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I've already told you the various uses of the USB ports that come standard on the back or side of any smart TV. In this article, I focus on a particularly important use: installing firmware updates using a USB device.
Updates are essential because they ensure your TV has the latest software, features, and security patches. Most smart TVs are designed to automatically check for and install updates over Wi-Fi -- as long as they're connected to the internet, and the automatic update feature is enabled. To confirm this, you can usually find a "Check for Updates" option in the TV's settings menu.
Also: How we test TVs at ZDNET in 2026
But if your TV has an unstable Wi-Fi connection -- or you simply prefer a manual approach -- the following is a walkthrough of how to use a USB drive to do the job.
1. Identify your TV's model number
Start by finding your TV's specific model number. It's usually on a sticker or label on the back of your set, which can often be tricky to read -- especially on a wall-mounted TV. Take a flashlight with you and jot down what you see on the sticker. Better yet, turn on your phone camera (with flash) to reach behind the TV and snap a picture of the sticker so you'll have the information forever.
You should also be able to find the model number in the TV's settings menu under the "About" or "Support" section.
2. Locate the firmware update
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