Roku App Not Finding Device? [ 9 Possible Solutions ]

Roku is one of the best streaming services in the United States. They are always trying to improve users’ streaming experience. That’s why they have made an app named Roku App, through which you can easily control your Roku TV or Roku Streaming Stick with your smartphone. All you need to do is install this app. But sometimes, this app starts malfunctioning and doesn’t show your device. It either shows an error or just becomes unable to find the device. It is an extremely annoying problem for most Roku users. So, how can you resolve it? In this guide, we will explore the possible reasons why the Roku app not finding device. So let’s get started. 

Quick Answer: You should check the WiFi network status. Ensure the WiFi network is stable and the router is functioning properly. Turn off the VPN and restart your device to resolve this issue. 

Methods To Resolve Roku App Not Finding Device 

There are several methods to eliminate the Roku app’s failure to find devices. In this article, we’ll list some of the most common fixes for this issue. 

Read: Connect Airpods to Roku TV

Restart Router

Sometimes, the Roku app cannot find the device due to a router glitch. Most routers have a power and reset button. So carefully push the relevant button; pressing the reset button will wipe all the settings. 

Here’s a step-by-step instructions on how you can perform a power cycle. 

• When the router is on, remove its cables from the power outlet. 
• Now, wait for at least 60 seconds. 
• Replug the router to the power outlet. All the network lights will turn on after that. 
• Test the internet to ensure it is working properly. Connect it with a smartphone or tablet to get proper results. 

Update Router Firmware

Restarting it will not be enough if your router is causing the problem. You should update its firmware, which will improve its functionality. Here are the instructions you should follow. 

• From the backside of the router, note its model and version. 
• Go to the manufacturer’s website to get information about the latest firmware. 
• Download → Install → Upgrade the firmware. 

Restart & Check VPN

With a simple Roku restart, you can eliminate many glitches and bugs. These might be the potential reasons behind connectivity issues. So here’s how to restart Roku TV. 

• On your Roku remote, press Home and then click on Settings. 
• Fern here; scroll down and tap on System. 
• Choose Restart. Now, your Roku device will start to reboot. 

The method of turning off the VPN varies depending on your smartphone. Here’s how to turn off your iPhone and Android. 

• Android: Go to Settings and click on Network & Internet. Lastly, choose VPN and turn it off. 
• iPhone: Go to Settings and select General. Then, click on VPN & Device Management to turn off the VPN. 

Update Device & Roku App

Most Roku TV and Roku Mobile app issues arise because of outdated software, which increases compatibility issues. Here’s what you should do. 

• On your remote control is Home. Now go to the Settings. 
• A menu will appear from here; click on System. Choose Software Update. 
• You can check all the latest software updates by selecting Check Now. 
• If any new updates are available, download them; you can use your account easily. 

Inspect Device Discovery Settings

Most users download the app but forget to allow the permissions. As a result, the Roku Mobile app doesn’t work properly, and it can’t find any devices. Follow these steps to fix this issue. 

• Find the Home button on your Roku remote. Now go to Settings and then click on System. 
• From here, choose Advanced System Settings. Click on Control By Mobile Apps.
• Remember that the mobile app’s default permission is off. You can use Permissive in advanced network settings. 

Again Connect With the WiFi

• Have you recently changed the password of your WiFi network? If so, your Roku app may not be updated with the latest password and credentials. Here’s how to fix this issue. 
• Tap the Home button on your remote control. Now scroll and then go to Settings. 

• From here, choose System and then Network. 

• Click on Set Up Connection to move to the next step. 
• Next, choose Wired and wait until it connects automatically. But if you choose Wireless, select your Network from the list. If you don’t find it, select Scan. 
• Type the password of the Network. 
• Meanwhile, remove all old WiFi networks on your smartphone and connect them to the updated network. Tap on the Connect option. 
• Open your Roku Mobile app to check if the problem is eliminated and your device is discoverable. 

Factory Reset Your Roku Device

If none of the methods work, you should perform a factory reset on your Roku device. Remember that this setting will remove all the data, customizations, and information from your Roku TV. Here’s the method you should follow for a factory reset. 

• From your remote, navigate the Home button and go to Settings. 
• Now click on System and then choose Advanced System Settings. 

• When you’re performing it on Roku TV, click on Factory Reset Everything.
• Some instructions will appear on the screen. Follow them to complete the process. 

But what if you don’t have a remote? Don’t worry. Even if you don’t have a remote, you can still perform a factory reset on your Roku TV by following these simple steps. 

• Remove the TV cable from the wall outlet. 
• Find the physical Reset button present on the TV. Keep pressing it for a while.  
• Replug all the cables. Keep holding the button and reconnect the power source. 
• Stop pushing the button when you see the Roku logo appearing on the screen. 

Disable Fast-start

With the advancement in Roku operating system 10.5, many new features have been introduced. One of them is Fast Start, so if you’ve prolonged activity on the device, it’ll automatically go to standby mode. Due to this feature, your account becomes difficult to discover. So, it’s best to deactivate this feature following these steps. 

• On your remote, press the Home button and then click on Settings. 
• Tap on System, and from here, select the Power option. 
• Choose Auto Power Savings. Now, change the Fast-start settings from on to off. 

Change Private WiFi Address

Disabling the private WiFi address feature can be very helpful when using it and resolve the Roku app not finding device issue. But how? It allows you to locate the devices and restore their original settings. Here’s how to do it. 

• Go to the Settings. Click on WiFi. 
• Here, you’ll see a list of available networks. Tap on the network you want and then select More Info. 
• From here, click on Private WiFi Address. 
• Now, return to your Roku app and check if your device appears. 
• Once you connect the device, turn on the Private WiFi Address. This will most likely eliminate this problem. 

Conclusion

Now, you can easily implement fixes regarding the Roku app not finding the device. Check the internet connection and then reconnect the apps to make it work. To clarify any further queries of smart TV users, we have created detailed guides on elevating your streaming experience. Click here to access them for free now.