How to Fix Roku: Common Roku Issues and Solution 2024

Fix Roku Problems: Roku streaming gadgets are rated the best for a good reason. This company has been positioned as the leader within the U.S. streaming market with Amazon’s Fire TV by releasing high-performance Roku players that are easy to use but also cost-effective. It’s Roku OS is simple and elegant. It offers hundreds of channels, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney Plus, and more. You can also stream Sports, News, Movies, documentaries, TV shows, Cartoons, and Porn on Roku.

However, like many electronic devices, there are times when you may find that your Roku isn’t working. However, Roku problems are generally simple to resolve. If you’re experiencing issues regarding or with your Roku device, read on to learn the best way to fix the issue.

Common Roku issues

There are many issues you can face on Roku. Here are some cases you may encounter on Roku.

• Roku is not turning on
• Roku Remote Not Working
• Roku Internet Connectivity Problem
• Roku is frozen
• Roku is connected but isn’t working
• Roku Audio Issue
• Roku Video Issue
• HDMI Issue
• Fix Roku App Issues
• And more.

How to fix Roku problems

Here are some ways to fix Roku Problems:

1. How to Restart Your Roku (Fix Roku problem)

Restarting your Roku is much more straightforward:

When the remote on your Roku remote is not working:

1. Hit the Home button on the remote
2. Choose settings
3. Select System Restart
4. Select Restart
5. Click OK to confirm.
6. Now, the Roku device will reboot.

If the monitor appears frozen:

1. Hold the Home button for five seconds.
2. Make the Up arrow click once
3. Hit the Rewind button twice
4. Click the button Fast Forward twice times
5. Roku will restart.

If this does not work, reboot the Roku by disconnecting it completely. Wait, and then connect it again.

2. How to Update Roku Software? (Solve Roku problem)

When restarting the Roku device does not resolve the issue, your software might need an upgrade. Roku OS updates are usually made regularly in the background. However, this process could have stalled, and you must determine the need to update the software manually.

1. The Home button is the first button to press on the remote
2. Scroll down to choose Settings
3. Choose System
4. Choose System Update
5. Select Check Now to check manually for updates
6. If a fresh update is available, it is downloaded, installed, and then stored in a sequence. Do not interrupt the installation process.
7. After the update has been installed after the update is installed, it will restart the Roku device will then restart.

3. How to Factory Reset your Roku? ((Fix Roku problem)

In some cases, there are instances where neither restarting your Roku nor installing an update can fix the issue. A factory reset may be an option. However, it’s hazardous and is best used as the last alternative. A reset restores your Roku device to its original condition — just like you bought its box and then opened it. Be cautious when choosing the factory reset, as it erases all your settings, preferences, channel downloads, and network data.

1. Hit the Home button on the remote.  
2. Scroll down to select Settings
3. Select System
4. Choose Advanced System Settings
5. Choose Factory Reset
6. Select Factory Reset Everything

When your system is frozen and not responsive to remote controls, you may do a factory reset using the Physical Reset button. For instance, the Roku Streaming Stick and Streaming Stick+ 4K come with tiny buttons marked Reset. Other devices, like Roku Ultra, and Roku Ultra, have recessed holes. It will require an object like a paperclip to push it.

1. Make sure that the Roku is and on. A white LED indicator should light.
2. Hold the button for 10 minutes. The LED light will flash rapidly up to the point that the reset has been completed.
3. The Roku welcome screen and set-up screen will be displayed.

Here are the Best Free and Paid Roku Channels

4. Roku remote issues

Roku devices have two kinds of remotes. You can choose one that is an Infrared (IR) remote. Or a wireless “point anywhere” enhanced remote.

If your IR Roku remote has stopped functioning, ensure it is in an unobstructed line of sight for the gadget. It is possible that you need to remove obstructions that block the IR signal’s route. If your line of vision doesn’t appear to be stopped, the Roku remote could require new batteries.

If your upgraded Roku remote isn’t functioning, make sure it has new batteries. If your batteries appear in good condition, it could be necessary to restart the device or reconnect it to pair it with your device. Take these steps

1. Eliminate the batteries from the remote.
2. Disconnect to your Roku device and Wait for at least 10 seconds.
3. Connect the device.
4. Insert the batteries back inside the remote.
5. It can take 30 seconds to 1 min for your remote to connect automatically with the gadget.

To pair the remote again to the computer, follow the three steps outlined in the previous paragraph once you’ve inserted the batteries and click the pairing button inside the battery compartment. The light for pairing will start flashing, and then follow the instructions on the screen.

In some cases, the interference from wireless signals can result in problems with upgraded remotes. Suppose you have a Roku Streaming Stick, or Streaming Stick+ plugged into the HDMI port located on the back of your TV. In that case, An HDMI extender cable may assist in separating the Stick from the television’s body which will reduce the number of problems the TV may cause. 

If you own a Roku streaming Stick, Roku will give you the cables for free of cost. There could be excessive traffic on the 2.4GHz frequency used by the remote to connect to the Roku. A solution is to switch your WiFi router to a different network. Another option is to change your Roku to the router’s 5GHz channel if it is connected to one.

5. Fix Roku Overheating

Roku devices may overheat when placed on top of other electronic devices, in a tight space, or exposed to direct sunlight. The device will display an alert about overheating on the screen, or you will see your Roku LED light go red.

Unplug the device, and allow for at least 10 minutes before reconnecting power. If the message of warning or light continues to flash, disconnect it once more and then contact Roku support.

6. Low Power or Roku

Specific Roku devices, including Streaming Sticks and the Roku Express, are powered via the USB connection on your TV. However, there are some exceptions. Not all USB ports can provide sufficient power. If your USB port isn’t supplying enough energy, you’ll see an alert on the screen or notice the Roku LED light change to red.

The solution to the Roku issue is to use a USB power adapter with your device. Roku created its adapters to deliver the right amount of power.

7. How do I fix Roku Wi-Fi issues?

Suppose you’re experiencing poor audio or video quality, the slowness of your Roku in reacting to your commands or notice “not connected” in the upper right-hand corner of the home screen. In that case, you are likely having issues with Wi-Fi. Verifying the strength of your Wi-Fi signal is the best way to begin. Verify the state of your Internet connection by selecting settings and then network. The signal strength is listed as Fair, Excellent, Good, or Poor if you’re connected to a Wi-Fi network. When the signal strength is Fair or Low, you must attempt to improve it.

Naturally, moving your TV will not be an option often; however, you may be able to benefit from moving your Roku itself. Try moving it around and try to see if it aids. Roku Sticks can be difficult to move because they’re typically connected directly to the TV. However, using an HDMI extender cable will give you the additional flexibility that you require to move them.

If your Roku device is equipped with the Ethernet port and you’ve been able to join in with the Ethernet cable, it’s easy to determine whether your Wi-Fi is in the middle.

The “not connected” message on the home screen means you’re either outside the range of your Wi-Fi router, or perhaps you’ve used the incorrect Wi-Fi password to your router. If your smartphone, tablet, or laptop is connected to Wi-Fi within the exact spot as your Roku, it could indicate an issue with the password. Verify your Roku’s settings for network, and then try again.

If you get Roku Error Code 009, it indicates the Roku is in good standing with your router. However, it cannot connect to the Internet. If other Wi-Fi devices are functioning normally, reboot your Roku. If other devices aren’t able to connect, you can try restarting your router and modem, after which you can restart your devices. You need to call the Internet services provider if that doesn’t work.

If you think moving your Roku is impossible, consider moving your Wi-Fi router or altering the external antennas if it has one. Minor changes to your router’s settings can affect how wireless signals are distributed through your home. If you’ve experienced problems with Wi-Fi on some or all of the devices at residence (other than the Roku), it might be worth upgrading to a new router completely.

The mesh network could be the most effective option if your house is more significant than average or has several walls and floors between your entertainment device and your router. A mesh network is a system where your main router broadcasts to smaller “nodes” across your home. Instead of having to fight to pair with the router that you are using, devices like the Roku will have a far simpler connection to one of the satellite nodes of your new network.

8. How do I solve Roku audio issues?

Audio issues on the Roku, such as no audio, audio distortion, or audio dropouts, may be caused by the settings in your software or problems with your equipment and cables based on the complexness of your configuration.

Before trying one of these solutions, it is recommended first to switch off the Roku and other connected devices, disconnect the power for 10 seconds, reconnect it, and turn on your device once more. You’ll be surprised at how many issues, such as audio issues, could be solved by this method.

No audio at all? Examine your connections and the inputs

You may bypass this section if the Roku has a stick gadget linked directly to the TV.

Step 1. Ensure your HDMI, optical, and component cable is correctly plugged into your Roku on one side and into your audio/video receiver or HDMI switcher or soundbar on the other.

Step 2. Check that all your components are running.

Step 3. Ensure you’ve chosen the correct input for the A/V receiver, HDMI switches, or soundbar.

Step 4. Verify the Mute function is active (if you find it, switch it off.

Check your Roku’s Audio Settings.

If the Roku has been connected to an A/V player or soundbar with the optical (TOSLink) cable, you can try the following suggestions:

Step 1. Hit the Home button on Roku remote, and select Settings by scrolling down or up.

Step 2: Choose the Audio option and connect HDMI and S/PDIF to enable Dolby D (Dolby Digital).

If you’re Roku has been linked to your audio/video device, television, or soundbar through HDMI, Try the following

steps 3: Press the Home button on your remote of Rou and scroll it up or down and hit Settings.

Step 4: Select Audio, change your audio settings to Stereo and adjust the HDMI to PCM-Stereo.

To Fix Roku Audio Issue, Switch your Cables

It’s not a lot of people’s experience. However, occasionally, your HDMI optical, optical, or component cables could be inoperable. If none of these solutions previously mentioned have helped fix the issue, you can try replacing your cable(s) with a different set. This could not be easy when you don’t have an additional set; however, the good news is the fact that each of these kinds is affordable and is available in your local stores or on the internet.

9. How do you solve Roku video issues?

Quality issues with videos like stuttering, buffering, or a loss of detail can usually be traced to the network connection. If your Wi-Fi signal is stable, likely, your internet provider doesn’t offer enough bandwidth for the content you want to stream.

Roku recommends the minimal downloading speed that is 3.0 Mbps for standard definition content and upwards of 9.0 Mbps when it comes to HD content. 4K HDR content can require as much as 25 Mbps. You can find your current downloading speed here.

If your service offers the required speed, stream the video you’re watching. You should check whether anyone else at your home is running high-speed apps on their other devices. It is also advisable to look into your router’s administrative settings to see if they are any unidentified devices connected to your network.

How do you manually alter your video’s bit rate?

You’ve attempted everything in the quest to resolve your buffering issues and are ready to quit. There’s another method that may aid.

Typically, your Roku will pick the best bit rate for you in a way that is compatible with your network’s speed. However, occasionally it is necessary to set this manually to take place. It is done through an invisible settings screen:

Step 1. In your Roku remote, then press “Home 5 times.

Step 2. Click the reverse scanner three times the Press forward scan twice.

Step 3. On the Bit Rate Override screen, which is displayed, choose the manual option.

Step 4: Choose a bitrate lower and check whether it solves the issue. If not, go through this procedure and select a lower bit rate.

10. How do I solve Roku HDMI problems?

Another typical Roku issue is related to using HDMI cables. If multiple devices are connected via HDMI, it is necessary to create the “handshake.” The way to think of it is that after the handshake is established, that handshake can regulate the connection with no issue. But, occasionally, the handshake does not occur when the devices are connected, or the handshake is disrupted.

If the issue occurs, it may result in various issues, including black screens and flashing video to HDCP errors. Like most issues, a practical solution is to turn off the power, then remove and reconnect the HDMI cable’s end in each device, and after that, restart.

11. Replace your cables

Although it’s not a common Roku problem, there are times when it’s the HDMI cables themselves can be the source of the issue. If you’re seeing flashing videos or even no video even if you try — or even video that “sparkles,” These could all be signs of damaged cables. Before purchasing new cables, try replacing the Roku’s HDMI cable with another HDMI cable that you own to test. Both wires are likely defective, and if one is working, you’re sure to change the cable that isn’t working.

There’s a scenario where you may have to replace an excellent HDMI cable. 4K HDR signals require lots of bandwidth far greater than HD. The older HDMI cables may not have the bandwidth needed to transfer the entire data safely between devices, particularly over long distances of 10,500 feet and more.

If this is the case in your particular situation, you’ll need to purchase an entirely new Premium High-Speed HDMI Cable. However, don’t fret — they’re not expensive and can be bought virtually everywhere. 

12. How do I Fix Roku app issues?

The Roku application, available for iOS and Android, is an essential add-on to your phone. It acts as a remote replacement and allows you to add and remove channels, use the private listening feature, and even cast photos and videos from your smartphone to your television.

However, none of these things can be done if the app cannot locate your Roku device. Your Wi-Fi connection is probably to be the root of the issue.

Make sure that your smartphone and Roku are connected to the same network

Certain Wi-Fi routers let you create guest networks that are physically distinct from your regular Wi-Fi network. There’s a chance that either your phone or Roku uses two different networks. If this is the case, they will not be able to see each other. Be sure that both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

Most Wi-Fi routers set up two separate networks per Band of Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz). Although technically, it doesn’t be a problem if your phone or Roku use various frequencies (both bands belong to the same subnet of your router, allowing devices to communicate with each other). To be specific, make sure you put both your phone and Roku in the same frequency band.

Verify the Roku’s network access

Access to the network to your Roku may be blocked. Here’s how you can check and confirm:

Step 1: Hit the home button of the Roku remote, and then choose Settings, then System, and finally Advanced System Settings.

Step 2. Click the External Control, then click Network Access.

Step 3. Select Permissive or Default. Default is a good choice; If not, go with Permissive.

Last Words

This guide is a collection of common issues and solutions to fix Roku TV. I hope you have found it helpful. Please share it with your friends.