Today’s plasma, LED and LCD HDTVs do more than just let you watch your favorite programming. You may have an inkling of a notion that you can also use your television to surf the Web, connect to your home PC, and view photos and other digital files. After all, you recognize a USB port when you see one!

But how does your TV do all this? In many cases, it’s through a new protocol established by the DLNA, which stands for the Digital Living Network Alliance. This cross-industry organization of consumer electronics, computer industry and mobile electronics manufacturers has set certification standards for the way manufacturers design their electronics equipment, including HDTVs, to make wired or wireless connectivity easy.

When you purchase a DLNA-certified HDTV from a company like Samsung, your HDTV will easily connect to your home network — just like your desktop computer, notebook computer, or even your smartphone.
What Can You Do with a DLNA-Certified HDTV?

Once your new HDTV is online, you can use your remote control to connect to your home network, and browse selected folders to listen to music, watch videos, or gather the family around to view those vacation photos. If your home has a media server, your DLNA-certified HDTV will connect easily to it, giving you access to your entire library of movies and music with just a few clicks.
DLNA-certification is the new standard in home connectivity. Even if, for now, you think you’ll just be using your new HDTV to watch television or Blu-Ray disks, it pays to think and plan ahead. DLNA-certification ensures your new HDTV will grow as your family’s needs expand. Aren’t you ready for better digital living?