In my previous article, I discussed two things; why your TV not connecting to WiFi and the second is, even if it connects, why it automatically gets disconnected from it and shows the message “WiFi is Turned off”
Now another issue is popping up—”LG TV’s Network settings Greyed Out”
This means, sometimes the network settings options are automatically get’s disabled or unavailable for selection. Often users can’t access the network settings page to configure a network connection!
Well, if that’s the problem you are experiencing right now with your LG TV, hopefully, this guide will help you to troubleshoot it in a few minutes.
Let’s dive into it…
What causes LG TV’s network settings to become grayed out or disabled?
Often LG TVs’ network settings are grayed out due to software/firmware issues, network connectivity problems, parental controls, hardware limitations, or conflicts with third-party apps/devices.
Here are some explanations you might want to explore;
♦ Firmware or software issues
Sometimes, a glitch or bug in the TV’s firmware or software can lead to certain settings being inaccessible. This can occur after a software update or due to other factors affecting the TV’s operating system.
♦ Network connectivity problems
If the TV is unable to establish a stable network connection or encounters issues while connecting to the internet, it may disable the network settings as a protective measure.
This can happen if the Wi-Fi signal is weak, the network settings are improperly configured, or there are problems with the router or modem.
♦ Hardware limitations
In rare cases, certain models of LG TVs may have hardware limitations that prevent the network settings from being accessed or modified.
This could be a specific issue with that particular TV model.
How to Fix When Network Settings Are Greyed Out on an LG TV?
- Disconnect the TV from the power outlet completely.
- Wait for at least two minutes.
- During this time, press and hold the TV’s power button for about 15 seconds.
- Once done, power the TV back on and test the result.
Here are the step-by-step guidelines
Step 1: Refresh all the internal circuit
You have to do this using a traditional method: Power Cycling.
I know this is something no one wants to hear, and maybe you have already rebooted your TV millions of times!
But it really works! You just need to execute it in a different way.
Here’s how:
- Disconnect both your TV and WiFi router from the power outlet.
- Keep them unplugged for about two minutes. (Don’t compromise here)
- During this time, press and hold the power button on both of them for about 15 seconds.
- Once done, power them back in.
Now check whether the problem has been fixed and you are able to access the network settings page.
If not, proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Reset the Firmware
If the issue is caused by a system malfunction or if one of the core files has been damaged, a firmware reset can help eliminate this problem.
Essentially, a copy of the system files is stored in the firmware, which is a type of permanent memory embedded in the device’s hardware.
When performing a firmware reset, the device’s firmware is restored to its original state, effectively replacing any corrupted or damaged core files with fresh copies.”
Anyway, to factory reset your TV, press the Gear icon button on the remote, navigate to Settings/All Settings, select Support or General, and then Reset to Initial Settings.
A warning message will appear before the reset is initiated, and all customized settings and applications will be removed.
Note: I recommend factory resetting your TV only after checking the 3rd step. If the third step fails, then you are good to go!
Step 3: Clean the network module
Network module is the key component of network connection. It’s like a bridge between your router and TV.
When the router sends a signal, network module receives it and passes it to the main board!
Anyway, the concept here is simple—if this module gets damaged or dusty, you may not see any available network list or even the setting page will be grayed out that you are experiencing right now!
Shuvo said,
“Thought my newly bought 65” TV got ruined! Power cycled several times, no improvement. Sometimes i can access in network settings page, but mostly it stay disabled like the manufacturer stopped networking feature. Cleaned the module as he told, BAMP, it’s working now!”😊
The cleaning process is pretty simple, even a non-DIYer can do it.
Just grab a screwdriver, disassemble your TV (carefully, of course!), and give that Wi-Fi module a thorough cleaning. Once it’s pop it back in, voila! Your TV should be back in action.
Below are visual representations illustrating the step using pictures:
For disassembling the TV and cleaning the module perfectly, check out this video tutorial from this link.
I’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps, but the network settings on my LG TV are still greyed out
If none of the troubleshooting steps I mentioned above have resolved the issue, contact LG customer support.
They can provide further assistance based on your specific TV model and even give you a free service if necessary.
F.A.Q.s
Q: My LG TV network settings were working fine before. What could have caused them to become greyed out suddenly?
A sudden greyed-out network settings issue could be caused by a software update or a change in the network configuration.
It’s also possible that an error occurred during the TV’s operation, leading to the settings becoming inaccessible.
Q: Could parental controls or restricted access settings be the reason behind greyed-out network settings on my LG TV?
Yes, parental controls or restricted access settings can restrict certain functionalities, including network settings, on an LG TV.
Check the TV’s settings menu for any parental control options and ensure that the appropriate access permissions are enabled.
Q: Are there any alternative ways to access network settings if they are greyed out on my LG TV?
In some cases, you may be able to access network settings through alternative methods. For example, some LG TVs have a dedicated smartphone app that allows you to control and adjust settings.
Additionally, certain models may have hidden menus or key combinations that can provide access to advanced settings, including network configurations.
Check the TV’s user manual or online resources for specific instructions related to your model.
Abdul Kader, a handy guy and experienced founder of a TV repair shop in Gulshan, Dhaka, Bangladesh. He is mainly an expert in understanding and repairing different types of issues with Smart TVs and providing helpful insights on how to keep them in good working order. Read his Full Story.