What is the DLNA feature and how does it work?

What is the DLNA feature?

Digital Living Network Alliance or DLNA-certified devices allow you to share content between devices around your house over your home Wi-Fi network. For example, you can set up your VAIO computer as a DLNA server and access music, video and photos on your TV. Sony makes various DLNA-certified devices, such as Blu-ray Disc players, televisions, computers, Sony smartphones, tablets and more.

NOTE: Not all Sony devices are DLNA compatible. Check the specifications or user manual of your device for DLNA compatibility information. Manuals are posted on our support website.

How does DLNA work?

DLNA compatible devices can be connected to a home network just like a computer or smartphone. Once the connection is established, you can browse selected folders on your media server PC right from your TV screen. You can select music to listen to, or photos and videos to watch.

A file sharing application, such as: Windows Media Player, VAIO Media server software, Serviio DLNA Media server, Twonky suite or EyeConnect UPnP AV Media Streaming Software, provides the interface between your TV and computer.

Music files are listed by title, artist, date of release and cover art, while photos are shown as thumbnails for quick selection. Videos are listed by file name. You can simply scroll to the desired music, video or photo file, then click on the file to listen to it or view it.

Learn how to set up a DLNA server.

What is required to view photos, videos or listen to music on a DLNA-enabled device?

The following is required to view photos, videos or listen to music on a DLNA-enabled device:

• An Active Network: The device must be connected using either a wired or wireless connection to your home high-speed Internet connection or to a Local Area Network (LAN).
• A DLNA Certified Digital Media Server: These devices store content and make it available to networked digital media players, personal computers and network attached storage devices (NAS).
• A DLNA Certified Digital Media Player or Client: These devices are able to find photos and videos from other DLNA Certified devices and play them on your TV, stereo system, home theater systems, Blu-ray Disc Players and game consoles.

NOTE: A Digital Media Controller can also be used as an optional device that finds content on digital media servers and plays it on digital media players. Some examples of these items are: Internet tablets, Wi-Fi enabled digital cameras and personal digital assistants (PDA). Learn more about DLNA and all its requirements.

Product-specific information

For product-specific information, click on the expandable sections below.

Televisions

Blu-ray Disc Player and Media Players

Home AV System and Network Speakers

Tablets