How to Fix It When Roku Won't Connect to Wi-Fi or Internet

Check your Wi-Fi network

If your Roku device is not connecting to Wi-Fi or the internet, one of the first things you should do is to check your Wi-Fi network. Here are a few steps you can take:

Make sure your Wi-Fi is activated and working properly. Check if other devices in your home are able to connect to the Wi-Fi network without any issues. This can help determine if the problem lies with your Roku device or your network.
Move your Roku device closer to the Wi-Fi router. Sometimes, a weak Wi-Fi signal can cause connectivity issues. By placing your Roku device in close proximity to the router, you can ensure a stronger signal and improve the chances of a successful connection.
Check the Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password. Double-check if you are inputting the correct network name and password when trying to connect your Roku device. Sometimes, the network name may have changed or the password may have been modified without your knowledge.
Restart your Wi-Fi router. Sometimes, a simple restart can fix connectivity issues. Unplug the router, wait for a few seconds, and then plug it back in. Allow the router to fully reboot and then reconnect the Roku device to the Wi-Fi network.
Ensure that your Wi-Fi router is not set to a hidden or invisible mode. Roku devices cannot connect to hidden Wi-Fi networks, so make sure that your router is broadcasting the network name (SSID) for the Roku device to detect and connect to.

By following these steps, you can troubleshoot and resolve common Wi-Fi network issues that may be preventing your Roku device from connecting to the internet. If the problem persists, there may be other factors affecting the connectivity that need further investigation.

Reset your Roku device

If your Roku device is still not connecting to Wi-Fi or the internet after checking your Wi-Fi network, you may need to reset your Roku device. Resetting your Roku device can help resolve software glitches and restore it to its default settings. Here’s how you can do it:

Go to the Home screen on your Roku device by pressing the Home button on your Roku remote.
Scroll up or down to highlight the Settings option and press the OK button on your remote to select it.
In the Settings menu, navigate and select the System option.
Select the Advanced system settings option.
From the Advanced system settings menu, choose the Factory reset option.
A confirmation screen will appear. Select the Factory reset everything option and wait for the process to complete.
Once the reset is done, your Roku device will turn off and then back on again.
Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your Roku device again, including connecting it to your Wi-Fi network.

Resetting your Roku device should clear any temporary issues or settings that may have been causing connection problems. However, please note that this process will remove all installed channels and personal preferences, so you will need to set up your Roku device from scratch.

If resetting your Roku device doesn’t resolve the connectivity issue, there may be other factors at play. In such cases, it’s recommended to move on to the next troubleshooting steps to further diagnose the problem.

Check your internet connection

If you’re facing connectivity issues with your Roku device, it’s essential to check your internet connection. Here are some steps to help you troubleshoot the issue:

Verify that other devices in your home can connect to the internet without any problems. This will help determine if the issue lies with your Roku device or your internet connection.
If other devices are also experiencing connectivity issues, try restarting your modem or router. Simply unplug the power source, wait for about 30 seconds, and then plug it back in. Allow the modem or router to fully reboot and establish a stable connection.
Ensure that all cables connected to your modem and router are secure and undamaged. Sometimes, loose or damaged cables can result in an unstable internet connection.
Check your internet service plan to confirm that you have sufficient bandwidth for streaming on your Roku device. Low internet speeds can lead to buffering and connection problems. Consider upgrading your plan if necessary.
Test your internet speed using an online speed test tool. Aim for a minimum download speed of 3 Mbps for standard definition (SD) streaming and at least 5 Mbps for high definition (HD) streaming.
If your internet speed is within an acceptable range, but you’re still experiencing issues, try connecting your Roku device directly to the modem using an Ethernet cable. This will help determine if the problem is related to Wi-Fi interference.
Disable any VPN or proxy settings on your router or device. These settings can sometimes interfere with the Roku device’s ability to connect to the internet.
Consider reaching out to your internet service provider (ISP) to check for any outages or known issues in your area. They may be able to provide further assistance and troubleshoot any connectivity problems from their end.

By following these steps, you can effectively troubleshoot and identify any potential issues with your internet connection that may be causing problems for your Roku device. If the problem persists, it’s advisable to proceed with the next troubleshooting steps to further diagnose the issue.

Restart your router

If you’re experiencing connectivity issues with your Roku device, restarting your router can often help resolve the problem. This simple step can refresh the router’s settings and clear any temporary issues that may be affecting its performance. Here’s how you can restart your router:

Locate your router. It is usually a small box with antennas connected to it.
Unplug the power cable from the back of the router or from the wall outlet. Wait for about 30 seconds.
While the router is unplugged, take a moment to inspect the cables and ensure they are securely connected.
Plug the power cable back into the router and wait for it to fully reboot. This may take a few minutes.
Once the router has restarted, check if your Roku device can now connect to Wi-Fi and access the internet.
If restarting the router doesn’t resolve the issue, you may need to try other troubleshooting steps or contact your internet service provider for further assistance.

Restarting your router can often fix common connectivity issues by clearing any temporary glitches or conflicts within the router. It’s a simple and effective troubleshooting step that you can try before moving on to more advanced troubleshooting methods.

If restarting the router doesn’t solve the problem, it’s possible that there may be deeper issues with your network setup or with the Roku device itself. In such cases, it’s recommended to proceed with the next troubleshooting steps to further diagnose and resolve the connectivity problem.

Check for software updates

Keeping your Roku device up to date with the latest software is crucial for optimal performance and compatibility. If your Roku device is not connecting to Wi-Fi or the internet, it’s important to check if there are any available software updates. Follow these steps to ensure that your Roku device is running on the latest software version:

On your Roku remote, press the Home button to go to the Home screen.
Scroll up or down and select the Settings option.
In the Settings menu, navigate and select the System option.
Choose the System update option to check for any available updates.
If an update is available, your Roku device will download and install it automatically. This process may take a few minutes, so it’s important to be patient.
Once the update is completed, your Roku device will restart.
Attempt to reconnect your Roku device to your Wi-Fi network and check if the issue has been resolved.
If your Roku device was already running on the latest software version or if the update did not resolve the connectivity problem, continue troubleshooting using the next steps.

Updating the software on your Roku device can often address bugs, security vulnerabilities, and compatibility issues that may be causing connectivity problems. It’s recommended to regularly check for updates to ensure the smooth functioning of your device.

If your Roku device is still not connecting to Wi-Fi or the internet after a software update, proceed with the next troubleshooting steps to further diagnose and resolve the issue.

Reset your network settings on Roku

If you’re encountering connectivity issues with your Roku device, resetting the network settings can be a helpful troubleshooting step. By resetting the network settings, you can clear any saved Wi-Fi networks and start fresh with the setup process. Follow these steps to reset the network settings on your Roku device:

Press the Home button on your Roku remote to go to the Home screen.
Scroll up or down and select the Settings option.
In the Settings menu, navigate and select the Network option.
Choose the “Reset network connection” or “Reset network settings” option.
A confirmation message will appear. Select “Yes” to proceed with the network settings reset.
Your Roku device will restart and display the initial setup screen.
Follow the on-screen instructions to connect your Roku device to your Wi-Fi network.
Once the connection is established, check if your Roku device can now connect to the internet.
If resetting the network settings doesn’t resolve the issue, you may need to proceed with further troubleshooting steps or contact Roku support for assistance.

Resetting the network settings on your Roku device can help eliminate any network-related issues that may be hindering connectivity. It’s a simple process and can be effective in resolving common connection problems.

If the connectivity issue persists after resetting the network settings, it’s advisable to move on to the next troubleshooting steps to further diagnose and address the issue.

Manually enter your Wi-Fi network information

If your Roku device is not connecting to Wi-Fi or the internet, manually entering your Wi-Fi network information can help establish a successful connection. This step is particularly useful when your network is not broadcasting its SSID or if the automatic connection setup is not working. Follow these steps to manually enter your Wi-Fi network information on your Roku device:

Press the Home button on your Roku remote to access the Home screen.
Scroll up or down and select the Settings option.
In the Settings menu, navigate and select the Network option.
Choose the “Set up connection” or “Wireless (Wi-Fi)” option.
Select the “Manually” or “Custom” option to manually enter your network information.
Enter your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) using the virtual keyboard on your screen.
Select the appropriate security type (e.g., WEP, WPA, WPA2) for your Wi-Fi network.
Enter your Wi-Fi network password using the virtual keyboard.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the network setup process.
Your Roku device will attempt to connect to your Wi-Fi network using the provided information.
If the entered information is correct, your Roku device should successfully connect to your Wi-Fi network.

Manually entering your Wi-Fi network information can help establish a connection when automatic methods fail or when specific network settings need to be configured. Ensure that you enter the correct network name (SSID) and password to successfully connect your Roku device to your Wi-Fi network.

If manually entering your Wi-Fi network information does not resolve the connectivity issue, continue with the next troubleshooting steps to further diagnose and address the problem.

Check for Wi-Fi interference

If your Roku device is experiencing connectivity issues, it’s worth investigating if Wi-Fi interference is causing the problem. Wi-Fi interference can disrupt the wireless signal, leading to a weak or unstable connection. Here are some steps to check for Wi-Fi interference:

Survey your surroundings for potential sources of interference. Look for electronic devices like cordless phones, baby monitors, microwave ovens, or other routers and access points nearby. These devices can operate on the same frequency as your Wi-Fi network and cause interference.
Try relocating your Roku device and Wi-Fi router to different positions. Physical obstructions like walls, furniture, or appliances can degrade the Wi-Fi signal strength. Finding an optimal location for both devices can help improve the connection.
Change the Wi-Fi channel on your router. By default, most routers are set to “Auto” for picking the Wi-Fi channel. However, neighboring networks operating on the same channel can cause interference. Access your router’s settings and manually set the Wi-Fi channel to one with less interference. Channels 1, 6, and 11 are typically recommended for 2.4 GHz networks.
Upgrade to a dual-band router. Dual-band routers operate on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies. Switching to the less congested 5 GHz band can reduce interference and provide a more stable Wi-Fi connection.
Consider using a Wi-Fi range extender or a mesh network system if you have a large home or areas with weak Wi-Fi coverage. These devices can help amplify the Wi-Fi signal and eliminate dead zones.
Try adjusting the placement and orientation of the router’s antennas. Positioning the antennas vertically and pointing them in different directions can optimize the Wi-Fi signal distribution.
If none of the above steps resolve the interference issue, you may need to consult with a networking specialist or your internet service provider (ISP) for further guidance.

Identifying and mitigating Wi-Fi interference can significantly improve the connectivity and performance of your Roku device. By following these steps and minimizing interference, you can enhance your overall streaming experience.

If Wi-Fi interference persists after troubleshooting, proceed with the next troubleshooting steps to identify and address any other potential causes of the connectivity problem.

Contact your internet service provider (ISP)

If you have followed the previous troubleshooting steps and your Roku device is still not connecting to Wi-Fi or the internet, it may be time to reach out to your internet service provider (ISP). Your ISP can provide specific assistance and guidance to resolve any underlying issues with your internet connection. Here’s what you can do:

Find the customer support contact information for your ISP. This can usually be found on their website or on your monthly bill.
Call your ISP’s customer support hotline and explain the issue you’re facing with your Roku device. Provide them with any relevant details, such as the troubleshooting steps you have already tried.
Work with the customer support representative to troubleshoot the problem further. They may ask you to perform specific tests or provide information about your network setup.
Allow the representative to assess the situation and offer solutions. They may be able to identify any network-related issues or initiate necessary adjustments on their end.
Follow any instructions or recommendations provided by the customer support representative. They may guide you in configuring your router or diagnosing any network problems that may be impacting your Roku device.
If the representative is unable to resolve the issue over the phone, they may schedule a technician visit to your location to investigate and fix any network-related problems.
During the conversation, don’t hesitate to ask for information, clarification, or updates on the progress of resolving the issue. It’s important to keep communication open and establish a clear understanding of the next steps.
Once the issue has been addressed by your ISP, attempt to reconnect your Roku device to your Wi-Fi network and check if the connectivity problem is resolved.

Contacting your ISP provides you with the opportunity to tap into their expertise and resources to address any underlying internet connection issues. They can help ensure that your internet service is functioning correctly and troubleshoot any problems that may be specific to your network setup or service plan.

If contacting your ISP does not resolve the connectivity issue, move on to the next troubleshooting steps or consider reaching out to Roku support for further assistance.

Contact Roku support

If you have exhausted all the previous troubleshooting steps and are still unable to resolve the connectivity issue with your Roku device, it is advisable to contact Roku support for further assistance. The Roku support team is trained to handle a wide range of device-related problems and can provide targeted guidance to help you get your Roku device back online. Here’s what you can do:

Visit the Roku support website at https://support.roku.com/ to access helpful resources such as troubleshooting guides, FAQs, and user forums. These resources may provide answers to common issues and offer step-by-step instructions for resolving specific problems.
On the Roku support website, navigate to the contact section to find available contact options. This may include options for live chat, email support, or a phone number to reach out to a Roku support representative directly.
Choose the contact option that suits your preferences and best meets your needs. Keep in mind that live chat or phone support may provide more immediate assistance compared to email support.
When contacting Roku support, provide them with detailed information about the connectivity issue you are experiencing. Be ready to provide your Roku device model, software version, and any relevant error messages or troubleshooting steps you have already tried.
Engage in a conversation or exchange emails with the Roku support representative. Follow their instructions, answer any questions they may have, and provide any requested information or screenshots to help them understand the problem better.
Allow the Roku support representative to assess the situation and offer specific solutions. They may guide you through additional troubleshooting steps, provide device-specific recommendations, or explore other possible causes of the connectivity issue.
Ask for clarification or further information if anything is unclear during the support interaction. It’s important to ensure that you understand the troubleshooting steps or recommendations provided.
Follow through with any instructions or recommendations given by the Roku support representative. Test the suggested solutions and check if your Roku device can now connect to Wi-Fi and access the internet.

Contacting Roku support enables you to leverage the expertise of their dedicated support team. They have in-depth knowledge of Roku devices and can provide specialized assistance to resolve complex issues that may be preventing your device from connecting to the internet.

If the issue remains unresolved after seeking help from Roku support, continue exploring additional troubleshooting options or consider consulting with a professional technician to further diagnose and address the problem.