I have an LG TV from two years ago that suddenly stopped connecting to WiFi, even though my phone and computer connect without any problem. I've tried restarting the TV, unplugging the router, all that stuff. What could be going on? Is it the WiFi module that broke or something software-related?
First of all, go into your network settings and delete that saved WiFi connection, then connect again from scratch like it's the first time - sometimes the TV holds onto old or corrupted network data that won't let you connect even though the router is working fine. If that doesn't work, then try going into your LG's diagnostic options (usually under Support or System) to see if it gives you any specific error about the WiFi module. I had something similar a while back and that was exactly it - the saved connection was messed up, I deleted it and boom 😅 If it still doesn't work after deleting and reconnecting, then it's probably a hardware issue, but at least you'll have ruled out a software problem without losing anything.
Don't try factory-resetting the TV yet, because if it's a software issue you could lose settings for nothing. First things first: go to the TV's network settings and check if there's a software update available. Sometimes the WiFi module needs an updated firmware to work properly. Also try "forgetting" the WiFi network on the TV and reconnecting from scratch, entering the password manually. Some LGs get stuck with corrupted connection data.
If that doesn't work, check whether the TV at least detects the WiFi network. If it's not showing up in the list of available networks, it's probably a module failure. If it sees it but won't connect or says "connected without internet," then it's more likely a software issue or IP assignment problem. Try changing the DNS connection type in the advanced network settings, use public DNS like Google's 8.8.8.8.
If none of this works and the TV still can't see the network, honestly the WiFi module is probably damaged. At two years old it shouldn't be broken like that, but it happens. In that case you'd have to send it in for repair or use an Ethernet adapter via USB if your TV supports it. Before you spend money, call LG's technical support and describe exactly what you're seeing in the settings - sometimes they have more specific tricks depending on the model.
First try forgetting the WiFi network on the TV and reconnecting, but if that doesn't work after a couple of tries, go into the network settings and check if there's any specific error message or if the TV detects other networks - that'll tell you if the module's dead or if it's a software mess. Depending on what you see there, you'll know whether it's worth trying a harder reset or if you need to call a technician.
It could be a software issue, but it's also worth checking if your TV has any pending updates in the settings, because sometimes they get stuck halfway through and break connectivity - I've seen that happen. If after forgetting the network and trying to connect again it still doesn't work, then it's probably a hardware module problem.
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