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If your Roku won’t connect to Wi-Fi, first check that you selected the right network and entered its case-sensitive password. Then see whether another device can use the same Wi-Fi, restart the Roku and router, and run Roku’s on-device connection test. These checks help distinguish a password mistake from weak signal, a router problem, or an internet-service outage.
Start with the network name and password
- On the Roku, open Settings > Network > Set up connection > Wireless and select your home Wi-Fi network. Menu wording can vary by device and Roku OS version.
- Enter the Wi-Fi password carefully; it is case-sensitive. If the network does not appear, select Scan again.
- If you recently changed your router’s network name or password, make sure you are using the current details rather than saved credentials for the old network.
Roku’s network name and password guidance explains the connection requirement. The network credentials are for the Wi-Fi network, not your Roku account.
Find out whether the problem is the Roku or the whole network
Try connecting a phone, tablet, or laptop to the same Wi-Fi network. If that device also cannot connect or reach the internet, the problem is likely outside the Roku; Roku recommends contacting your internet provider when other devices also fail. If other devices work, continue with the Roku-specific checks below.
Restart the Roku and network equipment
- Unplug the Roku player or TV from power.
- Unplug the router and modem. If they are a combined gateway, there is only one network device to unplug.
- Wait at least 10 seconds, then reconnect the modem/router and allow it to come fully online.
- Reconnect the Roku to power and try Wi-Fi again.
Roku’s setup guidance advises unplugging the player and router for 10 seconds when setup fails. Its connection troubleshooting guidance also covers restarting the Roku and network equipment.
#1 Best Overall
- HD streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Compact without compromises: The sleek design of Roku Streaming Stick won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- TV, simplified: With setup that only takes minutes, a simple-to-navigate Home Screen, and an uncluttered remote control that does all you need—Roku makes it easier to watch the TV you love.
Use Roku’s connection test to choose the next step
Open Settings > Network and choose the connection-check option available on your device, such as Check connection or Check status. The test reports network status and can show signal information or an internet connection result; labels and screens differ across models and software versions.
- Wi-Fi connection fails: Recheck the selected network and password, then rescan or restart the devices.
- Wi-Fi connects but internet access fails: Investigate the router, modem, or internet service. Check whether another device can reach the internet on the same network.
- Connection succeeds but video buffers or stutters: Check the signal at the Roku, other devices’ network activity, and available internet speed. A successful connection does not guarantee smooth streaming.
See Roku’s connection-check and speed guidance for more detail.
Rank #2
- Ultra-speedy streaming: Roku Ultra is 30% faster than any other Roku player, delivering a lightning-fast interface and apps that launch in a snap.
- Cinematic streaming: This TV streaming device brings the movie theater to your living room with spectacular 4K, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision picture alongside immersive Dolby Atmos audio.
- The ultimate Roku remote: The rechargeable Roku Voice Remote Pro offers backlit buttons, hands-free voice controls, and a lost remote finder.
- No more fumbling in the dark: See what you’re pressing with backlit buttons.
- Say goodbye to batteries: Keep your remote powered for months on a single charge.
If the signal is weak, improve placement before changing settings
Roku’s Canadian support guidance describes signal quality as Poor, Fair, Good, or Excellent. If the test indicates a weak signal, try these changes one at a time:
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches- Move the Roku closer to the router, if practical.
- Reduce competing network activity, such as downloads or other streams, while testing.
- Keep the router and Roku away from sources of wireless interference where possible.
- Use Roku’s network connection reset option if available, then reconnect to Wi-Fi.
Roku’s signal and connection guidance describes these checks. If signal is good but internet access is not, focus on the router or service rather than relocating the Roku.
Rank #3
- 4K streaming made simple:With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- 4K picture quality: With Roku Streaming Stick Plus, watch your favorites with brilliant 4K picture and vivid HDR color.
- Compact without compromises: Our sleek design won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
Know what Roku error codes point to
Roku’s troubleshooting page associates the following codes with these actions. Code display and menus can vary by device and Roku OS version, so follow the on-screen advice if it differs.
| Code(s) | Likely issue | What to try |
|---|---|---|
| 14.40, 14.41, 14, 014 | Wi-Fi password or authentication problem | Re-enter the password carefully, checking capitalization. |
| 14.20, 14.62, 14.64, 016, 017 | Weak wireless signal | Move the Roku closer to the router and restart the Roku and router. |
| 012, 013 | Ethernet cable connection issue | Reseat the cable, wait 10 seconds, try another cable, or use Wi-Fi. |
| 018 | Slow internet connection | Move the Roku closer to the router and restart the modem/router. |
| 009, 14, 14.10, 14.11, 14.30, 14.50, 14.62, 14.64 | General inability to connect to the internet | Check other devices, restart equipment, and use the connection test to isolate Wi-Fi from internet access. |
| 003 | Update failure | Improve signal, restart devices, and contact the internet provider if it persists. |
When to check Wi-Fi bands, channels, or a wired connection
Try another supported Wi-Fi band
Do not assume every Roku streaming player or Roku TV requires 2.4 GHz. Roku’s advanced network guidance says that when both the router and Roku support 5 GHz, trying that band may help. Some mesh systems combine 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz under one network name, so you may not be able to choose a band separately on the Roku.
Rank #4
- Stunning 4K and Dolby Vision streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Breathtaking picture quality: Stunningly sharp 4K picture brings out rich detail in your entertainment with four times the resolution of HD. Watch as colors pop off your screen and enjoy lifelike clarity with Dolby Vision and HDR10+.
- Seamless streaming for any room: With Roku Streaming Stick 4K, watch your favorite entertainment on any TV in the house, even in rooms farther from your router thanks to the long-range Wi-Fi receiver.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- Compact without compromises: Our sleek design won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, so you can switch from streaming to gaming with ease. Plus, it’s designed to stay hidden behind your TV, keeping wires neatly out of sight
Support varies by Roku model and router. Roku notes that some devices do not support certain DFS channels. Its channel guidance discusses 5 GHz channels 36–165 and, for North America, 2.4 GHz channels 1, 6, or 11 when manually selecting a channel. Do not change router channels unless you can verify that the selected channel is compatible with your exact Roku model and local settings.
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Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteThe separate 2.4 GHz requirement in Roku’s network name and password article applies to setting up Roku Smart Home cameras or doorbells; it does not establish a universal 2.4 GHz requirement for streaming players or Roku TVs.
Best Value
- Streaming made easy: Roku Express lets you stream free, live and premium TV over the Internet—right to your TV. It’s perfect for new users, secondary TVs and easy gifting—but powerful enough for seasoned pros
- Quick and easy setup: Just plug it into your TV with the included High Speed HDMI Cable and connect to the internet to get started
- Tons of power, tons of fun: Compact and power-packed, you’ll stream your favorites with ease; from movies and series on Apple TV, Prime Video, Netflix, The Roku Channel, HBO, Showtime and Google Play to cable alternatives like Hulu with Live TV and PlayStation Vue, enjoy the most talked about TV across free and paid channels
- Low cost, no extra fees: For under $30, Roku Express streaming device includes a High Speed HDMI Cable—and there’s no monthly equipment fee; with access to free TV on hundreds of channels, there’s plenty to stream without spending extra
- Simple remote: Incredibly easy to use, this remote features shortcut buttons to popular streaming channels
Use Ethernet only if your exact Roku supports it
A wired connection can avoid a weak Wi-Fi signal, but Ethernet is not available on every Roku. Some models have an Ethernet port; some players may work with a compatible USB Ethernet adapter. Check the model’s specifications and Roku’s network setup guidance before buying a cable or adapter. A wired connection will not fix an internet-service or router fault.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Speed figures and buffering
Roku’s connection-check article lists typical download-speed requirements of 3 Mbps for SD, 5 Mbps for HD, and 25 Mbps or more for 4K Ultra HD. The source does not state a year for these figures. They are typical requirements, not guarantees: app-specific minimums, congestion, and other devices using bandwidth can affect playback. If a speed result looks adequate but video still stutters, Roku recommends checking for other devices consuming bandwidth and noting that streaming apps may set their own requirements.
Save factory reset for last
Factory reset erases the Roku’s settings and means setting it up again. Roku describes it as an extreme, last-resort step. Try the network, restart, signal, and compatibility checks first; consult Roku’s troubleshooting guidance for the reset path and current device-specific instructions.
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