Can I Connect My Panasonic Viera TV to the Internet? Navigating Your Smart (or Not-So-Smart) TV’s Online Journey

Picture this: Sarah, a busy working mom, finally carves out some time to relax. She settles onto the couch, remote in hand, eager to catch up on her favorite show. Her trusty Panasonic Viera TV, a reliable workhorse for years, powers on. “Wouldn’t it be great,” she muses, “if I could just fire up Netflix directly from the TV, like my neighbor does on her newfangled smart set?” She navigates through the menus, searching for a Wi-Fi setting or an app store, only to be met with either a frustrating dead end or a collection of long-forgotten, half-working apps. Sound familiar? Many of us have been there, wondering, “Can I connect my Panasonic Viera TV to the internet?”

The concise answer is: Yes, many Panasonic Viera TVs can connect to the internet, but the extent of their internet functionality—and how useful it is today—varies significantly depending on the specific model and its vintage. While some Viera models boast built-in Wi-Fi or an Ethernet port for direct connection, and even offered a suite of “smart” apps like Viera Connect or Viera Link, others might require an external streaming device to bring them into the modern age of online content. Understanding your specific Viera model is the first, crucial step in unlocking its internet potential.

Understanding Your Panasonic Viera: A Spectrum of Smartness

Panasonic Viera TVs, once a powerhouse in the display market, spanned a significant era of technological evolution. From the early days of high-definition plasma and LCD screens to the nascent stages of smart TV integration, the “Viera” badge graced a wide array of models. This means there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to internet connectivity. Instead, it’s more of a journey through different levels of “smart” capability.

We can broadly categorize Viera TVs into a few generations when it comes to internet connectivity:

• The “Analog” Era (Pre-2010/2011 approximately): These are your workhorses designed primarily for broadcast television, DVD players, and early game consoles. They often lack any internet connectivity hardware, built-in or otherwise. Think of them as excellent monitors, but not much more.
• The “Early Smart” Era (Roughly 2011-2013): This is when Panasonic started dipping its toes into the smart TV pond with features like “Viera Connect” or “Viera Cast.” These models usually have an Ethernet port and sometimes support an optional Wi-Fi dongle (which was often sold separately). They came with a limited selection of pre-installed apps.
• The “Integrated Smart” Era (Roughly 2014-2016): Many models from this period began to integrate Wi-Fi directly into the TV, alongside an Ethernet port. The smart platform became a bit more robust, though still often proprietary to Panasonic. These TVs might have offered more apps or a more refined user interface compared to their predecessors.
• The “Modern” Era (Post-2016/2017): While the Viera branding eventually phased out in favor of simply “Panasonic TVs,” the later models adopted more mainstream smart TV platforms, often running on Firefox OS (briefly) or Android TV in some regions. These TVs offer full-fledged smart functionality comparable to other modern brands. However, for the purpose of this article, we’re primarily focusing on the earlier Viera branded sets that are likely causing confusion for users.

The key takeaway here is that while your Viera might have an internet connection, its utility for modern streaming services can be severely limited by its age and the obsolescence of its original smart platform.

How to Determine Your Viera’s Internet Capabilities

Before you start digging for cables or debating a new streaming stick, let’s figure out what your specific Panasonic Viera TV can actually do. This detective work is quite straightforward.

1. Identify Your TV’s Model Number

This is your golden ticket. The model number tells you everything. You’ll usually find it in one of these spots:

• Back of the TV: Look for a sticker on the rear panel, often in a corner or near the input ports.
• Side of the TV: Sometimes a small sticker is on the side bezel.
• Owner’s Manual: If you still have it, the model number will be prominent.
• TV’s Menu System: Navigate to Menu > Setup > System Information or something similar. The exact path can vary slightly by model.

Viera model numbers often look something like “TC-P50GT30,” “TX-P42ST50,” or “TC-L47DT60.” The letters and numbers typically indicate screen size, series (e.g., GT, ST, VT), and the year of manufacture (e.g., ’30’ might be 2011, ’50’ for 2012, ’60’ for 2013, etc.). Once you have it, a quick search online for “Panasonic [Your Model Number] specifications” or “Panasonic [Your Model Number] smart features” can quickly confirm its internet capabilities.

2. Check for Physical Ports

A quick glance at the back or side of your TV can reveal a lot:

• Ethernet Port (LAN port): This looks like a larger phone jack, designed for an RJ-45 cable. If you have one, your TV supports a wired internet connection.
• USB Ports: While not directly for internet, some older Vieras required a proprietary Panasonic Wi-Fi dongle to be plugged into a USB port for wireless connectivity. If your model documentation mentions Wi-Fi but doesn’t have it built-in, a USB port is where that dongle would go.

3. Explore the TV’s Menu for Network Settings

If your Viera has internet capabilities, there will be a “Network” or “Internet” section in its main menu. Navigate to Menu > Network (or Setup > Network, Settings > Network). If you see options for Wi-Fi setup, wired connection, or network status, then your TV is designed to connect to the internet.

4. Look for “Smart” Features

Does your remote have a button labeled “Viera Connect,” “Viera Cast,” or “Apps”? If so, your TV was designed with some level of smart functionality, even if those apps are now defunct. The presence of these features implies internet connectivity.

Connecting Your Panasonic Viera TV to the Internet (If Supported Natively)

Once you’ve established that your Viera TV actually has the hardware to connect, the process is usually quite straightforward, mirroring how most smart devices connect.

Method 1: Wired Connection (Ethernet)

This is often the most stable and reliable way to connect, especially for older smart TVs that might struggle with Wi-Fi performance.

What you’ll need:

• An Ethernet cable (also known as a LAN cable or RJ-45 cable).
• A router or modem with available Ethernet ports.

Detailed Steps:

1. Locate the Ethernet Port: On the back of your Viera TV, find the square-shaped port that looks like an oversized phone jack. It’s usually labeled “LAN” or “Ethernet.”
2. Connect the Cable: Plug one end of the Ethernet cable into the TV’s LAN port.
3. Connect to Router: Plug the other end of the Ethernet cable into an available LAN port on your internet router or modem. These ports are typically on the back of the router and are often numbered (e.g., LAN1, LAN2).
4. Power On TV: Turn on your Panasonic Viera TV.
5. Access Network Settings: Using your TV remote, press the Menu button. Navigate to the Network or Setup section.
6. Select Wired Connection: Look for an option like “Network Connection,” “Network Settings,” or “Wired Setup.” Select it.
7. Automatic Configuration: Most Viera TVs will attempt to automatically detect and configure the wired connection using DHCP. Select “Auto” or “Obtain IP Address Automatically” if prompted.
8. Test Connection: There’s usually an option to “Test Connection” or “Network Test.” Run this to confirm the TV has successfully connected to your home network and the internet.

Pros of Wired Connection: Exceptional stability, faster speeds (less prone to interference), ideal for high-bandwidth streaming (though older Vieras might not fully utilize this).
Cons of Wired Connection: Requires running an unsightly cable, limits TV placement to near an Ethernet port or requires powerline adapters.

Method 2: Wireless Connection (Built-in Wi-Fi)

If your Viera model has integrated Wi-Fi, this offers convenience and flexibility in TV placement.

What you’ll need:

• Your home Wi-Fi network name (SSID).
• Your Wi-Fi network password (security key).

Detailed Steps:

1. Power On TV: Turn on your Panasonic Viera TV.
2. Access Network Settings: Press the Menu button on your remote. Navigate to the Network or Setup section.
3. Select Wireless Connection: Look for “Network Connection,” “Wireless Setup,” or “Wi-Fi Settings.” Select it.
4. Scan for Networks: The TV will usually present an option to “Scan for Networks” or “Search for Access Points.” Select this.
5. Choose Your Network: From the list of available Wi-Fi networks, select your home network’s name (SSID).
6. Enter Password: If your network is password-protected (which it absolutely should be!), an on-screen keyboard will appear. Carefully enter your Wi-Fi password. It’s case-sensitive!
7. Confirm Connection: Once the password is entered, the TV will attempt to connect. A confirmation message should appear indicating a successful connection.
8. Test Connection: Use the “Test Connection” or “Network Test” option to verify internet access.

Pros of Wireless Connection: No messy cables, flexible TV placement, convenient setup.
Cons of Wireless Connection: Can be less stable than wired, susceptible to interference, signal strength can impact performance, potentially slower speeds depending on TV’s Wi-Fi standard.

Method 3: Wireless Connection (Wi-Fi Dongle)

Some early smart Vieras (typically 2011-2013 models) might have advertised Wi-Fi compatibility but required a specific USB Wi-Fi adapter, often proprietary to Panasonic. These dongles are becoming increasingly hard to find and may not offer modern Wi-Fi standards.

What you’ll need:

• The specific Panasonic-compatible Wi-Fi dongle (e.g., Panasonic TY-WL20U or TY-WL20E).
• Your home Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password.

Detailed Steps:

1. Insert Dongle: With the TV turned off, carefully plug the Wi-Fi dongle into an available USB port on your Viera TV.
2. Power On TV: Turn on your TV.
3. Access Network Settings: Press the Menu button on your remote. Navigate to the Network or Setup section.
4. Select Wireless Connection: The TV should now detect the dongle and offer “Wireless Setup” or “Wi-Fi Settings.”
5. Scan and Connect: Follow steps 4-8 from the “Wireless Connection (Built-in Wi-Fi)” section above to scan for your network, enter the password, and test the connection.

Caveat: If your Viera required a dongle, be aware that these older accessories often use older Wi-Fi standards (like 802.11n or even g), which may not provide optimal performance with modern streaming services. Finding these specific dongles today can also be a challenge, and generic USB Wi-Fi adapters typically won’t work.

The “Aging Smart TV” Dilemma: When Native Apps Just Don’t Cut It Anymore

So, you’ve successfully connected your Viera to the internet. Hooray! You navigate to the “Viera Connect” or “Apps” section, full of anticipation. Then, reality often sets in. You might find:

• Missing Apps: Many popular streaming services (Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Max, Peacock, etc.) are simply not available on older Viera platforms anymore. Developers stopped supporting these proprietary systems years ago.
• Non-Functional Apps: Even if an app icon for, say, YouTube or Amazon Prime Video appears, clicking it might lead to an error message, a never-ending loading screen, or an outdated interface that no longer connects to the service’s servers.
• Slow Performance: The processors in older smart TVs weren’t designed for the complex, ever-evolving streaming apps of today. Navigation can be sluggish, buffering frequent, and video quality subpar.
• Security Concerns: Older firmware isn’t updated, potentially leaving your TV vulnerable, although the risk is lower for a TV compared to a computer.
• Outdated Interface: The user experience on Viera Connect often feels clunky and unintuitive compared to modern streaming platforms.

I remember trying to get Netflix to run reliably on an older Viera for my grandparents. It was a constant battle of re-logging in, buffering, and ultimately, disappointment. The TV itself had a gorgeous picture, but its “smart” features were effectively lobotomized by the passage of time. This isn’t a Panasonic-specific issue; it’s common for early smart TVs across all brands. The fast-paced evolution of online services simply outpaces the lifespan of a TV’s integrated software.

The Modern Solution: External Streaming Devices – Breathing New Life into Your Viera

For the vast majority of Panasonic Viera owners looking to access modern streaming services and a robust internet experience, the undeniable best solution is an external streaming device. This is where your Viera truly shines again, transforming from an aging “smart” TV into a fantastic display for a cutting-edge media hub.

Why External Devices are Superior:

• Up-to-Date Apps: These devices are dedicated to streaming and receive regular software updates, ensuring access to the latest versions of all popular streaming apps.
• Superior Performance: They have dedicated processors, more RAM, and optimized software for smooth navigation and seamless streaming in high definition or even 4K (if your Viera is 4K capable, which is rare for older models, but the device can still deliver HD).
• User-Friendly Interfaces: Modern streaming devices offer intuitive, customizable home screens and search functions.
• Wider Content Selection: Access to thousands of apps, games, and content beyond just major streaming platforms.
• Future-Proofing (within reason): When a streaming stick gets old, you simply replace it, keeping your beloved Viera as the display.
• Enhanced Features: Many offer voice control, screen mirroring from phones, and integration with smart home ecosystems.

Popular External Streaming Devices:

The market is rich with excellent choices, each with its own ecosystem and strengths. Here are some of the front-runners:

• Roku (Roku Express, Streaming Stick, Ultra): Known for its simple, neutral interface and extensive app library. Great for users who want straightforward access to everything.
• Amazon Fire TV Stick (Lite, 4K, 4K Max): Integrates deeply with Amazon services (Prime Video, Alexa) and offers a vast app selection. Good for Amazon ecosystem users.
• Google Chromecast (with Google TV): Powered by Google TV, it offers a personalized content-first interface, excellent Google Assistant integration, and allows casting from phones/tablets.
• Apple TV (HD, 4K): Premium experience, especially for those invested in the Apple ecosystem (Apple Arcade, Apple Fitness+, AirPlay). Higher price point.
• NVIDIA Shield TV: A more powerful, enthusiast-grade Android TV device, ideal for gamers and advanced users seeking the best performance and features.

Here’s a quick comparison of some popular options suitable for most Viera TVs:

How to Connect an External Streaming Device to Your Viera:

1. Choose Your Device: Select a streaming stick or box that fits your budget and needs.
2. Locate an HDMI Port: Your Panasonic Viera TV will have multiple HDMI ports (usually labeled HDMI 1, HDMI 2, etc.) on the back or side. Most streaming devices connect via HDMI.
3. Plug It In: Connect the streaming device to an available HDMI port on your TV.
4. Provide Power: Most streaming sticks require external power. Plug the device’s USB power cable into a power adapter (usually included) and then into a wall outlet. Some TVs have a powered USB port that can power the stick directly, but a wall adapter is generally more reliable.
5. Select Input: Turn on your Viera TV. Using your TV remote, press the Input, Source, or TV/Video button to switch to the HDMI input where your streaming device is connected.
6. Initial Setup: Follow the on-screen instructions from the streaming device itself. This will typically involve connecting it to your home Wi-Fi network (the streaming device uses its own Wi-Fi, not your Viera’s), logging into your streaming accounts, and setting up any preferences.

Once set up, your Panasonic Viera TV becomes a beautiful display for a cutting-edge internet experience, completely bypassing its own outdated smart features. It’s like giving an old car a brand-new engine – the chassis is still classic, but the performance is modern.

Troubleshooting Common Internet Connection Issues with Viera (and External Devices)

Even with the best intentions, technology can throw curveballs. Here are some common issues and how to tackle them:

1. “No Internet Connection” or “Cannot Connect to Network”

• Check Cables (Wired): Ensure the Ethernet cable is securely plugged into both the TV/streaming device and the router. Try a different cable if possible.
• Verify Wi-Fi Password: Double-check that you’re entering the correct Wi-Fi password. It’s case-sensitive.
• Restart Everything: The classic IT solution – power cycle your TV, streaming device, and especially your router and modem. Unplug them from power for 30 seconds, then plug them back in, starting with the modem, then router, then TV/device.
• Router Proximity: If using Wi-Fi, ensure your TV or streaming device isn’t too far from your Wi-Fi router, or that there aren’t too many physical obstructions (thick walls, large appliances).
• Router Settings: Occasionally, router settings like MAC address filtering might block new devices. Check your router’s manual or settings page if you suspect this.

2. Slow Streaming or Frequent Buffering

• Check Internet Speed: Use a speed test tool on a phone or computer connected to the same Wi-Fi network to see if your internet service is performing as expected.
• Minimize Network Congestion: If multiple devices are actively streaming, gaming, or downloading on your network, it can hog bandwidth. Try pausing other activities.
• Optimize Wi-Fi Signal:
  • Move the router closer to the TV/device if possible.
  • Ensure the router is in an open, central location, not tucked away in a cabinet.
  • Consider using the 5GHz band on your Wi-Fi network (if your router and device support it) for less interference, though its range is shorter than 2.4GHz.
• Consider Wired: For external streaming devices, if consistent buffering is an issue, a simple Ethernet adapter for the device (if available and compatible) can make a huge difference.
• Clear Cache (Streaming Device): On external streaming devices, sometimes clearing the cache of a specific app can help with performance issues. (Check device-specific instructions.)

3. Wi-Fi Network Not Appearing in List

• Verify Router is Broadcasting: Ensure your Wi-Fi router is turned on and broadcasting its SSID.
• Hidden Network: If your Wi-Fi network is hidden, you’ll need to manually enter its name (SSID) on the TV/device.
• Frequency Band: Older Viera TVs or dongles might only support 2.4GHz Wi-Fi. If your router is exclusively broadcasting 5GHz, you’ll need to enable 2.4GHz.

4. Viera Connect/Old Apps Not Working

• This is normal. As discussed, many legacy smart TV apps are no longer supported by their developers. Don’t waste too much time troubleshooting these. Embrace an external streaming device!
• Firmware Update (Last Ditch Effort for Native Apps): While unlikely to fix app support issues, ensuring your Viera’s firmware is up-to-date can sometimes resolve general bugs or improve network stability. Check Panasonic’s support website for your specific model number. Firmware updates usually involve downloading a file to a USB stick and then plugging it into the TV.

Optimizing Your Home Network for Streaming Bliss

A good internet connection to your Viera (or its attached streaming device) is only as good as your home network. Here are some pointers to ensure a smooth, enjoyable streaming experience:

• Router Placement is Key: Place your Wi-Fi router in a central location, away from obstructions like thick walls, large metal objects, and other electronics that can cause interference (cordless phones, microwaves, baby monitors). Elevating it helps signal dispersion.
• Prioritize Bandwidth: If you have multiple users and devices, consider quality of service (QoS) settings on your router, which allow you to prioritize traffic for your streaming device. This ensures your movie doesn’t buffer just because someone else started a big download.
• Consider a Mesh Wi-Fi System: For larger homes or those with dead zones, a mesh Wi-Fi system can provide more consistent coverage than a single router, ensuring a strong signal reaches your TV.
• Update Router Firmware: Just like your TV, routers also get firmware updates that can improve performance, stability, and security. Check your router manufacturer’s website.
• Ethernet Where Possible: For external streaming devices, if you have the option, a wired Ethernet connection will almost always provide the most consistent and highest-quality stream. Some streaming devices even offer USB-to-Ethernet adapters if they don’t have a built-in port.

Security Best Practices for Your Connected TV Ecosystem

While an older Viera might not pose a huge security risk itself due to its limited functionality, any device connected to your home network, especially modern streaming sticks, should be secured.

• Strong Wi-Fi Password: This is fundamental. Use a long, complex password for your home Wi-Fi network, combining upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
• Keep Streaming Devices Updated: External streaming devices receive regular software updates. Install these promptly, as they often include security patches.
• Review Privacy Settings: Most smart TVs and streaming devices collect some user data. Take a few minutes to go through their privacy settings and disable anything you’re uncomfortable with.
• Use Guest Wi-Fi (Optional): If your router supports it, setting up a separate guest Wi-Fi network for visitors keeps your main network more secure.

The Evolution of Panasonic Viera: A Brief Retrospective

Panasonic’s Viera line, particularly their plasma TVs, were once legendary for their incredible picture quality, deep blacks, and natural color reproduction. When the shift towards “smart” features began, Panasonic, like many manufacturers, developed its own proprietary platform: Viera Connect (and before that, Viera Cast). These platforms were innovative for their time, offering early access to services like YouTube, Netflix (in some regions), and other niche apps.

However, the rapid pace of internet technology and app development proved to be a double-edged sword. Maintaining and updating these proprietary systems required significant investment from TV manufacturers and ongoing commitment from app developers. As the market consolidated around more open and standardized smart TV platforms (like Android TV, Roku OS, or Tizen/WebOS from other brands), supporting older, bespoke systems became unsustainable. This is why many Viera Connect apps withered on the vine, much to the chagrin of users who bought into the “smart” promise. It’s not a flaw in the Viera’s display technology – which remains excellent for many older models – but rather a natural consequence of software obsolescence in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Understanding this history helps contextualize why an external streaming device is often the pragmatic and superior solution today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Connecting Panasonic Viera to the Internet

Can I download new apps directly onto my old Panasonic Viera TV?

Unfortunately, for most older Panasonic Viera TVs, the ability to download new, modern apps is severely limited or nonexistent. The “smart” functionality on these sets was powered by platforms like Viera Connect or Viera Cast. These proprietary systems were developed by Panasonic and relied on app developers to create and maintain specific versions of their applications for that platform.

Over time, as the technology evolved and newer, more open smart TV operating systems emerged (like Android TV, Roku OS, or WebOS), developers ceased supporting the older, less prevalent Viera platforms. This means that even if an app existed on Viera Connect years ago, it’s highly likely it no longer receives updates, or the service it connects to has changed in a way that makes the old app incompatible. New, popular streaming services like Disney+, Max, or Peacock were never developed for these older Viera platforms at all. For modern app access, an external streaming device is essentially a necessity.

Why are my Viera Connect apps not working, even though my TV is connected to the internet?

The issue of non-working Viera Connect apps, despite a successful internet connection, stems primarily from the obsolescence of the Viera Connect platform itself. There are a few key reasons for this widespread problem:

Firstly, lack of developer support. App developers, driven by market share and cost-effectiveness, prioritize platforms with the largest user bases. As Viera Connect’s user base for new app downloads diminished, most developers stopped updating their apps for the platform, or removed them entirely. Secondly, API changes and backend updates. Streaming services constantly update their Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) and backend infrastructure. The older Viera Connect apps are simply not designed to communicate with these newer systems, leading to errors, infinite loading screens, or complete failure to launch. Finally, firmware limitations. The underlying operating system and browser technology on older Viera TVs are not updated to modern web standards, which can cause compatibility issues with current streaming protocols and security certificates.

Think of it like trying to run a brand-new, graphically intensive computer game on a computer from 2005. Even if the computer can connect to the internet, its hardware and software are simply too old to handle the demands of the modern application. For reliable streaming, an external device with up-to-date software is the definitive solution.

Is it worth buying an old Panasonic Viera TV now for its smart features?

Generally, no, it is absolutely not worth buying an old Panasonic Viera TV specifically for its built-in smart features. While many older Viera plasma and higher-end LCD TVs offered fantastic picture quality for their time, their “smart” capabilities are almost entirely defunct by modern standards. You would be purchasing a TV with essentially zero useful integrated smart functionality.

However, if you can find an older Viera in good condition at a very low price, and your primary goal is to use it as an excellent display for an external streaming device, then it might be a worthwhile purchase. Many Viera models still offer superb color reproduction, deep blacks (especially plasmas), and good motion handling, making them great monitors for a Roku, Fire TV Stick, or Apple TV. But to reiterate, the decision to buy should be solely based on its display quality and price as a “dumb” screen, with the full expectation that you will need a separate device for any internet-based content.

What’s the best external streaming device to use with my Panasonic Viera TV?

The “best” external streaming device for your Panasonic Viera TV largely depends on your specific needs, budget, and existing digital ecosystem. Since most Viera TVs are HD (1080p) rather than 4K, you generally won’t need the absolute top-tier 4K-capable devices unless you plan to use it with a future 4K TV as well. Here are some tailored recommendations:

• For Simplicity and Budget: A Roku Express or Roku Streaming Stick Lite (if available) is an excellent choice. They are inexpensive, incredibly easy to set up, offer a vast library of apps, and provide a straightforward user interface that anyone can navigate.
• For Amazon Users and Voice Control: An Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite or Fire TV Stick (standard HD version) would be ideal. If you’re a Prime subscriber, it integrates seamlessly with Prime Video, and the Alexa voice remote is a handy feature.
• For Google Ecosystem Users and Casting: The Chromecast with Google TV (HD version) is fantastic. It provides a personalized content experience, integrates well with Google services, and offers excellent casting capabilities from your phone or tablet.
• For Premium Experience (if budget allows): If your Viera is a high-quality 1080p set and you want the absolute smoothest experience and are invested in the Apple ecosystem, an Apple TV HD is an option, though it’s typically pricier and might be overkill for a non-4K TV.

Ultimately, any modern streaming device from a reputable brand will be a massive upgrade over your Viera’s native smart features and will transform your TV into a capable entertainment hub. Just ensure it has an HDMI output, which virtually all current streaming devices do.

Will a firmware update enable internet connectivity on my non-smart Panasonic Viera TV?

No, a firmware update will not enable internet connectivity on a Panasonic Viera TV that was not originally designed with the necessary hardware for networking. Firmware updates are software patches that fix bugs, improve performance, or add minor features to existing hardware. They cannot magically add an Ethernet port, a Wi-Fi chip, or the underlying network processing capabilities if those components were not built into the TV from the factory.

If your Viera TV never had a “Network” menu section or physical Ethernet/USB ports for a Wi-Fi dongle, then it simply lacks the hardware for internet connectivity. In such cases, your only route to internet streaming is through an external streaming device connected via HDMI, which will use its own internal Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection to access the internet, independent of the Viera TV’s non-existent networking capabilities.