How to connect Roku TV to Wi-Fi

Popcorn and soda in hand, you sit down to stream a few episodes of your favorite show. But something's wrong. Your Roku TV™ won't connect to the internet, and you can't view any available streaming content. 

Asurion Experts resolve your toughest tech questions. Whether we're explaining how to set up a secure Wi-Fi connection or choose the best Wi-Fi router, you can count on us for clear guidance. Here's what to do if your Roku TV is not connecting to Wi-Fi.

Check your current Roku TV internet connection

Start by checking your existing Roku Wi-Fi connection status. These steps explore connection strength and stability. A connection that's too slow may prevent you from viewing available Roku content.

1. Press the Home button on your Roku remote.
2. Select Settings > Network.
3. Select Check connection.

Wait for the tests to complete. You'll see a green check next to each successful test. Failed tests display a red 'X' instead of the green check. You can view an in-depth report of connection test results in the Settings menu.

1. Press the Home button on your Roku remote.
2. Select Settings > Network.
3. Select About.

The About page details your network status, signal strength, download speeds, and connection type. Based on your streaming resolution, you want a download speed that meets or exceeds the baselines below to avoid buffering and connection issues. 

• Standard Definition (SD): 3 Mbps
• High Definition (HD): 5 Mbps
• Ultra High Definition (UHD) or 4K: Up to 25 Mbps 
• Ultra High Definition (UHD) 8K: Up to 30 Mbps or more

Also, review signal strength ratings. Good and Excellent indicate your device shouldn't have any issues streaming content. Roku TVs with a Fair or Poor signal strength may experience playback or connection problems. 

Failed wireless connection test

If the connection test results display an 'X' for Wireless connection, your Roku TV isn't connected to the router. Follow these steps to re-enable the connection.

1. Press the Home button on your Roku remote.
2. Select Settings > Network > Set up connection.
3. Select Wireless.
4. Locate your Wi-Fi network from the available options.
5. Enter the password if prompted. 

If your network doesn't appear in the list, check your router to confirm it's turned on. Select Scan again to see all networks and choose your Wi-Fi from the options. Enter the password to connect. 

Failed internet connection test

A failed internet connection test indicates a problem with your internet service or Roku TV. Restarting the TV and router clears out temporary bugs that interfere with your connection. Turn off your device and unplug the router from its power source. Wait at least 30 seconds before turning them back on. Allow up to five minutes for the router to restore the network, then try using your Roku TV again.

If that doesn't work, check if other devices in your home have internet access. Use a smartphone or laptop to access a website. If you can't view the site, there may be a service outage in your area. Contact your internet service provider for more information. 

Managing Wi-Fi networks on Roku

You can always update your Wi-Fi connection if you replace your router or add a new home network. 

1. Press the Home button on your Roku remote.
2. Select Settings > Network > Set up connection.
3. Select Wireless.
4. Locate your Wi-Fi network from the available options.
5. Enter the password if prompted. 

Take care to enter the right password. Missing numbers or letters can prevent you from connecting to the network. Many routers list default password information on a sticker placed on their exterior. Alternatively, you can locate the password through stored settings on another device in your home, such as a computer or smartphone. 

When Roku refuses to connect

If your Roku TV continues to disconnect from Wi-Fi, consider your router's placement. A router that's far away from the TV may not provide a strong enough signal to prevent buffering. It's best practice to center routers in the middle of your home so there are fewer walls for the signal to pass through.

You can also try a wired connection from the router to the Roku TV. To set it up, insert an Ethernet cable into your router and connect it to your TV. Adjust your network settings to finalize the connection.

1. Press the Home button on your Roku remote.
2. Select Settings > Network > Set up connection.
3. Select Wired. 

You should experience fewer disruptions with the wired connection. If problems persist, reach out to Asurion for tech support.