Cloudwards.net may earn a small commission from some purchases made through our site. However, any affiliate earnings do not affect how we review services. Show Is your Roku not working? Do you need some help reviving it? This Roku troubleshooting guide will help you fix some of the common problems associated with both Roku streaming players and Roku remotes. Technology is constantly evolving, but no matter how good it gets, it’s likely that
you’ll still experience issues now and then. Although Roku came out a while ago, the devices are no exception to this, but it’s often something simple that doesn’t take long to resolve. In this guide, we’ll list common fixes that can solve multiple Roku issues, and we’ll give the spotlight to any
separate issues, too. Before taking drastic measures — such as performing a factory reset — we suggest you try all of the more obvious fixes. Depending on your issue, that can include checking wires, connections and your input settings. The input setting is especially important if you have a “no signal” message on your Roku. Similarly, if you have no picture at all, it’s a good idea to check your resolution settings. Pros: Cons:
In this section, we’ll show you how to restart and reset your Roku. We’ll also show you how to update your Roku in case the automatic update procedure has been interrupted or didn’t work. These methods can fix multiple problems:
How to Turn Off RokuIn some cases, your Roku may just need to be rebooted. There are two ways to do this, though, and your issue will determine which method you use. If your Roku is still responsive, you can restart via the settings menu; otherwise, you’ll need to follow a button sequence. We have a dedicated guide on how to turn off Roku, but we’ll quickly run through the steps below. How to Restart Roku Through the Settings MenuHow to Restart Roku ManuallyFollow this button sequence precisely with your Roku remote and your Roku device will restart. We’ve provided pictures of the Roku Enhanced remote. If you have the standard IR remote, it will look a little different but you’ll still be able to follow the sequence.
How to Reset RokuBefore you dive in and hard reset your Roku, you must understand that by doing so you will erase all of your settings and preferences. It’s a complete factory reset that will return your Roku device to its original state. Like with restarting your Roku device, there are two ways you can do it: through the settings menu or by using the reset button on the device. The second method is the best if your Roku is unresponsive, but either way will have the same outcome. Performing a factory reset is a good idea if you are returning, gifting or selling your Roku device. It will ensure that none of your personal information or Roku account data is left on the device, and the new user can set it up as if they are the first owner. How to Factory Reset Roku Using the Reset Button
How to Update Roku SoftwareRoku devices not only check that they have the latest software installed upon initial setup, but they also receive automatic software updates as long as they are connected to the internet. That ensures you’re always up to date with both the Roku software and Roku channels, as well as any bug fixes. You won’t even notice it’s being done, too. However, there can be times when the download or installation fails or gets interrupted. Additionally, you may simply have left your Roku disconnected for a while, leaving you behind in the Roku update world. That can lead to device failure and all sorts of annoying issues, not to mention any security risks that may have been patched. Thankfully, Roku has made it possible to check for updates manually, too. The updates are completely free, so don’t fall victim to Roku scams, where scammers make you think you should pay for an update. Here’s how you update your Roku software manually.
Roku OverheatingIt’s important to ensure that your Roku is not kept in an enclosed space, on top of other devices that can get hot or in direct sunlight. If you see a “your device is overheating” warning or you see a solid red light on your Roku, your device is too hot. A solid red light or on-screen message warns you that the Roku is overheating. Unplug your Roku, allow it to cool down for at least 10 minutes and find a better location for it. If you power it back on and see a red light or the warning message, unplug it straight away. If the problem persists, contact Roku Support. Roku Low PowerSome Roku devices can be powered via a USB port on your TV, but not all USB ports are sufficient. If you see a red flashing light or a “low power” warning, that means your Roku isn’t getting enough power. Your Roku may still work, but it can crash or behave differently at any time. A flashing red light or on-screen message indicates that the Roku has insufficient power. To resolve this issue, first, ensure that you are using the USB cable that came with your Roku, as others may not be suitable. After that, either try a different USB port or plug it into a wall outlet with a power adaptor. Roku Remote Not WorkingIf your Roku remote has stopped working, resetting the remote can fix issues such as:
Check your Roku remote’s batteries. It might sound like the most obvious thing to check, but it can also be overlooked or forgotten. Many Roku remote problems can be resolved by simply changing the batteries. Keep in mind that a Roku Enhanced remote may need to be re-paired with your Roku device. Also, if you have a Roku Streaming Stick+, the fact that it is directly plugged into your TV’s HDMI port can sometimes result in interference from the connection affecting the performance of your remote. If that seems to be the issue, you can request a free HDMI cable extender from Roku that will allow you to move the device away from the HDMI connection. We’ll go over the steps on how to reset your Roku remote control. However, there are two different types of Roku remotes — the standard infrared (IR) remote and the enhanced “point anywhere” remote — and you need to determine which one you have. To do that, simply remove the battery compartment cover and see if it has a pairing button. If your remote has a pairing button, then you have a Roku Enhanced remote. Remove the battery compartment to see if you have the Roku Enhanced remote. Keep in mind that you may need to replace your Roku remote if none of the troubleshooting steps fix your problem. If you do, be sure to check which remote is compatible with your Roku device before purchasing. Roku Standard IR Remote Not WorkingAn IR remote works by sending a signal via infrared (IR) light from your remote’s IR transmitter to your Roku player’s IR receiver. It works by line of sight, so in order for the signal to be reliable, there mustn’t be anything blocking it. The remote needs to be able to point directly to your Roku device. Ensure you can see your Roku device from where you are pointing your remote. If you find the remote to be more responsive in different positions, make sure that nothing is blocking the signal’s path. If you have placed your Roku device behind your TV screen for tidiness, try relocating it to somewhere more visible. How to Reset Roku Enhanced RemoteThe enhanced “point anywhere” remote is a little more complex than the standard IR remote. It connects over a network by pairing with your Roku device, meaning you can point it anywhere and still be able to control your Roku device. Because of its complexity, there are a few more things that can go wrong with the Roku Enhanced remote. In this section, we’ll provide different methods that might help fix your problem. If you have a spare Roku remote or the Roku mobile app, you can go through the steps for restarting your Roku device through the settings menu. Restart Both Your Roku Device and Roku Remote
Re-Pair the Remote With Your Roku DeviceIn some instances, the remote can become unpaired from your Roku device. Follow the next steps to re-pair your remote.
If you have a spare remote or the Roku mobile app, you can restart your Roku device through the settings menu. Connect Your Roku Player to 5 GHz WirelessIf you have a wireless connection instead of a Roku with Ethernet cable, as long as your router supports 5 GHz, you can connect your Roku device to a 5 GHz network. However, you’ll need to change some settings within your router, so only do this if you’re comfortable tinkering. Plus, all routers are different, so you’ll either need to know your way around your router’s settings already or have its manual handy.
Change Your Router’s Wireless ChannelAs with the last suggestion, only attempt this if you are comfortable tinkering with your router’s settings. All routers are different so although we won’t provide an exact step-by-step with images, this should still help you get to the right settings.
If you’ve tried all of the troubleshooting tips in this guide but you’re still experiencing the same issue, you can contact Roku support for help. We’ll quickly show you how to do that.
Final ThoughtsRoku devices are great for streaming your favorite shows and movies, but they’re not without issues. This Roku troubleshooting guide will fix the most common issues associated with them, but if you’re still stuck, you can contact Roku support, too. Although we hope you manage to fix your issue, take a look at our Roku buyer’s guide if you need to invest in a new one. We also have a guide to the best free Roku channels, and our best VPN for Roku guide can help if you want to access channels and services that aren’t available in your region. You can also check out our guide on how to cast to Roku if you’re having trouble with that. Have we missed anything in this Roku help guide? Are you having problems with your Roku not working? Let us know in the comment section and we’ll be happy to help. As always, thank you for reading. Why is my Roku saying not connected?If you are unable to connect to the internet, try restarting your router. Improve the strength of your wireless signal. If resetting your router does not improve your connection, the issue may be the strength of the wireless signal. The farther your Roku device is from your router, the weaker your wireless signal.
What do you do if your TV says not connected?Power reset your modem/router
Unplug the power cable to your modem/router and wait about 60 seconds. Reconnect the power cable to your modem/router and make sure it's turned on. Wait until the device is finished making it's connection to the internet and your network. Perform the network diagnosis.
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