You'll need an internet connection to enjoy Roku's wide selection of TV shows, movies, and streaming content. So, how can you connect your Roku device to WiFi?
To connect your Roku TV or device to WiFi, navigate to Home > Settings > Network > Set Up Connection > Wireless. Select your network, type the password, and click Connect to finish. You can also connect to wifi via an Ethernet cable or a hotspot on your smartphone or computer.
Connecting to WiFi on Roku devices is straightforward and takes no time at all. Let's look at everything you need to know to get started in more detail.
Do You Need WiFi to Use Roku?
Yes, WiFi is required to use a Roku TV or device. Roku streaming devices require an internet connection to access streaming content, download new software, and display media on your television. Your Roku won't have access to any shows or movies, and its functionality will be limited without an internet connection.
That said, some Roku models include an Ethernet port, allowing you to connect to a wired connection. Ethernet connections are helpful, as they provide a reliable connection with incredible speed. Other Roku devices can use a mobile hotspot or smartphone tethering in place of WiFi.
How to Connect Your Roku Device to WiFi
Connecting your Roku TV or device to WiFi is a straightforward process. Besides the Roku itself, you'll need to follow the following:
- The Roku remote control
- A Router with Wired and Wireless options
- Your Network Password
Once you have everything you mentioned above, move on to the instructions below to connect your Roku TV or device to a WiFi connection.
Connecting to WiFi for the First Time
Now that you have your Roku powered on, you can use the following instructions to connect to a WiFi network.
- If you are setting up your Roku for the first time, you'll need to select between a Wired or Wireless connection. Select Wired if you are using an Ethernet connection. Otherwise, click Wireless to continue.
- The first time your Roku connects to a wireless connection, it will scan for nearby networks within its range.
- After the scan, select your wireless network from the list of options. If you can't find your home network, click ‘Scan Again‘ to find it once more.
- After you select your WiFi network, the Roku will determine if the connection is stable and working correctly.
- Afterward, your Roku will confirm the connection and prompt you for the network password.
- Enter the password in the field provided and confirm your choices with the ‘Connect‘ button.
- If this is the first time you are setting up your Roku, it will search for any software updates and install them automatically. It may reboot during the update process.
- Wait for the update to finish and continue with any on-screen prompts to finish setting up your Roku.
Pro-Tip: After you install apps on your Roku for the first time, they'll be up to date, but apps don't automatically update along with the Roku system, so you should consider individual Roku app updates if you have any issues.
Can You Connect Without a Remote?
Did you lose your Roku remote and need to connect to the internet? Fortunately, hope isn't lost, and you can use a WiFi hotspot to connect to your Roku. This method requires a smartphone and a computer or two smartphones.
Step 1: Create a WiFi Hotspot on Your Smartphone or PC
You will need to configure and activate a WiFi hotspot on your smartphone or computer. The steps will vary slightly depending on the device, but you typically navigate to Settings > WiFi> Hotspot and Tethering.
You will be prompted to set a Hotspot Name and Password. Ensure you use the same network name and passcode for the hotspot as the one to which your Roku was previously connected. After you create the hotspot, connect your Roku to it.
Step 2: Connect Your Smartphone to the WiFi Hotspot
The WiFi hotspot is created, and your Roku is connected. Now, you can connect your other smartphone to the same hotspot and access the Roku App. The process will vary depending if you're using an Android or iOS device.
That said, you can open Settings, select WiFi, and click the hotspot from the available networks. Enter the password you created earlier to connect to the hotspot.
Step 3: Download the Roku App to Control Your Device
Now you can install the Roku mobile app on your phone to control the streaming platform from your Android or iOS device. You can download and install the Roku App from the Google Play Store or the App Store, depending on your device.
Afterward, use the following instructions to control your Roku Player from your smartphone:
- Launch the Roku App on your Android or iOS device.
- Click your Roku model on the app's main display.
- Select Remote to use the built-in virtual remote feature.
- Now, use the virtual remote to control your Roku. Go to Home Screen > Settings > Network > Set Up Connection > Wireless.
- Select your primary WiFi network and enter the login credentials. Click Connect to finish.
Now your Roku is connected to your primary WiFi network. You may need to reconnect your smartphone to the same WiFi network to continue using the Roku mobile app as a virtual remote.
WiFi Won't Connect? Try These Troubleshooting Tips
Although Roku devices are versatile, convenient, and easy to use, they encounter issues like any other electronic device. WiFi issues are some of the most common problems users experience when accessing Roku streaming services. Fortunately, you can use the following troubleshooting tips to resolve most issues.
And note that, while the instructions below should be helpful for you if your Roku has trouble making the initial connection, we have a more robust guide that you can use if your previously operational Roku has stopped being able to connect while other devices are still working just fine.
Restart Router
If you encounter connectivity problems on your Roku, one troubleshooting solution is to restart your router. Restarting a router can help resolve common issues and refresh your internet connection. Use the following steps to get started:
- Unplug your router from the power source.
- Wait at least 30 seconds.
- Plug the router back in and wait for it to reboot entirely.
- Once the router has rebooted, try reconnecting your Roku device to WiFi.
If a restart doesn't fix the problem, you may want to troubleshoot other components on the Roku, like the network settings. Alternatively, you can inspect for any software updates on the Roku device and router. If the issue continues, it is best to consult your internet service provider for additional assistance.
Reset Your Roku
Another method to resolve WiFi problems is to reset your Roku to its factory settings. That said, this will delete all of your settings and preferences, restoring the device to its original condition. It may be a last resort, but here is how you reset your Roku:
- Go to the Settings menu on your Roku device.
- Select ‘System.'
- Choose ‘Advanced System Settings.'
- Select ‘Factory Reset.'
- Follow the on-screen prompts to confirm the reset.
After the rest is finished, you will need to configure your Roku once more and reconnect to the internet. If your issue isn't resolved, you may have a problem with your network connection or Roku model.
Try Using an Ethernet Cable
As mentioned earlier, an Ethernet cable can connect directly to your Roku to improve connection and resolve WiFi issues. Not all Roku devices are compatible with Ethernet connections, so check yours beforehand. Use the following steps to get started:
- Connect one end of an Ethernet cable to your Roku device and the other end to an available Ethernet port on your router.
- On your Roku device, go to ‘Settings‘ and select ‘Network.'
- Choose ‘Wired (Ethernet)‘ and follow the prompts to complete the setup.
You should have a more stable and fast internet connection once you connect your Roku via Ethernet. If your issue persists, it is best to troubleshoot your router or consult your internet service provider for additional support.
