To set up Roku on my TV, plug the Roku streaming player into an HDMI port, power it on, and follow the on-screen prompts to connect to Wi-Fi and activate your device. For a Roku TV, the operating system is built in, so you only need to plug in the TV, connect to your network, and sign in to your Roku account. Once you're set up, you can add channels like cbs interactive on Roku to stream live TV and on-demand shows.
Before you set up your Roku on your TV
You need three things: a Roku player or Roku TV, a TV with an HDMI port, and a Wi-Fi network. If you have a Roku streaming player, it connects to your TV via HDMI. If you have a Roku TV, the Roku OS is already built in, so no external device is required.
Connect and power on your Roku
For a Roku streaming player, plug the device into an available HDMI port on your TV, then connect it to power using the included adapter. For a Roku TV, unbox the TV, attach the stands or mount it, and plug in the power cord. Turn on your TV, then use your TV remote to select the correct HDMI input that matches the port where you connected your Roku player. You should see the Roku logo appear on the screen.
Select the correct HDMI input
Press the "Input" or "Source" button on your TV remote and cycle through the options until you see the Roku home screen. If you see a blank screen, double-check that the HDMI cable is fully seated in both the Roku device and the TV port.
Complete the on-screen guided setup
Once the Roku logo appears, the guided setup begins automatically. Use the Roku remote to select your preferred language, then choose your Wi-Fi network from the list and enter the password. After connecting, the Roku device will check for and install any available software updates. This may take a few minutes, and the device will restart once the update is complete.
Pair the remote
If your Roku remote does not respond during setup, remove the batteries, unplug the Roku device for a few seconds, plug it back in, and re-insert the batteries. Press any button on the remote to pair it with the device.
Activate your Roku with a phone or computer
After the software update, your TV will display an activation code. On a separate device, open a web browser and go to the Roku activation link shown on the screen, or scan the QR code with your phone. Enter the code, then sign in to your Roku account or create a new one for free. Activation is always free, and Roku will never charge a fee to create an account. You may be asked for a payment method during account setup, but you will only be charged if you choose to buy content or subscriptions later.
Link your Roku device to your account
After entering the activation code, confirm that you want to link the device to your account. The TV will show a confirmation message once the activation is complete, and your Roku will restart and load the home screen.
What to do after setup
Go to the Roku home screen and select "Streaming Channels" to browse and add apps like Netflix, Hulu, or Prime Video. The Roku platform itself is free, but individual channels may require their own paid subscriptions. You can add or remove channels at any time, and rearrange them on your home screen to match your preferences.
Troubleshooting common setup issues
If you see no picture on the TV, confirm the Roku device is powered on and that you selected the correct HDMI input. Try connecting the Roku directly to the TV if you are using an HDMI switch or audio-video receiver. If Wi-Fi connection failures occur, restart your router and Roku device, check your internet speed, or move the Roku closer to the router. If the remote is unresponsive, replace the batteries or re-pair the remote by removing the batteries, unplugging the Roku, waiting a few seconds, and plugging it back in. If you still need help, you can contact Roku directly through the support section on their website. If you want to get Roku on your smart TV without a separate player, note that Roku offers a Smart TV app for select models, but the full Roku experience requires a Roku TV or a streaming player. If issues persist after troubleshooting, check for software updates in the Settings menu under System, then System Update.
