How to Fix Slow or Dropped WiFi Samsung Smart TV

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

When you're trying to stream to your Samsung Smart TV and the playback keeps pausing or buffering, it can often be a sign that the Wi-Fi connection to your TV is having some problems.

This guide will help solve problems related to slow Wi-Fi performance you may be having with your Samsung Smart TV.

2. Internet Speed Test

1. Press the Smart Hub button on your remote.
   

1. 
   
2. Select the Web Browser.
   

1. Navigate to http://www.speedtest.net/
   

1. 
   
2. Click Go. 
   

1. The speedtest will run.
   

1. If your results are noticeably lower than usual you may be experiencing connection issues. The distance between the router and your TV and other problems can cause this.
   

Recommended download speeds are:

• Basic Streaming - 1.5Mb or 1,500K
• HD Streaming - 5Mb or 5,000K
• Full HD or Super HD Streaming - 10Mb or 10,000K

3. Range Check

The device needs to be within a reasonable range of the router in order to connect and have the best connection speeds.

• In general, in most homes, you can be up to 30 feet from your router for a decent connection.
• From 30' to 50' away, the speeds will be slower, and may drop occasionally, but it should be usable.
• Greater than 50' away, and the signal will most likely be too weak to overcome interference. The speeds will be slow, and the connection may be sporadic.

The above numbers are approximates only. Optimal range may vary based on router make and model.

4. Restart

1. Turn it off by pressing the Power button on the unit itself or on the remote.
   

1. Then unplug it from the power outlet.
   

1. Wait for 10 seconds.
2. Plug it back in then turn the TV back on from the Power button.
   

5. What's next?

6. Relocate Router Check

Your router may need to be relocated to a more centralized location in order to provide better coverage for all your devices.

Good Placement

Bad Placement

7. Router Relocation

Since this appears to be a range issue that can be resolved by putting the router in closer proximity to the device's intended use area, we recommend moving the router to a more centralized location.

8. Range Extender

If wireless signal is not reaching your device, and relocating your router or the device itself to be in closer proximity is not possible or doesn't resolve the issue, a great way to boost wireless signal without replacing existing equipment is to acquire and install a range extender. Range extenders work with your existing wireless router as a type of wireless repeater used to expand the reach of wireless signal in your home.