How to Fix Sony Smart TV Not Working on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Connecting your Sony Smart TV to a Windows 11 PC should be a smooth experience. However, sometimes the connection might not work as expected. This guide will help you troubleshoot common issues step-by-step.

Whether you want to mirror your screen, stream content, or use your TV as a second monitor, these instructions will cover basic fixes. No advanced technical skills are required.

Each step is explained clearly to help you understand why it matters. Follow along patiently and you should be able to resolve most problems.

Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the troubleshooting process.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

Ensure Both Devices Are on the Same Network: For screen mirroring or casting, your Sony TV and Windows 11 PC must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. This allows them to communicate properly.
Update Your Devices: Check that both your Sony TV’s firmware and Windows 11 are up to date. Updates often fix bugs that cause connectivity problems.
Check TV Input Settings: Make sure your Sony TV is set to the correct input source when trying to connect via HDMI or casting.
Restart Devices: Sometimes a simple restart of both the TV and PC resolves temporary glitches.

Troubleshooting Steps for Sony Smart TV Not Working on Windows 11

Step 1: Verify Your Network Connection

First, confirm that both your TV and PC are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. If they are on different networks or one device is on Ethernet and the other on Wi-Fi, the connection might fail.

To check on Windows 11, click the network icon in the taskbar and see which network you’re connected to. On your Sony TV, navigate to Settings > Network > View Network Status.

Step 2: Use the Built-in Windows 11 “Connect” App

Windows 11 has a built-in app called “Connect” that allows you to mirror your screen to compatible devices like Sony Smart TVs.

Press Windows + S and type Connect, then open the app.
On your Sony TV, open the screen mirroring or casting option (this may be under Settings > Network > Screen Mirroring or Google Cast, depending on your model).
Your TV should appear as a device in the Connect app. Click on it to start mirroring.

If your TV does not appear, try restarting both devices and repeat this step.

Step 3: Check Firewall and Network Permissions on Windows 11

Windows Firewall or security software might block your TV from connecting.

Open Windows Security by typing it in the Start menu search.
Go to Firewall & network protection.
Click on your active network (e.g., Private network).
Ensure that the firewall is not blocking apps related to screen mirroring or casting.
If necessary, create an exception for the Connect app or related services.

This step is important because blocked network traffic can prevent your PC and TV from communicating.

Step 4: Try Using HDMI Cable as an Alternative

If wireless connection fails, connecting your PC to the Sony TV using an HDMI cable can be a reliable alternative.

Plug one end of the HDMI cable into your PC’s HDMI port.
Plug the other end into an available HDMI input on your Sony TV.
Use your TV remote to switch to the corresponding HDMI input.
On Windows 11, press Windows + P and select Duplicate or Extend to configure your display.

This method bypasses network issues and provides a direct connection.

Step 5: Update or Reinstall Display and Network Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause connection problems.

Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager.
Expand Display adapters and right-click your graphics card.
Select Update driver and follow prompts.
Do the same for Network adapters.
If updating doesn’t help, you can uninstall the driver and restart your PC to reinstall automatically.

Keeping drivers updated ensures compatibility with newer versions of Windows and your TV software.

Step 6: Use Third-Party Casting or Mirroring Apps

If the built-in Windows options don’t work, apps like Miracast, AirScreen, or LetsView can help with screen mirroring.

Download and install these apps on both your PC and Sony Smart TV if available, then follow their instructions for connection.

This can sometimes offer more stability or additional features.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does my Sony Smart TV not show up on my Windows 11 PC?

This usually happens if devices are on different networks, firewall settings block connections, or the TV’s screen mirroring feature is turned off.

Can I use Bluetooth to connect my Sony TV to Windows 11?

Bluetooth is not typically used for screen mirroring or casting. Wi-Fi or HDMI connections are preferred for video and audio streaming.

Is my Sony Smart TV compatible with Windows 11 screen mirroring?

Most modern Sony Smart TVs support Miracast or Google Cast, which are compatible with Windows 11. Check your TV’s manual or specifications to confirm.

What do I do if the video is lagging or choppy?

Lagging can be caused by a weak Wi-Fi signal or network congestion. Try moving your devices closer to the router or use a wired HDMI connection for better performance.

How do I reset my Sony Smart TV’s network settings?

Go to Settings > Network > Reset Network Settings on your TV. This can fix issues related to corrupted network configurations.

When Nothing Works: Final Resort Options

If you have tried all the steps above and your Sony Smart TV still does not connect with Windows 11, consider the following:

Factory Reset Your TV: This will erase all settings and restore defaults. Only do this if you are comfortable setting up the TV again.
Contact Sony Support: Visit the official Sony support page for personalized help.
Check Windows 11 Support Forums: Sometimes other users have similar issues with solutions posted on Microsoft’s forums.
Use a Different Device: Test connecting another Windows device or smartphone to the TV to isolate whether the problem is with your PC or TV.

Conclusion

Fixing connection problems between your Sony Smart TV and Windows 11 can usually be done by following a few simple steps. Always start with basic network checks and ensure both devices are updated.

Using the Windows Connect app or HDMI cable provides the most straightforward ways to link your PC and TV. If network-related issues persist, adjusting firewall settings or updating drivers often helps.

For more complex problems, third-party apps or official support channels are valuable resources. By following this guide carefully, you should be able to enjoy seamless streaming and screen mirroring between your Sony TV and Windows 11 PC.