Connect your Roku to WiFi or ethernet to watch streaming apps

Your Roku needs an internet connection to stream shows, movies, and music. You can connect it either wirelessly through WiFi or with an ethernet cable plugged directly into the device. Most Rokus have WiFi built in, but some older models need an ethernet adapter. The connection process takes a few minutes and you only have to do it once — your Roku remembers the network after that.

If you already have home WiFi or an ethernet cable running to your TV, you have everything you need. If you don't have either, you'll need to set up internet service first through an internet service provider in your area.

Key Takeaways

  • Most Roku devices connect to WiFi automatically during setup, but you can also use an ethernet cable for a more stable connection.
  • You need a WiFi network name and password, or an ethernet cable connected to your router, to complete the connection.
  • If your Roku doesn't find your WiFi network, move your router closer to the device or restart both the Roku and router.
  • Once connected, your Roku remembers the network and reconnects automatically when you turn it on.

Connect through WiFi during initial setup

When you first plug in a Roku, it walks you through setup automatically. The device will ask you to select your WiFi network from a list of available networks in your home. Choose your network name (called the SSID), then enter your WiFi password. The Roku will test the connection and let you know if it worked.

If you skip this step during setup, you can connect later by going to Settings > Network > WiFi on your Roku remote. Select your network and enter the password the same way. Your Roku will stay connected to that network until you manually disconnect it or change your WiFi password.

Use an ethernet cable for a wired connection

An ethernet cable plugged directly into your router gives you a more stable connection than WiFi, especially if your router is far from your TV or if you have thick walls between them. Most newer Roku models have an ethernet port on the back. Plug one end of an ethernet cable into your router and the other into your Roku.

Your Roku should recognize the connection automatically. If it doesn't, go to Settings > Network and look for the ethernet option. Older Roku models without a built-in ethernet port need a separate USB ethernet adapter, which you can buy online for $15 to $30. Plug the adapter into the Roku's USB port, then connect the ethernet cable to the adapter.

Troubleshoot when your Roku won't connect

If your Roku can't find your WiFi network, the most common fix is to move your router closer to the device temporarily. WiFi signals weaken through walls and distance. Try placing the router in the same room as your TV, then attempt to connect again. Once connected, you can move the router back to its original location.

If your Roku still doesn't see the network, restart both devices. Unplug your router for 30 seconds, plug it back in, and wait for it to fully restart (usually 2 to 3 minutes). Then restart your Roku by going to Settings > System > Power > Restart. After both devices restart, try connecting again.

If you've entered your WiFi password and the connection fails, double-check that you're typing it correctly. WiFi passwords are case-sensitive, meaning capital letters matter. If you're unsure of your password, check the sticker on your router or log into your router's settings through a computer or phone to see or reset the password.

What to do if you don't have WiFi at home

If you don't have home internet, you'll need to set up service through an internet service provider. Contact providers in your area to compare speeds and prices — availability and cost vary significantly by location. Once you have service installed, you'll receive a router, and you can then connect your Roku using the steps above.

Some people use mobile hotspot as a temporary solution. If your phone has a data plan, you can turn on its hotspot feature and connect your Roku to it the same way you'd connect to home WiFi. Keep in mind that streaming uses a lot of data, so this works better for occasional use than for daily watching.

Check your internet speed if streaming is slow or choppy

If your Roku connects but shows buffering, freezing, or low video quality, your internet speed may be too slow. You can test your speed using a computer or phone connected to the same WiFi. Search for "internet speed test" and run one through a site like Speedtest.net. Streaming typically needs at least 5 to 10 megabits per second (Mbps) for standard quality and 25 Mbps for 4K quality.

If your speed is lower than those numbers, try moving your router closer to your Roku, or switch to an ethernet cable if your Roku supports it. If speeds are consistently low, contact your internet service provider — they may be able to increase your speed or troubleshoot the connection on their end.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Roku subscription to use the internet connection?

No. Your Roku connects to the internet for free once you have home WiFi or ethernet. Some streaming apps like Netflix or Disney+ require their own subscriptions, but the Roku device itself doesn't charge a monthly fee for internet access.

Can I use my phone's WiFi hotspot with my Roku?

Yes. Turn on your phone's hotspot feature, then connect your Roku to it like any other WiFi network. Your phone will use its data plan, so streaming will count against your monthly data limit. This works for occasional use but isn't practical for heavy streaming.

Why does my Roku keep disconnecting from WiFi?

Frequent disconnections usually mean your router is too far away or there's interference from other devices. Try moving the router closer, or switch to an ethernet cable for a stable connection. If disconnections continue, restart both your router and Roku, or contact your internet service provider to check for network issues.

What if my Roku model is very old and doesn't have WiFi?

Older Roku models without built-in WiFi need a USB WiFi adapter or an ethernet adapter. You can buy these online for $15 to $40. Plug the adapter into your Roku's USB port, then connect it to your network the same way as a newer device.