Homegroup file sharing not working on smart tv(s)

[bdl1989]

I have set up a homegroup, and allowed sharing my music, video and photo libraries to all devices on my network. However, the files are only accessible on the other laptop on the network, and not on my network capable panasonic bluray player, as well as my Sony Bravia Internet TV. We recently moved, and could access the files on my Internet TV before. However, on this network they won't. I've attached a screenshot, showing these devices have access to the files I've shared. However, they don't show up on the Sony TV, or the TV attached the the Bluray player.

 

[bdl1989]

and yes, before anybody asks, the media server laptop IS awake

 

[broe23]

That is because Smart TV's cannot use Homegroup. You need to just use regular Workgroup. Also it is better if you place items you want to share with the tv in the "Public" folders. Also make sure that if you have the Firewall enabled while on your network, set it to "Off" for "Private" networks.

Also make sure that your computer recognizes your personal network as a "Private" network. A lot of TV's, especially Sony, are particular to DRM protected files.

 

[bdl1989]

So, I tried sharing the files using workgroup method outlined here:

how to share folders on network in windows 8 step by step

Here is a screenshot showing the shared files on the network. "Users" contains the "Public" folder where I placed the music I want to share. Still no good, on the TV or Bluray player.



I am connected the network as a "Private" network, and tried disabling the firewall. No dice.

 

[broe23]

Then most likely it is the music format. What are the models of the tv & Blu-Ray players? What is the latest firmware updates? Have you tried using Twonky server to see if you can get the tv to see them that way? Do the TV & Blu-ray player show up in Devices & Printers, when on?

Also do you have the servers connected to the Blu-Ray & tv, when you go to the menu to see if the devices show them?

I no longer use my Blu-ray player for any streaming, since I have a Amazon Fire TV box. That is because Sony has gotten horrible in how they route Netflix & Amazon, along with other content through their proxy servers, which slows things down.

 

[bdl1989]

TV: 32 Inch TV - Best Bravia 32'' LED Internet TV - KDL32W650A - Sony US
Blu-ray player tied to separate TV: 32 Inch TV - Best Bravia 32'' LED Internet TV - KDL32W650A - Sony US

They both have the latest firmware updates installed. The TV and Blu-ray both show up in Devices and Printers, the TV as a "Device", and the Blu-ray as a "Multimedia Device". The server does not show up on the menu of either device--that is my issue.

Will try Twonky after work today, as I have never heard of it, and update.

 

[CountryBumkin]

Jus to add - did you go into the TVs menu/setup and check the network settings? See Playing Content on a PC