All types of Tablo DVRs have the option of being connected to your network either on Ethernet or on Wi-Fi.
Generally speaking, a hardwired Ethernet connection will provide a faster and more reliable experience.
However, an Ethernet connection is not always possible.
For example, your router may not be reachable with an Ethernet cable if your Tablo is located far away - usually due to antenna placement. In this event, you can add your Tablo to your Wi-Fi network.
You only need to add your Tablo to your Wi-Fi network once. Once it has been added, all of your devices will be able to access your Tablo.
Based on the type of Tablo you have and the devices/application you are using, select the relevant guide below.
4th Generation Tablo DVRs:
Legacy Network-Connected Tablo DVRs:
- Connecting Tablo to Wi-Fi with PC
- Connecting Tablo to Wi-Fi while on Ethernet (iOS only)
- Connecting Tablo to Wi-Fi With iOS 13+
- Connecting Tablo via Wi-Fi With a Temporary Ethernet Connection (Android 10+ Mobile)
- Instructions for connecting Tablo to Wi-Fi with Android 9 (and below)
- How To Change or Edit your Tablo's Wi-Fi Network
Legacy TV-Connected Tablo DVRs:
When Setting Up Wi-Fi Goes Wrong
Ensure an Ethernet Cable and/or USB Hard Drive are Not Attached To Your Tablo
When an Ethernet cable is attached to your Ethernet port, your Tablo's Wi-Fi is disabled.
We recommend not connecting a USB hard drive to your Tablo until our app suggests you do so.
See If Any Other Device Is On Your Wi-Fi Network
If all your Wi-Fi devices (computers, smartphones, tablets etc) have also, and suddenly, lost Wi-Fi connection, the issue may be with your router. See Troubleshooting Your Router below.
Verify Your SSID and Password Are Correct
Double-check your Wi-Fi router's name (SSID) and password.
When you enter the Wi-Fi password into your Tablo app, click the eye icon in the right edge of the text box to show you what you're typing in, that way you can be sure your password is correct.
Reboot Your Tablo
Quickly press and release your Tablo's reset button. You can find it on the bottom of the 4th Generation Tablo. It's on the back, top-right side of our legacy network-connected models. The LED will blink very quickly, once it begins pulsing slowly you'll be ready to try setting up your Wi-Fi connection again.
Switch Off Your Cell's Cellular Data
Your smartphone or tablet must connect via Wi-Fi to set up your Tablo. If you're connected via cellular data instead, then you might be missing Wi-Fi altogether. In that regard, in your phone or tablet's settings, switch off your cellular data and verify that only Wi-Fi is enabled.
Move Your Tablo Closer To Your Wi-Fi Router
If you live in a large home, your Tablo may be simply out of range of your router. Try moving it closer.
Try A Different Wi-Fi Band
If your Wi-Fi router is dual-band (most are), you may want to try connecting to the 2.4 Ghz band as it's better for longer distances.
If your Tablo is very close to your router, go for 5 GHz instead. That frequency is excellent over short distances.
Troubleshooting Your Router
If nothing seems to work, attempt the following:
- Disconnect the power from your router. Wait three minutes and plug it back in.
- If that fails, contact your ISP or the router's manufacturer.
If the issue is that you cannot connect your smartphone or tablet to Tablo_XXXX, contact Tablo Support instead.