How-To Enable Parental Controls on a Vizio Smart TV

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

Enabling Parental Controls on a Vizio Smart TV

Enabling parental controls on a Vizio Smart TV is a great way to restrict access to certain content and ensure that the content your family watches is appropriate. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to set up parental controls on your Vizio Smart TV:

Note: The specific steps and options may vary depending on the model and firmware version of your Vizio TV. These instructions are intended to provide a general idea of the process.

Step 1: Access the Main Menu

Turn on your Vizio Smart TV and make sure it's connected to the internet.

Using your remote control, press the "Menu" or "V" button. This will open the main menu.

Step 2: Navigate to Parental Controls

Use the arrow buttons on your remote to navigate through the menu options.

Look for an option related to "Parental Controls" or "Locks." It might be located under the "System" or "Settings" menu. The exact location can vary by model.

Step 3: Set a Parental Control PIN

When you find the "Parental Controls" or similar option, select it.

You will be prompted to create a Parental Control PIN. This PIN will be used to access and modify the parental control settings, so make sure it's something you can remember but not something that's easily guessable.

Step 4: Configure Content Restrictions

Once you've set the PIN, you'll be able to configure content restrictions. The options may include restricting content based on TV and movie ratings, blocking specific channels, and blocking streaming services or apps.

Navigate through the options and choose the settings that best suit your needs. You may be able to select specific rating levels, block unrated content, and more.

Step 5: Lock Individual Apps or Inputs

Depending on your TV model, you may have the option to lock individual apps or inputs. For example, you can lock streaming apps like Netflix or specific HDMI inputs like a game console.

Select the apps or inputs you want to lock, and set a PIN for each if necessary.

Step 6: Test the Parental Controls

After configuring your parental controls, it's a good idea to test them to ensure they work as expected. Try accessing restricted content or apps, and the TV should prompt you to enter the PIN to continue.

Step 7: Exit the Menu

Once you've configured the parental controls to your satisfaction, exit the menu by pressing the "Menu" or "Exit" button on your remote.

Your Vizio Smart TV is now equipped with parental controls to help manage and restrict the content that can be accessed. Be sure to keep your Parental Control PIN secure, and if you ever need to change or disable the settings, you can return to the Parental Controls menu using the PIN you created.