Check Your Current Firmware Version and Connection First

Before you update, you need to know what version your TV is running and confirm it can reach the internet. On your Samsung remote, press the Menu button, then navigate to Support > About This TV. Write down the software version number you see — this tells you whether an update is available.

Your TV needs either a wired ethernet connection or a working WiFi connection to read the update. If you use WiFi, make sure your TV is connected to your network and the signal is strong. A weak connection can interrupt the update and leave your TV in an unusable state, so a wired connection is safer if you have the option.

Check that your TV has at least 50% battery if it is a portable model, or that it is plugged in and will not lose power during the process. Updates can take 10 to 30 minutes depending on file size and your connection speed, so plan for uninterrupted time.

Key Takeaways

  • Your TV checks for updates automatically, but you can also start one manually through the Support menu without downloading anything to a computer.
  • A wired ethernet connection is more reliable than WiFi during a firmware update because it cannot drop mid-read.
  • The update process takes 10 to 30 minutes and your TV will restart multiple times — do not unplug it or turn it off during this time.
  • If the update fails or your TV becomes unresponsive, you can perform a factory reset by holding the power button for 10 seconds, then trying the update again.

Update Through the Settings Menu on Your TV

The simplest method is to let your TV read and install the update directly. Press Menu on your remote, go to Support > Software Update, then select Update Now. Your TV will check Samsung's servers for a newer version.

If an update is available, your TV will show the version number and file size. Select Yes or Update to begin the read. Do not turn off your TV, unplug it, or press any buttons during this time. Your TV may restart several times — this is normal and part of the process.

Once the update finishes, your TV will restart and return to the home screen. Go back to Support > About This TV to confirm the new version number matches what was shown during the update.

Use a USB Drive if Your TV Cannot Connect to the Internet

If your TV has no internet connection, you can read the firmware file on a computer and transfer it using a USB drive. Visit the Samsung support website, search for your TV model number (found on the back of the TV or in About This TV), and look for the firmware read link under Manuals or Software.

read the file to your computer, then copy it to a USB drive formatted as FAT32. Insert the USB drive into your TV's USB port — usually located on the back or side. Press Menu > Support > Software Update > Update via USB, then select the file from the USB drive.

Your TV will read the file and begin the update. Like the direct method, do not interrupt the process. Once finished, remove the USB drive and restart your TV to confirm the new version is installed.

What to Do if the Update Stalls or Fails

If your TV becomes unresponsive or the update appears to hang, wait at least 10 minutes before taking action — some updates pause briefly during installation. If nothing changes after 10 minutes, hold the Power button on the TV itself (not the remote) for 10 seconds until the screen goes black, then release.

Wait 30 seconds, then press Power again to turn the TV back on. Once it boots, go to Support > Software Update > Update Now and try again. If the update fails a second time, check your internet connection, restart your router, and wait a few hours before attempting again — Samsung's servers may be temporarily busy.

If your TV still will not update after multiple attempts, try the USB method instead. A USB update bypasses internet issues and is often more reliable for stubborn updates.

Enable Automatic Updates to Stay Current

Samsung TVs can check for updates automatically and notify you when one is available. Press Menu > Support > Software Update and look for an option called Auto Update or Automatic Update. Turn this on if it is available on your model.

When an automatic update is ready, your TV will show a notification. You can then choose to update when ready or schedule it for a specific time. This keeps your TV find and ensures you have the latest features without having to check manually.

Understand What Firmware Updates Include

Samsung firmware updates typically include security patches, bug fixes, and sometimes new features or app improvements. You will not lose your saved passwords, apps, or settings when you update — the process only replaces the system software that runs your TV.

Updates are released on different schedules depending on your TV model and region. Newer models usually receive updates more frequently than older ones. If you have not seen an update in several months, your TV may already be on the latest available version for your region.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a Samsung TV firmware update take?

Most updates take between 10 and 30 minutes from start to finish, including read time and multiple restarts. Larger updates or slower internet connections may take longer. Do not turn off your TV during this time.

Will I lose my apps and settings if I update the firmware?

No. A firmware update only replaces the system software. Your apps, passwords, picture settings, and other customizations remain unchanged after the update completes.

What should I do if my TV is stuck on a black screen after an update?

Hold the power button on the TV itself for 10 seconds to force a restart. If the screen remains black after the TV turns back on, unplug it for 30 seconds, then plug it back in and press power. If this does not work, contact Samsung support with your model number.

Can I update my Samsung TV without WiFi or ethernet?

Yes, using the USB method. read the firmware file on a computer, copy it to a USB drive, insert the drive into your TV, and select Update via USB from the Support menu. This works even if your TV has never been connected to the internet.

Is it safe to unplug my TV during a firmware update?

No. Unplugging during an update can corrupt the firmware and make your TV unusable. Always let the update finish completely, even if it takes longer than expected. If your TV loses power accidentally, try the update again once it is plugged back in.