Comprehensive Roku TV How to & Troubleshooting Guide

Roku is among the most popular TV streaming services currently in the market. Other than streaming devices, Roku has partnered with some smart TV brands to make smart TVs running on Roku OS. It provides an interface to browse various channels and stream your desired content.

Roku’s technology is constantly evolving, but it’s normal to experience a few issues from time to time. Thankfully, the Roku devices are pretty simple to troubleshoot most of the time.

Some common Roku problems include; connectivity issues, channel-specific issues, hardware issues like overheating, and firmware issues caused by bugs and glitches. Our article consists of the most potential Roku TV problems you may encounter and how to fix them.

Why is my Roku remote not working?

There are two types of Roku remotes available today. Identifying the issue and troubleshooting will be a lot easier if you can first identify which remote you use.

Standard infrared remotes: These work like regular TV remotes, which work by sending coded pulses of infrared light in a direct line of sight to the receiver on the Roku device.

WiFi-enabled remotes(Enhanced): You can point these remotes in any direction and still work because they connect to the Roku device via WiFi.

Remove the battery cover at the back of your remote. Then look for a button inside or adjacent to the compartment labeled ‘Pairing .’ If your Roku remote has a Pairing button, you have an enhanced remote; otherwise, it is an infrared remote.

Troubleshooting infrared Roku remotes

Check if the infrared signal is blocked. The remote requires a direct path of the signal to the receiver. Look for walls, furniture, and other things blocking the line of sight between the Roku device and remote. Removing the obstacle should get your remote working again.
Point the remote at the Roku device and press any button while observing the front of the Roku device. If the status light flashes then, your Roku remote is working fine. If the status light does not flash, the remote has an issue.
Check the batteries. Weak or dead batteries will not send enough of a signal. Hold the remote directly in front of the Roku box and press a button. If the batteries are weak, the remote will only work when using it close to the Roku box as the strength of the beam may not be enough to reach the box from far. Change the batteries with new ones and see if it works.
Reset the Roku device and remote. Remove the batteries from the remote, then unplug the power cable from the Roku streaming device. Wait about five seconds, then reconnect power to the device. When the Roku logo shows up on the TV, reinstall the remote batteries. Wait 30 seconds and see if resetting both devices has re-established the connection.
If a reset doesn’t work, check your WiFi connection. The infrared remote doesn’t need an internet connection to work, but it does require a functioning local network. If your WiFi connection is weak or down, the Roku device will not respond to the infrared remote. You may have to contact your internet service provider for troubleshooting.

Troubleshooting Enhanced Roku remotes

Reboot the Roku device. Unplug it from power, then reconnect it again.
Remove the batteries, leave them out for about five seconds, then replace them. If the remote doesn’t function, the batteries are probably weak or dead and need changing.
Check for HDMI interference. Nearby HDMI cables do cause interference for some Roku remote models. This problem is common on Roku streaming sticks that connect directly to your TV’s HDMI port. Use an HDMI cable extender to allow your Roku stick to be further away from the TV’s HDMI port.
Re-pair the Enhanced remote. Remove the batteries from the Enhanced remote and turn off or unplug the Roku device. Leave it off for about two seconds, then plug the device to power. When the Home Screen appears on the TV, replace the remote batteries. Then press and hold the pairing button underneath the remote or in the battery compartment until you see the pairing indicator light flash. Wait 30 seconds for the devices to sync and then test the connection.
If nothing works, the remote might have hardware damage, such as leaking batteries or a corroded circuit board. If the remote is physically damaged, then it needs a replacement.
Alternatively, you can use your Roku mobile app. However, Roku accepts that using your smartphone as a remote is not ideal as it will drain your phone’s battery. The Roku app is available and free for Android and iOS; however, this is a temporary fix while you wait to ship your Roku replacement remote.

How to pair a Roku remote

Pairing your Roku remote syncs it to the Roku device to allow you to navigate conveniently. Pairing is also necessary if you recently replaced your remote or have connectivity issues. However, not all remote controls require pairing.

For example, the infrared remote does not require pairing since it uses an infrared beam to communicate with the Roku device. Insert the batteries into your infrared remote, point at the Roku device, make sure the plain of sight is clear, and push the buttons you want to use.

However, the enhanced remote has a pairing button, usually in the battery compartment.

The easiest way to sync your remote to your TV is using the paring button. You can also use the Roku app on your smartphone or do it manually using the control buttons on your TV.

Pairing using the pairing button

Plug your Roku device into your TV and electrical outlet.
Change your TV to the HDMI input of your Roku device.
Insert the batteries into your enhanced remote.
If you were setting up your Roku player, it should pair with the remote automatically.
If it doesn’t work, press and hold the pairing button for about three to five seconds or until you see the indicator light turns on at the top of the remote.

Pairing using the Roku app

Follow the steps below to sync your Roku remote without a pairing button.

Ensure both your smartphone and Roku device are on the same network.
Open the Roku app on your smartphone.
Select the ‘Remote’ option, which allows your Roku TV with your smartphone.
Open ‘Settings’ and scroll to ‘Remotes and Devices’ on your TV with your smartphone.
Choose ‘Pair New Device .’Your Roku device will scan for compatible remotes, and you can select your remote from the list.

Pairing using the’ Pair Remote option’ on your TV

This pairing method only works if your TV has navigation buttons that do not require the remote.

Ensure your smartphone and Roku device are on the same WiFi network.
With your smartphone, open the Home screen of your Roku device.
Scroll to ‘Settings’ and select the ‘Remotes’ option.
Select ‘Pair Remote,’ and your Roku remote should automatically pair with the Roku device.

How to connect Roku to WiFi without remote

Roku remotes use WiFi to connect and stream through their Roku devices. So what happens if your Roku device loses its WiFi signal, but you do not have a Roku remote? Typically, you will need a paired Roku remote to connect Roku to WiFi.

However, if your remote is damaged or not working, you can connect Roku to the internet using the Roku app. Follow the steps below.

Things you will need

Current network name and password.
A smartphone

Directions

Connect your smartphone and Roku device to the same WiFi network.
Go to the Apple store or Google Play Store on your smartphone.
Download the free Roku app.
Open the Roku app and follow the on-screen instructions. If it’s your first time using the app, agree to the terms and services and proceed.
Click ‘Devices’
If it is your first time using the Roku app, tap ‘OK’ to allow the app to find your Roku devices.
Select your device from the list.
Tap ‘Connect now’ to your Roku device as a remote.
Tap the ‘Remote’ icon, which is a plus-shaped icon. The name of the Roku device will then appear at the top of the screen with a green dot.
Click the ‘Home’ icon to wake up the Roku device connected to your TV.
Use the arrow pad on the app to select Settings> Network> Set up connection> Wireless on the Roku device.
Select your WiFi network and enter the password.
If you have connected to a new network, the app remote will disconnect immediately, and you’ll need to connect your smartphone to the new network.

Roku remote volume is not working

One of the common problems you may experience with your Roku remote is the volume not working. Here’s how you can troubleshoot the issue.

Check the batteries. When your remote volume buttons aren’t working, the first thing to check is dead or weak batteries. Weak batteries may cause the remote control to work intermittently. Change the batteries and retest. If that doesn’t work, continue with troubleshooting.
Check for stuck buttons. Over time the keypad will collect dust, dirt, and grime, preventing the buttons from moving. Remove the remote batteries and then disassemble the remote using a screwdriver. Use a mild cleaner or wet wipes to clean away any gunk between the remote buttons and contacts.
Check if your TV has muted. Then, use your main TV remote to unmute it and see if the issue resolves.
Re-pair your Roku remote. Sometimes the Roku remote loses its connection to the Roku device. Try to pair it again, and that should fix the connection issues.
If you have the infrared remote, remove the batteries, wait about five minutes, then return the batteries and retest.
If you’re using the Roku app, check if have Private Listening is engaged. Private Listening is a feature that diverts the sound from the TV to your phone or attached headphones instead of the TV speakers. Toggle off Private Listening to get the sound back on your TV.
Reset your Roku device. Sometimes new firmware updates can cause bugs and glitches that prevent the Roku system from functioning correctly. Resetting clears these bugs. Unplug your Roku device from power for about 10 seconds, then plug it back in.
Try changing the HDMI port. Your Roku device connects with your TV through the HDMI port. If the HDMI port has rusted, you won’t adjust the volume with the remote.
Check your WiFi signal. If the WiFi network is weak, it can affect the functionality of both your remote and Roku device. Try rebooting your router by unplugging it from power. Wait about 10 minutes, reconnect it, and retest your remote.
Use different setup codes. All TV models have a unique set of remote codes. During setup, the Roku device narrows down the list of possible codes for your specific TV brand to program the enhanced remote to the correct code. However, the code the system selects contains controls either the volume or power but not both. Using a different code, the TV brand will resolve the issue. Follow the steps below to change the code.
On the homepage, go to Settings and select Remotes and Devices.
Click Remotes and go to Gaming Remote
Select Set Up Remote for TV Control
After a few minutes, Roku will start playing music, and an on-screen message will ask you if you hear music.
Increase the volume and select Yes or No.
If you can hear the music, an on-screen message will appear on the TV asking whether the music has stopped. Select ‘No’ until the music stops.
Select ‘OK,’ go back to the homepage, and retest. Your Roku remote should not be able to control the volume of your Roku devices.
If the music never stops, select ‘No,’ and a message ‘Enter the brand of your TV’ will appear on the TV.
After entering your TV brand, Roku will play music again and select ‘Yes’ if you hear it. You should be able t hear the music as Roku is using the correct codes for your TV brand.
If you can’t hear the music, it means either the Roku play or remote or their connection is defective.
Check if the remote is overheating. Overheating can prevent the volume rocker from functioning correctly. Touch the back of your remote and if it feels hot, set it aside and let it cool. Note that you should not remove the batteries while the remote feels hot.
Check if your Roku remote has a hardware issue. Operate the Roku app on your smartphone as a remote to adjust the volume. If volume controls work, the remote control has a hardware issue, and you may have to replace the entire remote.

common roku tv problems and how to fix them

How to reset a Roku remote

Resetting your Roku remote will clear all the saved settings and return them to factory settings. In addition, resetting can help fix your remote if you have connectivity issues or glitches. Follow the steps below to learn how to reset both the infrared and enhanced remotes.

Resetting the enhanced Roku remote

Disconnect your Roku player from the power outlet.
Remove the batteries from your Roku remote.
Plug your Roku player back to power after five seconds.
When the Roku logo appears on your screen, replace the batteries in your remote.
Then press and hold the pairing button in the remote battery compartment for about 5 seconds, or until the pairing light starts flashing on the remote.
Wait for the Roku to complete the pairing process. This will take 30 seconds, sometimes less. A prompt will appear on your TV when the pairing is successful.

Resetting the infrared Roku remote

Ensure there are no obstructions between your Roku player and remote.
Remove the batteries from your Roku remote.
Wait about 10 seconds, then replace the batteries.

How to screen mirror on Roku

Screen mirroring is the process of watching content from any app on your mobile device on the TV. The user can see their entire mobile device screen, including buttons and menus, and every activity they perform on their phone is replicated(mirrored) on their TV.

Additionally, you can control all activity only on the mobile device and not with the Roku remote. Most new Roku devices and Roku smart TVs support screen mirroring. Follow the guide below to screen mirror your Android and iOS phones to Roku.

Screen mirroring an Android phone to Roku

It is important to note that Android phone manufacturers use different terms for screen mirroring. For example, they could include; display mirroring, HTC Connect, Smart View, AllShare Cast, Quick Connect, SmartShare, Cast, or wireless display.

First, ensure the screen mirroring feature is engaged on your Roku.
Press the Home buttons on your remote.
Select ‘Settings’ and press ‘OK’ on the Roku remote.
Tap ‘System’ and press ‘OK.’
Click ‘Screen Mirroring’
Select ‘Screen Mirroring Mode’ and choose your preferred settings: ‘Prompt’ allows you to see an on-screen prompt asking you to confirm. ‘Always allow’ will l any device to connect automatically. ‘Never allow’ is for canceling the screen mirroring feature.
Go to your mobile phone’s submenu at the top of the screen and tap the Casting Iron symbol to enable screen mirroring.
Select your Roku device or TV from the list of matched devices and request a connection.

Screen mirroring an iPhone to Roku

First, update your Roku device to Roku OS 9.4 version.
Press the Home button on your Roku remote.
Scroll to Settings > System > System Update > Check now.
Tap ‘Update now’ and wait for your Roku device to restart if an update is available.
Open the ‘Control Center’ on your iPhone.
Click ‘Screen Mirroring,’ which has a symbol of two rectangles stacked on top of each other.
Select your Roku device from the drop-down list. If you do not see your device, ensure it is on and connected to the same WiFi network as your iPhone.
A code will appear on your TV. Enter that code from your TV on your iPhone.
Tap ‘OK’ to mirror your iPhone successfully onto your Roku player.

Roku is not connecting to WiFi

A strong WiFi connection is necessary to stream all your content on Roku. If your Roku has issues connecting to WiFi, it could be due to poor problems, router problems, poor WiFi signal, or a malfunctioning Roku device. Follow these troubleshooting steps to diagnose and resolve the issue.

Check the power supply to your router

Ensure your router is receiving power. If not, check the circuit breaker for any tripped breakers or blown fuses. Reset the breakers and replace any blown fuses. If the circuit problem continues, call an electrician to identify the issue causing a short circuit or over-surge.

Confirm whether your Roku device has an internet connection:

Go to the homepage and press the left arrow button on your Roku remote.
Scroll to Settings > Network > Network page > About. Look for connection information such as connection type, download speed, and signal strength.
If you do not see this information, your Roku is not connecting to the internet.
If you’re connected, and your Roku is not streaming or is streaming slowly, scroll to ‘Check Connection’ then press ‘OK .’ Then, retest the connection by streaming something. If it doesn’t work, try reconnecting your Roku to your router.
Restart your Roku device. Sometimes, the Roku software can develop bugs when left on for a long time. Rebooting the device should clear the bugs and memory and refresh the system.
Go to the home screen.
Open Settings > System > System restart> Restart. Press OK on the remote.
Wait for the Roku device to reboot and then retest it.

Restart your router

Over time, some factors can misconfigure the network setting, blocking Roku from accessing the internet. Firmware updates on your router can also cause issues with the network signals, and restarting your router should clear those issues. Finally, check if your router has a reset button in the form of a button or pinhole.

Press and hold the reset button for a few seconds until it restarts itself.
If your router has no reset button, unplug it from power for a minute or two, then reconnect it.

Check for signal obstructions

Distance and objects between your router and Roku device can create a weak signal, thus slow streaming. Try physically moving your router close to the Roku device to help strengthen the signal. Also, ensure the router’s location is open and away from appliances that can cause interference, such as microwave, oven, fridge.

Use Ethernet cable to your Roku device

If your WiFi connection is not strong enough, try connecting an Ethernet cable to your Roku device from your router. A wired connection creates a faster and more reliable connection. However, not all Roku models have an Ethernet, so ensure your device has an Ethernet port before purchasing the cable.

Change the frequency band on your Roku

WiFi networks come in two frequency bands, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. The 2.4 GHz band has a better effective range but doesn’t have enough network speed and strength, while the 5 GHz band has better signal strength but decreased range.

If your Roku model supports a dual-band wireless connection, you can use either band without issues. However, it is best to connect to the 5 GHz band and move the router closer to your Roku device.

YouTube is not working on Roku

Several reasons may prevent the YouTube app from working on your Roku device. Try the troubleshooting tips below to get YouTube functioning.

Check your home internet connection

Check if other devices in your home have a WiFi connection. YouTube and other streaming apps will not work on Roku if your WiFi isn’t working. Try restarting your router to see if it can correct the issue.

A slow internet connection will also make it difficult to stream content on YouTube. If some devices are on the network, you can suspect low internet as the culprit. Perform an internet speed test, and if it is low, moving your router closer to the Roku device should fix the issue. If the problem doesn’t resolve, contact your internet service provider to fix the issue.

Reboot your Roku device

If your Roku device has overheated or been on for a long time, it will cause streaming issues. The best fix is to unplug your Roku device from power for about 10-15 minutes to cool down and refresh its systems. Then power up the device and try relaunching YouTube.

Update your Roku software

If your Roku runs on outdated software, it will create some streaming issues. Check your device for updates in the settings menu and update your Roku streaming device.

Press the ‘Home’ button on the remote to open the homepage.
Then select Settings > System > System update > Check now.
Wait for the update, then open YouTube to see if the issue has cleared.

Reinstall the app

Glitches and bugs in the app can prevent YouTube from streaming on Roku. Delete the app and reinstall it again.

Go to ‘Home.’
Find the YouTube app.
Click the asterisk(*) button on your remote to open the Channel Menu
Click ‘Remove Channel’ then ‘OK’ and wait for Roku to uninstall YouTube.
Disconnect your Roku device from power and plug it back in.
Go to ‘Streaming Channels’, install YouTube again and retest it.

Check if the YouTube app is down

Although Rarely, YouTube servers can go down and affect streaming content. You can check YouTube’s official pages for any notifications. However, if that’s the case, you have to wait until Google fixes the issue.

How to watch HBO max on Roku

You can get HMO Max on your Roku player in two ways. First, it’s important to note that you will need an HBO Max subscription to stream content on the app; however, the download is free.

Method one

The easiest method to get HBO Max on your Roku is adding it to your ‘Streaming Channels.’

Go to the homepage of your Roku – press the Home button on the remote.
Move to ‘Streaming Channels.’
HBO Max should appear on the list of featured channels. If it’s there, scroll to the icon and select it. If it is not there, go to ‘Search Channels,’ enter HBO Max and select it when the results appear.
Click ‘Add Channel.’
Go back to the Home page, and HBO Max will be on the list of apps. Open it and sign up for an HBO Max account to get started.

Method two

You can add your HBO Max app through the Roku website.

Open the Roku website and log into your account.
Hover the mouse over your account icon in the top-right corner and select ‘Channel store.’
Look for HBO Max in the list of features channels and click ‘+Add channel’ or search for it and click ‘Details’ and then ‘+Add channel.’
Go back to your Roku home page, and you will see it on the age.
Open it and sign in to your HBO Max account.

How to log out of HBO Max on Roku

It’s tricky to sign out of HBO max because the sign-out button is hidden. So instead, follow the steps below to log out of your HBO Max app on Roku.

Go to the homepage of your Roku.
Find the HBO Max channel on the home page and open it.
Click and open your profile.
Choose to Browse on the upper-left corner of the screen, select the profile icon and click ‘OK.’
Select ‘My Profile.’
Keep clicking the right arrow button on the remote until you see ‘Sign Out.’
Click on ‘Sign Out’ and press ‘OK.’

How to cast to Roku

Casting allows you to launch supported apps like YouTube and Netflix directly to your TV from your smartphone or computer. Although casting and screen mirroring has the same end goal of directing your phone’s screen onto your TV, there are a few differences between the two.

Differences between casting and screen mirroring

These differences include:

Casting allows you to watch content only available from a mobile app that supports explicitly casting like YouTube. Screen mirroring allows you to watch content from any app installed on your mobile device.
Casting allows you to see a playback of the selected content, whereas screen mirroring will enable you to see the entire screen as it is on your phone.
Casting gives you the option of using your phone for control, or you can choose to use your Roku remote. With screen mirroring, you control all actions on your mobile device.
Casting allows you to do other things on your phone once playback begins, or you can power off your phone entirely. However, screen mirroring requires your phone to remain powered on for the playback duration.
Most mobile devices support casting- you will see the casting icon in an app, then you may cast content on your TV. However, not in all cases. Screen mirroring is limited to compatible Android and Windows devices.

Now that your know the differences between casting and screen mirroring, here’s how you can cast content from your mobile device to Roku.

Casting to Roku from Android device

Install the specific channel to your Roku device. Note that you do not need to open the matching channel on Roku to begin casting.
Then ensure you have the matching app on your mobile device.
Open the app you want to cast on your mobile device and select the casting icon. In some apps, the casting icon only appears when you begin the playback on the mobile device.
A list of devices will appear on your phone; select your Roku device.
The channel will launch automatically on your Roku device, and video playback will play.
You can use the Roku remote to control settings such as pause and play.
To stop casting, press the casting icon and click ‘Disconnect.’

Casting to Roku from iPhone

On your iPhone, open the playback you want to see on your TV.
Then tap the casting icon, usually in the top-right corner.
Select your Roku device from the drop-down list of devices.
Then wait for your iPhone to connect to the Roku device.
The playback should begin showing on your TV.
To stop casting, press the casting icon and click ‘Disconnect.’

How to AirPlay on Roku

Apple developed AirPlay to allow users to stream music(or audio in general), movies, photos, and games from one Apple device to another AirPlay-compatible device. Here’s a guide on how to AirPlay your iOS device to Roku.

Step 1. Check both devices are compatible with AirPlay

Most Roku 4K streaming players and Roku TVs support AirPlay; however, a few devices miss out on the technology. To confirm if your Roku is compatible with Airplay, find your Roku device’s model number and software version from the settings.

Select Settings >System> About on your Roku.
Now match the model number with the following AirPlay-compatible devices.
Roku TV: Axxxx, Cxxxx, CxxGB, 7xxxx
Roku Streambar: 9102
Roku Streambar Pro: 9101R2
Roku Express 4K: 3940
Roku Premiere: 4630, 4620, 3920
Roku TV: Dxxxx, 8xxxx
Roku Premiere+: 3921, 4630
Roku Streaming Stick+: 3811, 3810
Roku Smart Soundbar: 9100, 9101
Roku Express 4K+: 3941
Roku Ultra LT: 4662
Roku Ultra: 4600, 4640, 4660, 4661, 4670, 4800
Roku Streaming Stick: 3600, 3800, 3801
Roku Express: 3900, 3930, 3801
Roku Express+: 3910, 3931
Roku HD: 3932
Roku 2: 4205, 4210
Roku 3: 4200, 4201, 4230
The ensure the Roku device is running on Roku OS 9.4 or later. If it doesn’t, you can update the software.
Only Apple devices running on iOS 11.4 or later can use AirPlay services. In comparison, your Mac must be using macOS Mojave10.14.5 or later.

Step 2. Enable AirPlay on Roku

Turn on the AirPlay in the settings menu of your Roku.
Go to Settings > Apple Airplay and Homekit.
Toggle on the AirPlay option on the AirPlay and HomeKit settings.

Step 3. Play content on your Roku device with AirPlay

Select the song, video, photo, podcast, or other media you want to stream to your TV on your Apple mobile device. You have two options to achieve this: you can stream your desired media file or mirror the entire screen of your Apple device.

The following steps differ depending on the app you’re streaming. Below are some standard apps:

Spotify

Open the Spotify app on your phone
Find the song you want to stream and play it.
Click the ‘Listening on’ icon at the bottom of the ‘Now Playing screen.
Choose ‘Airplay or Bluetooth’ on the ‘Listening on’ screen.
Tap your streaming device from the list of detected devices.
An AirPlay passcode will appear on your TV. Enter this passcode on your Apple mobile device and tap ‘OK.’
Your Spotify media should start playing on Roku.

Photo apps

Open the Photo app on your Apple device.
Click on the Share button in the bottom-left corner.
Scroll down on the share menu and click ‘AirPlay.’
Select the name of your TV in the pop-up list, and your photos will appear on the TV.

Mobile streaming apps like Hulu, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video

Open the mobile app on your phone and start playing the video you want to watch. Unfortunately, you cannot AirPlay content from Netflix anymore.
Click on the AirPlay icon at the top of the screen. The AirPlay icon looks like a rectangle with a triangle underneath it.
Select your Roku device, and your show will start showing on your TV.

Roku airplay is not working on Roku

There are a variety of reasons that can cause AirPlay problems on Roku. However, most issues are due to poor internet connection or temporary glitches that a reboot or a reset can resolve. Below are possible fixes you can try to fix your AirPlay problems.

Restart your Roku device. The Roku system can hang if the device is overheating or running continuously for a long time. Go to Settings > System > Power > System restart > Restart and wait until the device restarts. Then relaunch AirPlay.
Restart the router. You can fix minor internet issues by restarting your router or modem. First, switch off the router, disconnect it from power, then wait about two minutes for the router to cool down. After cooling, reconnect the router back to power. Once the router reboots, launch Airplay and see if it works.
Enable screen mirror for Airplay to work. You need to ensure you have set up your AirPlay correctly; otherwise, it won’t work. First, you need to enable screen mirroring on your Apple device when using AirPlay on Roku.
Ensure that both the Roku device and Apple device are in the range of each other. Also, check both devices have the latest updated version and then restart both devices.
Reset Roku. Resetting your Roku device should clear air problems within Roku’s software system. However, after the reset, you have to go back and adjust your Roku settings again. After updating both devices, try connecting AirPlay again.
Ensure the Apple mobile device and Roku player connect to the same WiFi network. You can confirm this by going to the Home page on your Roku device select Settings > Network > About. If the Roku device is on a different network, change it. Also, check your iPhone’s internet connection as sometimes WiFi can switch, and you could be on mobile data. Then, switch it to the same network as Roku and reconnect AirPlay.
If none of the solutions about work, you may have to contact Roku or Apple support for further assistance.

How to restart Roku TV

Restarting your Roku TV is a great way to solve some Roku TV issues. For instance, if the Roku stops responding suddenly, freezing apps, internet connection issues, Roku loses its sound or responds slowly to inputs. A restart always saves your system settings and log-ins. Here’s how to restart your Roku or perform a soft reset.

Go to the homepage of your Roku
– press the Home button on the remote.
Select the ‘Settings’ menu and press ‘OK’ on the remote.
Press the right arrow button and choose ‘System.’
Press the right arrow button and choose ‘Power.’
Press the right arrow button and choose ‘System Restart.’
Press the right arrow button and choose ‘Restart.’
Press ‘OK’ to confirm, then give the Roku TV a few minutes to restart its system.

How to turn off voice on Roku

Roku device has two different voice narrations.

Screen Reader: this feature reads the interface aloud as you navigate and make selections with the remote control.
Descriptive audio: this feature describes scenes when watching a TV show or movie.

Fortunately, both features are easy to disable.

Using Roku remote

Quickly press the asterisk button four times on your Roku remote.

Using audio guide shortcut

This method is convenient if you have someone at home who keeps turning it on and off. So this method disabled the audio guide shortcut.

Go to Settings > Accessibility > Audio guide
Scroll to Shortcut and select ‘Disabled.’
Test by pressing the asterisk button on the remote control four times. If no audio comes on, then it has worked.

Go to Settings > Accessibility > Screen reader
Select ‘Off’.

How to turn off descriptive audio

Descriptive audio is a feature that streaming services implement on their own. Therefore you can only enable and disable it from within the streaming app. Every streaming app has different procedures to turn off its description audio feature, but here is a guide on switching odd descriptive control in a few popular streaming apps.

Hulu: Press the Up button on the Roku remote, then ‘Settings .’Go to ‘Audio’ change the language to one without the audio description.
Netflix: Press the Up button on the Roku remote to open language options. Change the setting from ‘English-Audio description’ to a language without audio description.
Amazon prime video: Press the Up button, then select ‘Audio & Languages’. Select the available language without audio description.
HBO Max: Press the asterisk button on the Roku remote, select ‘Accessibility & Captions,’ and then scroll to ‘Audio track.’ Select a language that doesn’t include descriptive audio. Then, read the summary at the top of the screen to see which options are descriptive.

How to turn on Roku TV without remote

Roku streaming devices do not have a power button because it is not independent device. The TV that Roku connects to controls the Roku device. If you turn off the TV, the Roku device goes on standby mode. If you turn on the TV and switch the HDMI output where Roku is connected, it will turn on automatically.

On the other hand, Roku TV has mechanical buttons for emergency purposes. The location of these buttons varies depending on brand and model year. The power button could be in the following area on your Roku TV:

Middle underside.
Back of the TV, right-hand side
Back of the TV, left-hand side
Front left, underside

Then you can use the Roku app on your phone to control and navigate through the streaming channels.

How to get local channels on Roku

Local channels are the best source for regional News and sports coverage. There are different ways to get local channels on Roku due to various licensing and distribution deals. You can get them via Roku Channel Store, third-party apps, or an antenna.

In addition, some local channels are available on Roku for free, while others are subscription-based. Follow the steps below on how to get local channels on Roku devices.

Official local Roku TV channels

The best and easiest way to access local TV channels on your Roku device is through official apps on the Roku Channel Store. There are over 100 local news channels to choose from that have free content like WSB-TV Channel 2, WTVF News Channel 5, News 12, Boston 25, WPXI Channel 11 News, FOX13 Memphis News, WBRC FOX 6 News, and KGTV 10 News San Diego.

Scroll to the News and Weather section on your Roku device or website, download the apps of your choice to your Roku and launch them.

Third-party local TV apps

You can try third-party options if you can’t find a specific local channel on the Roku Channel Store.

NewsON

On NewsON, you can gain access to more than 170 TV stations from across the US for free. It is a joint project between five of the largest TV stations in the US: ABC, Cox Media Group, Hearst Television, Media General, and Raycom Media.

Haystack TV

This app gives access to more than 150 local news stations such as CBS Los Angeles KCAL, CBS San Francisco KPIX, CBS Chicago WBBM, CBS Pittsburgh KDKA, CBS Boston WBZ, CBS New York WCBS, NBC Nebraska.

Subscription-based live TV apps

If you have a subscription to an app that offers live TV, you can use it to watch local TV via your Roku device. Some Roku apps that stream local channels include CBS All Access, DirectTV Now, Hulu + Live TV, PlayStation Vue, Sling TV, YouTube TV.

Connect an OTA antenna to your Roku TV

Using an over-the-air(OTA) antenna with your Roku device will give you high-quality local channels to stream at the most affordable prices. In addition, they have the widest variety of content, collecting signals from over 100 miles from you. It is a one-time purchase that lasts you a lifetime of quality local content.

YouTube TV

YouTube TV offers the option of streaming local channels. In addition, many local channels telecast their content, especially News and developing stories, live all day on YouTube.

Roku screen mirroring

You can cast apps from your mobile devices to your Roku using Roku mobile app or Apple Airplay. If the local TV channel you want to watch is not on Roku or a third-party app and only streams online, you can screen mirror your Roku TV for viewing.

Since Roku doesn’t have a web browser and an internet surfing feature, that local station cannot stream the content directly on Roku.

You can screen mirror the channel from your Android or Windows device using Miracast. This app acts as a wireless HDMI that casts your device’s screen onto the supported TV.

To use Miracast on Windows, open the ‘Action Centre’ and click ‘Connect .’On your Android device, open ‘Settings,’ click ‘Connected Devices,’ then ‘Cast.’

Why is Netflix not working on Roku?

There are several reasons why Netflix fails when watching Roku because they are two different online services. The issue could be with Netflix, Roku connection to your TV, hardware issues, or the internet connection itself. Let’s go through the most common causes of failures and their possible fixes.

Check your internet connection

Netflix and Roku services rely on the internet. So if the network connection is absent or weak, Netflix will not work. If the content you’re watching is loading slowly, buffering, or showing in low quality, then you likely have a weak network. Follow the steps below to confirm the issue:

Press the Home button on the Roku remote.
Scroll to Settings.
Open ‘Network’ and check the connection status.
If you’re connected, click ‘Check Connection’ to test the strength.
In case the connection is low, continue with troubleshooting the router.
If Roku says you’re not connected, check if the router is connecting to power. If it is off, check the circuit breaker. Reset any tripped breaker or replace blown fuses.
If the problem recurs, contact an electrician to investigate the source of power issues.
Ensure the power to the router is sufficient, reboot the connection for a few minutes.
If it the still weak, try moving the router closer to the Roku device.
A better solution for a more robust network signal is connection an Ethernet cable from the router to the Roku device.

Restart your Roku device

Unplug your Roku device, wait about 10 minutes, then restart it again. Sometimes Roku can freeze if it has been running for a long time. A restart will allow the device to soft reset, end all your open apps, and clear the RAM.

Check for updates

You should check if your Roku device needs an update. Running Netflix on a Roku device with outdated software will cause streaming issues. Roku should update itself automatically whenever you put it on, but you can check it manually using the steps below.

Go to Settings > System > Software Update
Click ‘Check Now’
The system will check for available updates to the Netflix app and Roku system. If updates are available, click ‘Update’ and give the systems time to launch the newer software version. Then retest Netflix.

Check your Netflix account

If other streaming apps on your Roku have no issues, the problem could be within the Netflix app.

Check if you updated your latest subscription or your account supports only a few simultaneous streams.
If you’re sharing your account if multiple people, you can be logged out of the account users reach the limit number.
Check the Netflix Help Center page to know the current status of the Netflix service. If Netflix servers are down, you’ll have to wait until they sort the problem.
If Netflix is not down, try deleting the Netflix app from Roku, then reinstall it.

Check Roku parental controls

Check if the parent control settings in your Roku device are active. Parental control could be blocking you from launching Netflix content that goes against their regulations. Also, check Netflix parental control settings for your account.

Disable your VPN

If you use a VPN extension to connect your router or Roku device to the internet, the VPN could create connection issues. Instead, try disabling your VPN and reconnecting your Roku to the internet directly.

How to log out of Netflix on Roku

The Netflix signing-out process on Roku varies depending on which Roku model you’re using. Keep in mind that logging out of Netflix will not log out your account out of your other Roku devices. Use the steps below to learn how to sign out of your Netflix account on different Roku models.

Roku 1

Go to the Roku settings menu.
Select ‘Netflix settings’ from the options on the list.
Tap “Deactivate this device from my Netflix account” from the menu.
Confirm your selection on the prompt that appears.

Roku 2( HD, XD or XS) and Roku LT

Click the Home button on the Roku remote.
Highlight your Netflix channel.
Press the asterisk(*) button on the remote to open channel options.
Select ‘Remove Channel.’
Confirm your selection by clicking ‘Remove channel’ again.

All other newer Roku models( Roku 3, 4, Streaming stick, Express, Roku TV)

Open the Netflix channel on your Roku and choose your watch profile.
Click on the left side menu to open the settings menu.
Select ‘Sign Out’
Confirm your selection by choosing ‘Yes’ on the prompt.

In case you cant see ‘Get Help,’ ‘Settings,’ or the Settings icon:

From within the Netflix channel, use the arrow buttons on your remote to enter the following sequence:
Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, Up, Up, Up, Up
Then click ‘Sign Out’ from the options.

How to find Roku IP address

You may require your Roku IP address during troubleshooting or when configuring something. Fortunately, you can find your Roku IP address with or without the Roku remote. We will show you both methods below.

How to find a Roku IP address using the Roku remote

Press the ‘Home’ button on the Roku remote.
Open the ‘Settings’ menu.
Select ‘Network’
Click on ‘About .’The Roku IP address will appear on the screen with a list of other network information about your device.

How to find your Roku IP address without a remote

You can access your Roku address without the remote through a few other ways.
Using the Roku mobile app
Open the Roku app on your smartphone.
On the Roku Channel or Channels tab, tap the gear icon at the top right corner of the screen.
Tap ‘System Info’. A page will appear with your Roku’s IP address and other network information.

How to find your Roku IP address using the Chrome Extension

Roku has a free extension Chrome browser called Remoku. Remoku is a web app that allows the user to use a virtual remote on your computer to control your Roku over your network. Unfortunately, Remoku doesn’t work with all Roku models, and users have complained that it works intermittently or fails completely.

Open Google Chrome
Go to the Chrome Web Store and find the Remoku extension.
Click ‘Add to Chrome; to install in. Next, confirm your selections by clicking ‘Add extension.’
After successful installation, the Remoku icon, a black square with an R, appears at the top of the Chrome screen.
Tap the Remoku icon to open it. The virtual remote will appear.
Click ‘Settings,’ and a menu of the settings menu will appear.
Suppose you have a standard home network ( network IP begins with 192.168.1…”), select ‘Scan .’then wait about two minutes while the app scans each IP address on your network to find your Roku.
If your network has a different IP address format, configure it before clicking ‘Scan.’
Remoku will scan through all the IP addresses within your network’s range and find the one that belongs to a Roku device. The IP address should appear under the ‘Find my Roku’ section.

How to find your Roku IP address from your router

Most routers can allow you to view the devices currently connected. However, not all routers will expose the device’s name or IP address. Nevertheless, you can give it a try and see your router has your Roku’s IP address using the following guide.

Windows

Open your PC and click on the Windows icon.
Enter ‘Command Prompt’ in the search box that appears.
Open ‘Command Prompt’
Type ‘ipconfig’ (Windows 7) or ‘ipcongi’ (Windows 8, 8.1, 10).
Your Roku address will be next to the Default Gateway.

Mac

Open ‘System Preferences’.
Click ‘Network’.
Select ‘Advanced’.
Click ‘TCP/IP’. Find your Roku IP address next to the router.

How to delete channels on Roku

Adding and removing streaming channels from your Roku is very simple. Deleting the streaming channels from your Roku does not cancel your subscription, but it helps prevent flooding your homepage with channels you don’t need or use often. Here’s how to remove streaming channels from your Roku using the remote or the mobile app.

Removing channels on Roku via remote

Press the Home button on the Roku remote to open the main screen.
Navigate to the channel you want to remove from the homepage and highlight it.
Press the asterisk button on the remote to show the options menu.
Scroll to ‘Remove Channel’
Press ‘OK’ to confirm the selection.
Reconfirm the removal of the channel on the prompt that appears. Then, highlight ‘Remove’ and press ‘OK.’

Remove channels on Roku via the mobile app

Open the Roku app on your smartphone.
Tap the Channels (a symbol with four squares) icon.
Select ‘My Channel’ to see the list of channels available on your Roku TV.
Tap and hold the channel icon to view the options menu.
Select ‘Remove’ and confirm the selection.

Remove channels on Roku via Roku Channel Store

Press the Home button on the Roku remote.
Scroll down to ‘Steaming Channels’ on the left-hand side menu.
Tap ‘Channel store.’
Look for the channel your want to delete from Roku.
Click ‘OK’ to open the channel details.
Click ‘Remove Channel’ then ‘OK’ to confirm the selection.

How to reset Roku pin

Roku allows users to use a four-digit PIN to give access to only authorized users to make purchases. It is also helpful when using the parental control feature to keep children from watching specific content. You can only create, change and reset the Roku PIN from the Roku website. Here is how to update your Roku PIN:

Go to my.roku.com in a web browser and sign in to your account.
If you don’t know your password, click ’Forgot password?’ and follow the instructions to get a password reset email.
In the PIN Preference section, click ’Update’ to open the PIN settings menu.
Enter your new PIN and verify it. Both fields must match exactly.
Select ‘Save Changes to save the new PIN and preferences.

How to use Roku TV without remote and WiFi

You can use your Roku TV without a remote by using the Roku app to control and navigate the streaming channels. Additionally, your Roku device and smartphone have to connect to the same internet network to use the Roku app as a remote. If you do not have WiFi, there are several options you can use to watch content on your Roku TV.

Use an Ethernet port

If you own a Roku TV or streaming device and your router can’t support WiFi, you can connect your Roku device using the inbuilt Ethernet port.

Get an Ethernet cable and connect it from your router to the Ethernet port at the back of your Roku device.
Configure the wired connection by turning on your Roku device.
Then go to Settings > Network > Wired, and follow the on-screen instructions.

Screen mirroring with a mobile hotspot

If you do not have WiFi, you can watch content on your Roku TV by screen mirroring the content from your phone using a mobile hotspot. You will need two smartphones to use this method; one for a mobile hotspot and another for mirroring.
Turn on the hotspot on your spare smartphone.
Go to Settings > Network and internet > Hotspot and tethering > WiFi hotspot and toggle it on. Then enable WPA2 password protection to avoid anyone else accessing the network.
Connect your Roku device and smartphone to the mobile hotspot.
Go to ‘Settings’ on your Roku home screen.
Select System > Screen mirroring.
Turn on the screen mirroring feature on your phone.
Pick your Roku device from the list and then accept the request on Roku when prompted.
When the prompt asks if you want to use RokuCast without the internet, click on ‘Proceed anyway.’
When you approve screen mirroring from your smartphone, you will be able to see the contents of your screen on the TV.

Other ways you can watch content on your Roku TV without WiFi or internet include:

Download content from streaming apps for offline use.
Download media on your smartphone and use screen mirroring.
Play media using the USB port.
Using an SD card to store offline content.

How to get Twitch on Roku

If you’re an avid gamer on Twitch, you probably know that Amazon discontinued the official Twitch app from Roku Channel Store. Fortunately, there are a few workarounds to get Twitch on your Roku device.

Use the unofficial Twitch channel

An unofficial Twitch channel called Twoku allows you to stream Twitch content without relying on the official app. Another option is Unofficial Twitch, but the best one is Twoku. You can try either channel and see which one works best on your Roku. Unfortunately, these channels are not perfect; they have bugs and are rarely up-to-date. Thankfully, you can delete them without notice. Here’s how to add Twoku to your Roku.

Open your Roku account on a web browser. Then, log in to your Roku account.
Go to ‘Account settings.’
Type ‘Twoku’ on the ‘Add Channel’ page
Verify the Captcha and tap the ‘Add channel’ button.
Select ‘OK’ on the prompt warning message.
Select Yes, add a channel in the following pop-up.
Power on your Roku and select Settings > System > System Update > Check now and wait for the channel to update.
Go to the home screen and find Twoku on the Streaming Channels list.
Launch Twoku and start streaming your content.

Screen mirror twitch from Android mobile device to Roku

You can screen mirror your twitch streams to your Roku device from your mobile device.

With Android

Ensure you have the Twitch app on your Android device.
Enable screen mirroring feature on your Android device. Open Settings > Bluetooth & Device Connection
Select ‘Cast.’
Turn on ‘Enable wireless display.’
Choose your Roku device on the list.
Go to your Roku and select ‘Allow,’ Your Android screen should appear on your Roku.
Launch the Twitch app on your mobile device and play your content.

With Windows

Select the notifications icon at the bottom-right corner.
Choose ‘Project’ from the menu.
Under the Project menu, select ‘Duplicate’ to mirror your PC screen on your Roku screen.
Tap ‘Connect to a wireless display’ at the bottom of the menu.
Choose your Roku device.
Select ‘Allow’ on the prompt that appears. Your PC screen should now appear on Roku.
Open a web browser, go to the Twitch site, and start playing your Twitch streams.

With Mac

Go to your Mac’s menu bar select the ‘Control center’ icon.
Choose ‘Screen Mirroring.’
Select your Roku device from the list.
A code will appear on your Roku screen. Enter that code in the prompt on your Mac.
Select ‘OK,’ and your Mac will mirror your Roku through Apple AirPlay.
Open a web browser on your Mac and launch the Twitch site.

How to get Spectrum on Roku

Spectrum TV app is currently available on Roku for live and on-demand content. Here’s how to set up Spectrum TV on your Roku.

Make sure your Roku account is active, and your Roku device or TV is connecting to the internet.
Go to Roku Channel Store.
Click the ‘Watch With Cable’ tab or type in ‘Spectrum TV’ in the search bar.
Select ‘Spectrum TV’ and download the app.
Sign in with your existing account credentials.
If you don’t have an account with Spectrum, sign up through your Roku device and start streaming.

How to turn off captions on Roku

Just like turning the captions or subtitles on, there are two ways to disable them. First, the captioning settings could be active in the Roku system or channel settings. We will teach you how to turn both caption settings off.

Turning off captions on the system-level settings

Press the Home button on the Roku remote control.
On the left-side menu, scroll down to ‘Settings.’
Press the right-hand arrow button to move to ‘Accessibility.’
Select ‘Captions mode’ and toggle it to the off position.
In some older Roku models, there is no ‘Accessibility’ menu. Instead, press ‘Caption’ in the settings menu and toggle it off to disengage captioning.

Turn off captions while watching

If you want to turn off captions on Roku for a particular show, you can use the steps below.

When playback begins, and you notice the captions are on, press the asterisk button on your Roku remote to open the Options menu.
Find ‘Closed captioning’ and click off to disengage it.

Most streaming channels will allow you to use the method above but remember, some will not allow the same method.

Turning off captions on the channel-level settings

Often, the caption setting could be on within a specific streaming channel. The process of switching the captions off will vary depending on the streaming channel, but we have a general guide below.

Go to the channel’s homepage.
Find the channel settings.
Look for Closed caption settings within the menu for accessibility, audio, or subtitles.

Why does my Roku keep buffering?

With so many reasons that can cause buffering on your Roku, the elimination process is the best way to identify the issue. The guide below will help you identify the possible reason and solution when you experience buffering and slow streaming on your Roku.

Poor internet connection

Streaming content on Roku relies on the internet. So when content is buffering, lagging, or loading slowly, the most likely culprit is a poor connection. To confirm this, check your Roku’s WiFi signal strength.

Use the Roku remote and select Settings > Network > About. Then check the list for the signal strength; if it is labeled ‘Fair’ or ‘Poor,’ try the following solutions to improve signal strength.

Move the router closer to the Roku. Distance and object can affect signal range and speed.
Disconnect unnecessary devices from the network. Remove other devices such as computers and gaming systems that you’re not currently using from the network. Overcrowding the network can reduce signal strength.
Restart your router. A soft reset on your Roku can quickly fix connection issues, especially if your router has been running for a long time.
Upgrade your router’s firmware or replace it with a router model that supports a high-speed 5GHz network.
Switch to a wired connection by connecting an Ethernet cable. Wired connections are faster and decrease buffering and slow streaming.

Restart your Roku

Rebooting your Roku device helps to clear temporary glitches and refresh the system. Power off the Roku device, wait about five minutes and restart it.

Check this too: Can You Connect a Keyboard to a Smart TV?

Update your Roku

You are likely to experience buffering issues if your Roku device runs on an outdated software version. Check for system updates and upgrade if necessary.

Select Settings > System > System Update > Check Now then update your Roku’s operating system to the latest version.

Check the Roku device or router for overheating

It could be overheating if your Roku starts buffering shortly after turning it on. Disconnect it from the electrical outlet and allow it to cool down, wipe down the surface with a dry cloth or use a shop vac on the lowest setting, then reconnect it to power.

To prevent overheating, clean it frequently using a shop vac on low suction to avoid dust accumulating on it. Also, make sure the streaming Roku device is on a hard surface and not cloth.

Disable VPN

If you’re using a VPN, it could be the reason for decreased bandwidth. Try disabling it, restart your Roku device then retest it.

Change the video quality

Many Roku apps allow you to adjust the resolution of videos. Try choosing 1080p instead of 4K and check if the buffering stops. Select 720p or an even lower quality or resolution setting if buffering persists.

Reinstall the channel

If only one channel is experiencing the buffering, the problem could be with the channel itself. Remove the streaming channel from your Roku and reinstall it.

Clear Roku’s cache

The Roku device stores so much temporary data for quicker access. Sometimes this cache data can cause connection issues. On your Roku remote, press the Home button five times, Up once, Rewind twice, and Fast Forward two times to clear the cache. The Roku device will shut down and restart after a few minutes to half an hour.

Conclusion

Roku devices are great for streaming a wide variety of shows and local content, but they are not without issues. This Roku TV troubleshooting guide will help you fix most of the problems associated with Roku streaming devices, Roku TVs, and Roku remotes.

Of course, if none of the above solutions work, you can always contact Roku services for professional help. Also, older streaming devices tend to be more problematic due to normal wear and tear and require an upgrade.