Does your Roku keep restarting?
Some of the reasons why your Roku device keeps on restarting include automatic update issues, overheating, glitches in certain channels/apps, power fluctuations, or remote-control failures.
Luckily, these issues are easy to resolve.
Begin by restarting your Roku in the ‘Settings’ or manually by unplugging it from the power source and waiting for about 15 to 20 seconds then plugging it back.
Additionally, you can check for overheating by touching it, doing a software update, and checking the power supply.
Follow our expert tricks and tips mentioned in this article to troubleshoot the issue and get back to enjoying your favorite movies and shows in no time.
Key Points
- Roku frequently restarting is a common issue which is mainly caused by overheating, software updates, power fluctuations or hardware issues.
- Try restarting your device first to see if that resolves the issue. If that does not work, check cable connections, internet connection, device overheating and as a last resort, run a factory reset.
- Do not mess around with the device hardware as doing so can void your warranty. Contact customer service if you are unable to resolve the issue.
Reasons Why Your Roku Keeps Restarting
Below are some of the main reasons why your Roku keeps restarting itself:
- Overheating – when your Roku overheats, it will power off and restart to cool down. Your Roku device is overheating if it is hot when you touch it. This can be due to a faulty fan, poor ventilation, or putting the device in a place that receives direct sunlight.
- Software update – if there is a software update available, your Roku will download and install it automatically. But if there are problems during the installation process, your Roku can restart.
- Power fluctuations – your Roku can restart if there is a sudden surge or drop in voltage.
- Hardware malfunction – constant restart can be caused by an issue in the hardware.
- Roku bandwidth saver feature – this feature saves bandwidth by reducing the quality of your video stream, but it can cause your device to restart.
- Glitches in a specific channel or app.
Other reasons include:
- HDMI cable failure.
- Remote control failures.
- Faulty cable and adapter.
- Memory shortage.
- Network connectivity.
- Outdated software.
Easy Solutions If Your Roku Keeps Restarting
The following are some of the easy solutions that you can try to stop your Roku from constantly restarting:
#1. Perform a Hard Restart
When you restart your Roku, it means that you are clearing its running memory, and any faulty code that was causing the issue will be deleted.
Here are the steps for doing a hard restart on your Roku:
- On your Roku remote, press the home button.
- Go to the Settings menu using the up or down buttons and click on System.
- Choose the System Restart option and tap on Restart.
Additionally, you can manually reboot your Roku by disconnecting it from the power outlet, letting it rest for 15 to 20 seconds, and then reconnecting it back.
#2. Update Firmware
You should keep your device updated as Roku constantly releases bug fixes in firmware updates.
Updating the firmware not only fixes existing problems but also adds extra features. Normally, Roku automatically updates itself, but you can also update it manually.
Here are the steps to update your Roku’s firmware:
- Take your Roku remote and press the Home button.
- Go to Settings then choose System.
- Choose System Update and click on Check Now.
- If there is an update, let your Roku update it.
#3. Check Power Supply
If your Roku is not receiving enough power, it will restart. To prevent this problem, ensure that you are using a genuine wall power supply that is specifically made for your Roku.
If you have plugged a Roku Streaming Stick into the USB port, your TV may not be sending enough power to it.
This problem can be resolved by resetting your TV. Disconnect it from the power outlet for around 10 minutes and then reconnect it.
This reset will refresh the USB hardware and allow sufficient power to be sent to the Roku Streaming Stick. Additionally, ensure that the power cables are not damaged and are connected securely.
#4. Check the HDMI Cables
If the HDMI connection is not working properly, your Roku will have some issues. This happens if the cable is not connected properly or if it is damaged.
To fix this issue, check your HDMI connection to ensure that the cable is not damaged or bent and that the wire is firmly connected to the HDMI port on your TV.
Also, you can try disconnecting the HDMI cable and reconnecting it back into a different HDMI port.
If you are certain the HDMI cable is causing the issue, replace it with a new cable.
#5. Good WiFi Signal Strength
Sometimes, a poor signal may cause your Roku to restart, even though it is rare. To prevent this, check your internet connection and test the strength of your connection using speed testing services available online.
If a lot of people are using the same WiFi, performance can be affected.
Therefore, to free up some bandwidth space to be used by your Roku, try using another channel. Also, you can use a different frequency band if your WiFi device uses two frequencies.
#6. Check for Overheating
The electronic components on your Roku can be damaged if the device overheats. That is why, as a safety precaution, Roku is designed to shut off automatically if it starts overheating.
In case of overheating, you need to unplug the Roku device from the power outlet, let it cool down for around 10 to 15 minutes, and then reconnect it back.
Placing your Roku in a location with good airflow will keep the device cool and prevent it from overheating.
Additionally, ensure that your Roku is kept away from devices that release heat, as this will cause your Roku to power off and reboot.
#7. Uninstall and Reinstall the App/Channel
If when using a specific channel, your Roku freezes and reboots, you can fix the problem by uninstalling and reinstalling the channel as explained below:
- Highlight the channel you want to delete from the screen using the remote.
- Press the *(star) button.
- Choose the Remove channel option and tap on Remove.
- Give the channel time to be deleted.
- Once deleted, navigate back to the home screen and click on Streaming Channels.
- Locate the channel that you need to reinstall and use the on-screen instructions to reinstall it.
You can also update the channel using the steps below:
- Go to the Home screen and choose the channel you want to update.
- Press the star (*) button.
- Click on the Check for Updates option and update the channel using the on-screen instructions.
#8. Remove Headphones from the Remote
If the headphones are connected to the remote, Roku can freeze and reboot constantly. To solve this problem, disconnect the headphones from the remote and use your Roku normally.
If your remote is not working, try replacing the batteries or unpair and re-pair it again.
You can try the steps below if you want to use your headphones with your Roku:
- Ensure that your Roku is updated by following the steps mentioned earlier.
- Disconnect the Roku from the power outlet and let it rest for 30 seconds.
- Remove the headphones from the remote.
- Take the batteries out of the remote and give it 30 seconds before putting them back.
- Reboot your Roku and then see if there are any updates.
#9. Factory Reset Your Roku Device
Resetting your Roku to its factory default settings is the final troubleshooting step you can try.
Doing this will delete all user customization and data, so ensure that you are trying this step after all the options mentioned above.
Here is how you can reset your Roku:
- On your Roku remote, press the Home button.
- Go to the Settings menu and click System.
- Now select Advanced System Settings and click on the Factory Reset option.
- To begin the reset, enter the code that you see on the screen.
- Your Roku will delete all data and reset itself.
#10. Contact Customer Support
If you have tried all the solutions mentioned above and none has worked, there is a higher chance that your Roku has an internal issue.
All you can do now is contact Roku customer service.
To help them understand the issue better, ensure that you tell them the model of your device as well as all the troubleshooting steps you have tried.
You will receive a replacement device if the warranty is still active. If not, you may need to buy a new device if it cannot be repaired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to prevent Roku from downloading software updates automatically?
No. You cannot stop your Roku from downloading updates, but if you prefer, you can delay the installation process.
How to check whether your Roku is under warranty?
You can go to the Roku website and enter the serial number of your device. This will show you the warranty status of your Roku.
Can I open and clean my Roku myself?
No. You should not open and clean your Roku yourself, as it can void your warranty and damage the device.
Final Words
Even though Roku restarting can be frustrating, it is a common issue that can be easily resolved.
In the article above, we have explained in detail some of the reasons why your Roku keeps restarting, including hardware malfunctions, power fluctuations, software updates, or overheating, among many others.
Additionally, we have provided you with easy solutions that you can try, such as updating firmware, doing a hard reset, checking for overheating, and doing a factory reset.
If none of the solutions work, we recommend you contact Roku customer service for professional help.
