What is DLNA and How to Use it？

Introduction

Have you ever wanted to stream a video directly from your phone to a large screen without needing to find cables or deal with complex setups? This is where DLNA comes in; it works covertly in the background, enabling your devices to communicate with one another via Wi-Fi, allowing you to quickly share videos, music, or photos.

This article explores DLNA—what it is, how it works, its certification standards, and its evolution into modern use. We’ll also show you how to set up a DLNA network, the top devices and apps that support it, and how to solve common issues and privacy concerns. Keep reading for a complete guide to DLNA.

Table of Contents

1. What is the DLNA?

DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) is a set of standards that enable devices such as smart TVs, computers, smartphones, projectors, and gaming consoles to connect and share media files—such as photos, videos, and music—over the same Wi-Fi network. While the acronym sounds technical, the concept is simple: once DLNA is enabled, devices can automatically discover each other and stream content seamlessly. And DLNA-certified devices ensure reliable communication and compatibility, providing a smoother and more dependable user experience.

2. How does the DLNA Work？

Devices linked to the same local network are given two roles via DLNA:

• DLNA Server

The device that stores and distributes media is called a DLNA server. It may be a dedicated NAS (Network Attached Storage) disk, your phone, or your laptop.

• DLNA Client

The shared content is received and played on this device. Consider smart TVs or bright projectors.

Compliant clients can find the DLNA server once both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. After browsing the media that the server has shared, the client starts playing it. Its value lies in the fact that it requires no additional apps or accounts; all you need to do is activate media sharing. Setup rarely requires more than a few clicks because the majority of modern operating systems support DLNA either natively or through lightweight applications.

3. DLNA Certification Guidelines

To ensure compatibility across various manufacturers and platforms, DLNA introduced a certification process. Devices with the DLNA Certified mark have gone through standardised testing to ensure easy compatibility with other certified goods, notably for media sharing across networks.

Certification not only verifies a device’s ability to stream media but also assesses its support for common audio, video, and image formats, as well as its compatibility with both wired and wireless local networks. Regarding security, certification requires devices to have basic media-sharing protection mechanisms, while more advanced content copyright protection typically relies on specialized technologies.

Figure 1-DLNA Certification Guidelines

• Certified Device Categories

DLNA groups certified devices based on their purpose within the network. These include a DLNA Media Server to store and share material, a DLNA Media Renderer to play the material, such as a smart TV, and a DLNA Controller that sends commands from the server to the renderer, such as a smartphone or tablet.

4. DLNA’s Evolution and Modern Role

In the early 2010s, when home networks were only beginning to become more intelligent and media sharing seemed like a new technological luxury, DLNA was more widely used. Although some thought it would become obsolete as Bluetooth, AirPlay, and casting apps became more popular, DLNA has subtly remained relevant and unexpectedly helpful.

Because DLNA is simple, does not require additional software, and functions consistently across platforms, many modern smart devices still accept it.

Figure2-home network

5. How to Set Up a DLNA Network?

Configuring a DLNA network is simple and doesn’t require much technical skill. First, ensure your devices—such as your TV, laptop, or NAS—support the DLNA/UPnP protocol (official certification helps but isn’t strictly necessary). All devices must be connected to the same local network.

• On Windows: Open Control Panel → Network and Sharing Centre → Media Streaming Options. Enable streaming and choose the folders to share. Your PC now acts as a DLNA server (check firewall settings if needed).
  

• On Android: Some phones include built-in DLNA or media sharing under Settings. If not, you can install third-party apps (like BubbleUPnP). Then select your DLNA client to start streaming.
  

• On macOS/iOS: Apple doesn’t natively support DLNA, but third-party apps like VLC or AirPlayer can share and stream content over the local network.

6. Top Devices and Apps That Support DLNA Streaming 

Many modern devices continue to support DLNA natively or through apps. Here are some of the most reliable options:

• CZUR StarryHub 

CZUR StarryHub natively supports the DLNA protocol, allowing users to wirelessly cast photos, videos, documents, and other content from their smartphones, tablets, or computers to a large screen over the same Wi-Fi network, without the need for extra apps or cable connections.

In addition to DLNA, StarryHub also supports multiple wireless casting protocols such as Miracast, AirPlay, and wireless HDMI, ensuring compatibility across Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android platforms. Whether for business presentations, team collaboration, or classroom teaching, users can establish a stable wireless connection with just a few taps and enjoy smooth screen sharing.

This functionality not only improves casting efficiency but also eliminates the hassle of messy cabling, keeping meeting rooms and classrooms neat and organized. 

Figure 3- StarryHub-DLNA protocol

• Sony and LG Smart TVs

Most mid- to high-end devices from Sony and LG continue to have native DLNA capabilities. This makes it easy for customers to wirelessly stream videos, music, and photographs from their cellphones, tablets, or PCs right to the TV using Wi-Fi. For users who prefer a plug-and-play experience without extra apps, DLNA is still one of the simplest methods available.

• VLC Media Player

VLC isn’t just a reliable media player; it also functions as a DLNA-compatible server and client. Available on Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android, it allows users to stream local media files to DLNA-certified devices with minimal setup. 

• Plex Media Server

Plex has become a go-to platform for managing personal media libraries, and it still supports DLNA as a way to reach older or more universal devices. You may deliver movies, TV shows, music, and images to any DLNA-enabled TV, console, or speaker.

7. Troubleshooting DLNA: Common Errors and Privacy Risks

Here are some tips for troubleshooting common errors with DLNA:

• Devices Not Detecting the DLNA Server

Even though everything appears to be connected, occasionally your TV or speaker may not be able to identify the DLNA server. This typically occurs when your firewall is secretly restricting traffic or when devices are on different networks. Verify that your firewall or antivirus software is not interfering and that all of the devices are connected to the same network.

• Wi-Fi Setup and Security Gaps

Due to DLNA’s dependence on your local network, an unprotected Wi-Fi connection may invite unauthorised access. A nearby person could access your media files if the password for your home or office network is weak or out of date. It is crucial to change your router’s credentials and, if necessary, conceal your network name.

• Unrestricted Media Sharing

Some DLNA servers may share your entire library over the network by default. This may be a privacy concern, particularly in public settings like workplaces or schools. Use the server settings to restrict access by device and select which files or folders are visible in order to maintain control.

8. FAQs of  DLNA Network

1. What does DLNA do?

Videos, music, and images can all be streamed between devices connected to the same network thanks to DLNA. For instance, you can use a wireless speaker to play music from your phone or watch a movie that is stored on your laptop straight on your smart TV.

2. Can DLNA run over Wi-Fi?

Yes, as long as every device is linked to the same local network, DLNA functions flawlessly via Wi-Fi. Simply connect and stream without the need for cords.

3. Should I keep DLNA turned on?

Turning off DLNA is a smart option if you are not using it frequently, especially on a public or shared network, to lower potential security issues. You can leave it on when you need to in a private residence.

4. Is using a DLNA server secure?

As long as your Wi-Fi network is secure, using DLNA servers is safe. Make sure your router firmware is up to date, use a strong password, and pay attention to the devices that are connected.

5. Does DLNA work with iPhones?

With the aid of third-party apps, it is possible to utilise DLNA on an iPhone. To stream content from your iPhone to other DLNA-capable devices, simply ensure that all devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network and utilise an app that is compatible with it.

Conclusion

DLNA is a simple and effective technology that enables seamless sharing and streaming of multimedia content across compatible devices on the same network. Despite the emergence of many new streaming technologies, DLNA remains widely used due to its ease of use, strong cross-platform compatibility, and lack of need for additional software. Whether for home entertainment, business meetings, or educational settings, DLNA provides a reliable and practical solution for wireless content transmission.