While there are many HD DVR receivers that DirecTV provides its consumers, the DirecTV Genie is the primary one. This is an advanced kind of technology that allows for the recording of as many as five programs simultaneously and in high definition. It also provides the On Demand service, applications like YouTube or Netflix, and more. But does it require the internet to run smoothly and perform the functions for which it was designed? Let’s take a look at these points one by one.
What is the Directv Genie?
The Genie or model HR44 is a high-definition digital video recorder that is considered the most elaborate of its kind by DIRECTV. It has several great features, including:
- Capture up to 5 shows simultaneously at a high definition.
- It can store up to 200 hours of recordings if done in the standard definition or 100 hours if done in high definition.
- The Genie Mini connected to any TV allows watching recorded shows of recorded shows.
- Watch DirecTV On Demand videos, programs, and other programs.
- Have control and organize recordings through a phone, tablet, or computer.
Given that an internet connection can be described as a portable supercomputer with enormous power and functionality, it could be arranged that the internet would help the Genie work even better. But is it required?
Does the Genie Need Internet for Recording Shows?
Another important that is accomplished by most DVRs is to record programs that are broadcast in real time. The good news is that you do not need a direct internet connection to set up the DIRECTV Genie to record the programs from the DIRECTV.
The Genie is designed to receive TV signals through your satellite dish without the use of additional wires. As long as you are receiving a clear signal with a well-aimed dish, the Genie can record live shows as any prior-generation DVR-equipped DIRECTV models do. The recording takes place at the dish and goes directly to the Genie and there is no requirement for going online.
This way, you are sure that the recordings will not be missed even if the Genie is not connected to the internet.
If so, the Genie may not require Internet to work with its On Demand or Apps services.
Yes, you don’t require the Internet to use a basic DVR, but you do need the Internet to access On Demand shows or programs or to get access to Internet services such as YouTube, Pandora, Netflix, and other similar services.
The Genie has a LAN port on the rear of the unit which should be connected to the home router via a standard Ethernet cable. This allows the Genie to access the internet and this entitles you to some apps and Directv on demand as well.
On-Demand content is categorized as an internet service yet it gives access to TV Shows and Movies. And that is the point, without that internet connection, all that great content would be inaccessible.
The good news is that for those interested in using this, the Genie is WiFi capable provided one uses the correct hardware. More on that next.
In conclusion, it is clear to see that the solution to the question ‘Can I Connect the Genie to WiFi?’ is a definite yes.
The Genie receiver is not equipped with the WiFi feature But, you can also incorporate the DIRECTV Wireless Genie Mini for the WiFi feature.
Specifically, the Wireless Genie Mini popularly known as the C41W is a client or an extender to the main Genie DVR. It links to your home WiFi network and relays that connection to the Genie thus linking it to your home network. This they can watch On Demand and apps without being connected to your router rather through the Genie itself.
And so if you do not have an Ethernet connection to connect to your Genie or if the connection is farther away from the Genie, then the Wireless Genie Mini is the perfect solution. It’s just as easy, plug it into a power outlet near the WiFi router and hook it up to the coax cable which leads to the Genie. Initially, setup only takes a few minutes then your Genie can benefit from your home WiFi.
Still, it should be mentioned that a wired connection is usually faster and more stable than a wireless connection. So if possible avoid using Wireless Mini on Genie and instead use the built-in Ethernet port of the Genie. Still, it is much better than if there were no wireless at all, and the Genie was not connected to it.
Do You Use the Internet to Make Genie Features and Performance Better?
While it’s not mandatory to have your Genie connected to the internet if you’re just using it for plain-vanilla DVR functions, it can enhance the process.
Here are some ways having internet speeds things up and enhances how you use the Genie:
- Updates on the On Demand content as well as applications are said to be quick.
- The telephone/tables should have the capacity to program the recording.
- The ability for one party to access recordings from a remote location when not at home
- Faster to start up and regain control when menus are being used
- The use of super-stable navigation and transition between the apps
All other functions that go beyond simple live TV recording would need an internet connection or perform optimally with it. It also ensures the Genie can update more securely and consistently so the latest features and software updates are ready for use.
Therefore, even though it is not mandatory to have your Genie activated and connected to the internet, it can add to the convenience and flexibility of the system in general.
Conclusion
The DIRECTV Genie seems to provide customers with immense flexibility regarding the viewing and recording of HD TV programs. Although some features, for example, recording live shows do not necessarily require an internet connection, it is without a doubt that an internet connection expands the experience you can get from the DIRECTV service.
Only with the Genie-connected online apps, On Demand and the other advanced control features are fully available. Therefore, it is recommended that you have your Genie router or Wireless Genie Mini connected during installation, even if all that is needed at the onset is the bare essentials such as live television. In general, adding connectivity after the fact is less desirable than having it from the start and securely integrated into the system.
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