Samsung TVs update firmware through the Settings menu, usually without needing a USB drive or computer
Most Samsung TVs can read and install firmware updates directly over your home internet connection. The process takes 10 to 30 minutes depending on your internet speed and the update size. Your TV will restart automatically during the update, so plan for a window when you won't need to watch.
The exact menu path depends on your TV model year, but the general route is Settings > Support > Software Update. Some older models use Settings > System > Software Update instead. Once you find the Software Update option, your TV checks Samsung's servers for new versions and installs any available updates automatically.
Key Takeaways
- Access Software Update through Settings > Support or Settings > System, depending on your TV's age and model.
- Your TV needs an active internet connection — either wired Ethernet or Wi-Fi — to read and install updates.
- The update process takes 10 to 30 minutes and your TV will restart automatically; do not unplug it during this time.
- If your TV cannot find updates over the internet, you can read firmware manually to a USB drive using a computer and install it through the USB port.
- Check for updates at least once a month, as Samsung releases security patches and feature improvements on a rolling schedule.
Finding the Software Update Menu on Your TV
Start by pressing the Home button on your remote to open the main menu. Navigate to Settings — this is usually a gear icon in the top right or bottom left of the menu, depending on your model year. Once inside Settings, look for Support or System. The menu structure changed around 2019, so older TVs use System while newer ones use Support.
Inside Support (or System), scroll down until you see Software Update or Update Software. Select it and your TV will when ready begin checking for new firmware versions. Do not close this menu or turn off the TV while it is checking — this usually takes 30 seconds to 2 minutes. If your TV finds an update, it will show you the version number and file size before asking you to confirm the installation.
Installing Updates Over Your Internet Connection
Your TV must be connected to the internet — either through Wi-Fi or an Ethernet cable plugged into the back of the set. If you are using Wi-Fi, make sure your TV is already connected to your home network before you start. You can check this in Settings > Network or Settings > Connection. If you have not connected your TV to Wi-Fi yet, do that first, then return to Software Update.
When you select Install or Update, your TV downloads the firmware file and begins the installation process. The screen will show a progress bar. During this time, your TV may go black, display a loading animation, or show a percentage counter. This is normal. The entire process — read plus installation — usually takes 10 to 30 minutes depending on your internet speed and the update file size.
Your TV will restart automatically when the update is complete. It may restart multiple times. Do not unplug the TV, press buttons on the remote, or interrupt the process. If the power goes out during an update, your TV may fail to boot properly, and you may need to contact Samsung support or visit a service center.
What to Do If Your TV Cannot Find Updates Online
If your TV shows "No updates available" but you believe a newer version exists, your internet connection may be the issue. Check that your TV is still connected to Wi-Fi or Ethernet by going to Settings > Network > Network Status. If the connection shows as connected, try unplugging your router for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in. Wait for your router to fully restart, then return to Software Update and check again.
If your TV still cannot find updates and you have confirmed the internet connection is working, you can read firmware manually using a computer. Visit the Samsung support website, search for your TV model number (found on the back of the TV or in Settings > About), and look for the firmware read link. read the file to a USB drive formatted as FAT32, insert the USB drive into your TV's USB port, then go to Settings > Support > Software Update and select the USB option instead of the automatic update option.
Restarting Your TV After a Firmware Update
After the update completes and your TV restarts, it may take a few minutes to fully boot up. You may see a black screen, a Samsung logo, or a loading spinner. This is normal and does not mean anything went wrong. Wait at least 5 minutes before pressing any buttons or unplugging the TV.
Once your TV is fully on, check that your picture and sound are working normally. If you notice any unusual behavior — no picture, no sound, or a frozen menu — try unplugging the TV for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in. This performs a soft reset and often resolves temporary issues after an update. If problems persist, contact Samsung support with your TV model number and the firmware version you just installed (found in Settings > Support > About This TV).
How Often to Check for Updates
Samsung releases firmware updates on a rolling schedule throughout the year. Some updates are security patches that fix vulnerabilities, while others add new features or improve performance. There is no single date when all updates roll out — different regions and models receive updates at different times.
Check for updates at least once a month by going to Settings > Support > Software Update. If you want your TV to check automatically, some Samsung models have an option for automatic updates in the Software Update menu. Enable this if it is available on your model, and your TV will read and install updates overnight when you are not using it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Firmware Updates
The most dangerous mistake is unplugging your TV or losing power during an update. If the power cuts out mid-installation, your TV's firmware can become corrupted, and the TV may not turn on at all. If this happens, you will need to contact Samsung or visit an authorized service center. Always make sure your TV is plugged into a working outlet and that your home's power is stable before starting an update.
Another common mistake is closing the Settings menu or pressing buttons on the remote while the update is running. Your TV needs to complete the read and installation without interruption. Even if the screen goes black or seems frozen, the update is likely still running in the background. Wait at least 30 minutes before assuming something went wrong.
Do not unplug your router or disconnect your internet during an update if you are using an online update. If your internet drops mid-read, your TV will usually pause and resume when the connection returns. However, if the connection is unstable, the read may fail and you will need to start over.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know what firmware version my TV currently has?
Go to Settings > Support > About This TV (or Settings > System > About on older models). The firmware version is listed as Software Version or Firmware Version. Write down this number so you can confirm whether a new update is actually newer than what you have installed.
Can I use my TV while it is updating?
No. Your TV will be unavailable during the entire update process, which can take 10 to 30 minutes. The screen will show a progress bar or loading animation. Plan your update for a time when you do not need to watch television.
What if the update fails partway through?
If the read fails, your TV will usually show an error message and return to the Software Update menu. Try checking for updates again — your TV will resume the read from where it left off. If the installation fails after the read completes, try unplugging the TV for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in and checking for updates again.
Do I need to connect my TV to the internet permanently to get updates?
No. Your TV only needs an internet connection when you are actively downloading and installing an update. After the update is complete, you can disconnect the Ethernet cable or forget the Wi-Fi network if you prefer. However, keeping your TV connected makes it easier to check for updates regularly.
Can I update my Samsung TV using a mobile phone hotspot?
Yes, but it is not recommended. Firmware files are large and mobile hotspots can be unstable. If the connection drops during the read, the update may fail. If you must use a hotspot, make sure you have a strong signal and that your phone's data plan has enough remaining data for the file size (usually 500 MB to 2 GB depending on the update).