Type
Streaming Stick (e.g., Amazon Fire Stick, Roku, Chromecast)	Adds apps & WiFi support	HDMI
Smart TV Box (e.g., Apple TV, Android TV Box)	Full smart interface	HDMI
Gaming Consoles (e.g., PS4, Xbox One)	Media + gaming + streaming	HDMI
Wireless HDMI Kit	Sends content wirelessly from your phone or laptop	HDMI or AV

Step-by-Step: How to Connect a Non-Smart TV to WiFi Wirelessly​

Method 1: Use a Streaming Device (Best Option)​

This is the most reliable and cost-effective solution.

What you need:

A non-smart TV with an HDMI port and a streaming stick like:

• Amazon Fire TV Stick
• Roku Streaming Stick
• Google Chromecast
• Apple TV

How to set it up:

1. Plug the streaming stick into the HDMI port on the back of your TV.
2. Connect the device to power using the included USB cable and adapter.
3. Change your TV’s input source to the corresponding HDMI input.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect the device to your home WiFi.
5. Sign in to your streaming accounts and enjoy.

Tip: If your TV has no HDMI port, you can use an HDMI-to-RCA converter to connect the device via AV inputs.

Method 2: Use a Streaming Box (More Features, Higher Cost)​

Devices like the Apple TV, Nvidia Shield, or Android TV Box work similarly to a smartphone. They offer a full smart TV interface with access to thousands of apps.

Steps:

1. Connect the box to your TV via HDMI.
2. Plug in the power and boot it up.
3. Use the remote to access settings and connect to WiFi.
4. Download apps and start streaming.

Method 3: Use a Gaming Console​

Already have a PlayStation or Xbox? These consoles have built-in WiFi and streaming apps.

Steps:

1. Connect your console to the TV via HDMI.
2. Power on and go to Settings > Network to connect to WiFi.
3. Open apps like YouTube, Netflix, or Hulu from the main menu.

hdmi-kit-no-smart-features" >Method 4: Use a Wireless HDMI Kit (No Smart Features)​

This solution lets you mirror content wirelessly from your PC or smartphone to the TV, but it doesn’t turn your TV “smart.”

What you need:

A wireless HDMI transmitter + receiver set


Steps:

1. Connect the transmitter to your laptop or phone (via USB-C or HDMI).
2. Connect the receiver to your TV’s HDMI port.
3. Power both devices and follow the pairing instructions.
4. Your screen should now mirror wirelessly.

Frequently Asked Questions​

Q: Can I connect my non-smart TV to WiFi directly?​

A: No. Non-smart TVs don’t have built-in WiFi hardware. You need an external device to enable WiFi connectivity.

hdmi" >Q: What if my TV doesn’t have HDMI?​

A: Use an HDMI to RCA converter to connect modern devices to old AV input ports.

Q: Can I browse the internet on my non-smart TV?​

A: Yes—if you connect a streaming box or stick that has a browser app, like Android TV or Apple TV.

Summary: How to Connect a Non-Smart TV to WiFi Wireless​

Method	Device Needed	Smart Feature Access	Difficulty
Streaming Stick	Fire Stick, Roku, Chromecast	Yes	Easy
Smart TV Box	Android TV Box, Apple TV	Yes	Medium
Gaming Console	PS4, Xbox	Yes	Medium
Wireless HDMI	HDMI Kit	No (mirroring only)	Medium

Related Reading:

LG TV Says WiFi Is Turned Off, Quick Fix

Samsung TV Remote App Without WiFi, Detailed Guide