Since 2008, Roku has been leading the way in the digital streaming industry. Over the last decade, Roku and other streaming devices have grown to host a wide-ranging library of apps and channels. From hundreds of free movies to live television streams and even your favorite on-demand streaming services like Netflix and HBO, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy.
Between its extensive app library and visually appealing, easy-to-operate user interface, Roku stands out among its digital streaming competitors. But how do you get started? This guide will show you how to set up Roku and start using TV streaming services immediately.
How to Connect Roku to Your TV
Feeling overwhelmed about how to connect Roku to your television? Don’t worry. Connecting your Roku player or Streaming Stick to your TV is quick and easy.
For table-top box-style Roku devices, you’ll need to first determine which type of connection your television allows. All Roku devices can be connected to your TV via an HDMI cable. If you have an older TV, don’t worry — some Roku devices also come with standard composite audio/video connection capabilities.
If using an HDMI cable, connect one end of the cable to the HDMI-IN port on your TV, and then connect the other end to the Roku player. Note that to make use of HD programming content, you’ll also need to have an HD television. For connecting via Composite, locate the A/V-IN ports on your TV, connect the red/white/yellow cables accordingly, and then plug the other end of the cable into your Roku player.
If you’re using a Roku Streaming Stick, the process is just as simple. Since these sticks work with any HDMI-capable television, you only need to insert the Roku stick into the TV’s HDMI port to establish a connection. Be sure to adjust your TV to the corresponding input source. If your Roku Streaming Stick does not fit your TV’s HDMI port, you can use Roku’s free HDMI extender cable to connect.
How to Connect Roku to Your Home Network
Once your Roku is connected to the TV, the next step is to get it online. With this walkthrough, you should have no problem learning how to connect Roku to your home network.
Once you connect your Roku device and power it on, the guided setup will automatically start. During this phase of the setup, you’ll be prompted to choose between wired and wireless connection. If you access the Internet in your home via Wi-Fi, you’ll need to identify the Wi-Fi network and enter your password. Passwords are case-sensitive, so be sure to use capital letters as needed. If you’re using a wired connection, simply connect an Ethernet cable from your router to the Roku player.
After establishing a connection with your home network, the device will begin downloading the latest available software. Once the software is installed, your Roku device will restart, and you’ll be ready to move to the next step.
How to Set Up Roku
Once you’ve successfully connected your device, you’re ready to learn how to set up Roku for streaming. You’ll need to start by inserting batteries into your Roku remote and go to Settings to complete the setup. After setting up your remote, create a free Roku account by following the instructions on the screen. You’ll be prompted to visit roku.com/link on your phone or computer, where you’ll enter the provided code to activate your account.
After your account is activated, you can browse the home screen for your favorite networks, sports channels, movies, or shows, and start watching!
About the Authors
The Reviews.com staff is dedicated to providing you with all the deep-dive details. Our writers, researchers, and editors came together from Charlotte, Seattle, San Juan, Fort Worth, Fort Lauderdale, San Diego, and Chicago to put this review together.
