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Troubleshooting

Roku phone remote after moving to a new Wi-Fi network

The Roku app can’t send a new Wi-Fi password to a Roku that is offline. The app talks to the Roku over your home network, so when the old router is gone the app has no route to it. The quickest way back is to make the Roku see its old network again for a few minutes, using a hotspot, or to plug it into Ethernet.

By TV Remotely · Updated · Sources and testing policy

Three ways to get a Roku back online

  1. Hotspot with the old Wi-Fi name and password: on a second phone, turn on a hotspot using the exact old network name and password. On iPhone enable Maximize Compatibility; on Android pick 2.4 GHz.

    The Roku rejoins the network it remembers.

    If it doesn’t, check capital letters and security type. Roku stores the exact name, and on some models it won’t join a 5 GHz-only hotspot.

  2. Ethernet: Roku Ultra and most Roku TVs have an Ethernet port; most sticks do not. Plug the Roku into the router with a cable.

    The Roku is on your network and visible to the Roku app within a minute or two.

    If it still doesn’t appear, check the Roku’s network screen and the phone’s Wi-Fi network.

  3. Replacement remote: Roku’s inexpensive IR remotes need no pairing, point at the Roku and press buttons. A voice or point-anywhere remote must be paired: hold the pairing button inside the battery compartment for about 5 seconds until the light flashes.

    You can navigate to Settings → Network without the app.

    If an enhanced remote won’t pair, check the batteries and that you are holding the pairing button, not pressing it.

Move the Roku to the new network

Once the Roku is reachable (through any of the three), use the app’s remote to open Settings → Network → Set up connection → Wireless and pick the new network. Keep your phone on a network that can still reach the Roku until it says it is connected, then switch the phone to the new Wi-Fi and reopen the app. If you used Ethernet, you can leave it plugged in; Ethernet is usually the more reliable connection for a Roku.

Quick checks that save time

  • A Roku’s IP address answers a web request on port 8060. If your phone’s browser opens http://ROKU_IP:8060/query/device-info and shows XML, the network path is fine and any remaining problem is in the Roku app or its settings.
  • Settings → System → Advanced system settings → Control by mobile apps controls what apps are allowed to send; the guide in the related links covers its options. If it is on Disabled, the Roku appears but buttons don’t work.
  • A phone on a guest network often can’t see the Roku. Join the main network.

Related guidance

Sources for these instructions