Use this guide when you have a new smart TV, streaming stick or box and want it working properly. Have your Wi-Fi password, the logins for any streaming subscriptions and your TV licence details ready.
Step by step
Connect and position the TV
Connect the aerial if you want Freeview, and plug any streaming stick into an HDMI port. Keep the TV or router within good Wi-Fi range, or use an Ethernet cable if there is a socket nearby. Stable broadband matters more than the TV itself for streaming quality.
Run the setup wizard
Choose your language and country, connect to Wi-Fi and let the TV tune channels if you have an aerial. Install any software updates it offers. Read the privacy and viewing data options and switch off any you do not want.
Check your TV licence position
In the UK you need a TV licence to watch or record live TV on any channel or device, or to use BBC iPlayer. You do not need one if you only watch on-demand services other than BBC iPlayer. Check TV Licensing's official guidance if you are unsure, and never pay through links in unexpected emails or texts.
Add only the services you use
Install the apps for your subscriptions and free catch-up services and sign in. Remove preloaded apps you will not use to keep menus tidy. Write down which subscriptions you pay for and when they renew.
Set up profiles and parental controls
Create separate profiles for adults and children on each streaming service. Set a PIN for purchases, rentals and adult-rated content in both the TV settings and each app. Test that a child's profile cannot open unsuitable programmes.
Fine-tune picture and sound
Switch off motion smoothing and try a standard or film picture mode for a more natural image. Turn on subtitles or speech-enhancing sound settings if dialogue is hard to hear. Save your settings and set the TV to update automatically.
Ready-to-use checklist
- Aerial and HDMI devices connected
- TV connected to Wi-Fi or cable
- Software updated
- Viewing data options reviewed
- TV licence need checked
- Streaming apps signed in
- Purchase and parental PINs set
- Subscriptions and renewal dates listed
Practical tips
- If streaming buffers, restart the router and TV before paying for faster broadband.
- Buy or rent films only through the TV's own store or trusted apps, not through links sent to you.
- Log out of streaming accounts before selling or giving away an old TV or stick.
Common problems
The TV cannot find any channels.
Check the aerial cable is firmly connected and run an automatic retune from the settings menu. If channels are still missing, check for local transmitter work or ask a qualified aerial installer to test the signal.
Streaming keeps buffering or looks blurry.
Test your broadband speed and move the router closer or use a cable. Close streaming on other devices and lower the video quality setting in the app if needed.
I got an email saying my TV licence or streaming payment failed.
Do not click the link, as this is a common scam. Log in to the official website or app directly to check, and report the email as phishing.
This guide gives general information, not personal legal, financial or medical advice. Rules and prices change, so check the current position with the official service before acting.
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