Roku keeps buffering? How to fix it
Buffering — the spinning wheel mid-video — means data isn't reaching the Roku fast enough. It's a network issue far more often than a device one, so start there.
Fixes to try
- Restart the Roku and your router (unplug the router for 30 seconds).
- Move the Roku closer to the router or remove obstructions — a stick tucked behind a TV gets weak signal.
- Check signal strength under Settings › Network › About; if it's poor, that's the cause.
- On a Roku player, connect Ethernet for the most stable stream.
- Lower the streaming quality in the app if your internet is slow, and pause other heavy downloads on the network.
FAQ
- Why does only one app buffer?
- If a single channel buffers while others are fine, the problem is that service or its servers, not your Roku. Try again later, or reinstall that channel.
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