How to set up your Roku Express
Roku® Express (model: 3960) supports video resolutions up to 1080p Full HD and ships with a Roku Simple Remote. This article describes the product in more detail and outlines the setup steps.
- Note: Roku Express model 3960 replaces Roku Express models 3700, 3900, and 3930. The same steps can be used to set up all models.
Will Roku Express work with my TV?
Roku Express will work for any television with an HDMI® connection. We recommend using the High Speed HDMI Cable that came with your Roku Express. You can order additional cables from the Roku accessories store.
Setting up your Roku Express
- Review the Roku Express Quick Start Guide (model 3960)
- If desired, attach your Roku Express using the adhesive strip.
- Use your TV remote to power on your television and select the input where you connected your Roku Express. You should see the Roku logo on the TV screen as your player powers on. Help is available if you do not see any picture on your TV.
- Slide open the battery cover on the back side of your remote and insert batteries. Help is available if you have problems with your remote control.
- Learn what to do if you see a solid red light or flashing red light on the front of your Roku Express.
On-screen setup and activation
A welcome screen will appear after you switch your TV input to where your streaming device is connected. During setup, you will choose a language, connect to the internet, download the latest updates, configure display settings, and finally activate your Roku streaming device. You must create or use an existing Roku account and then activate and link your device using an activation link sent to your email or accessed with a QR code. Learn how to enable the text-to-speech screen reader, if you need audial assistance navigating through setup.
Choose a language
The first screen you see will allow you to choose a language. Scroll through the list and press OK on your Roku remote to choose a language. All text and dialog within the Roku interface will be displayed in the selected language.
- Note: It is the responsibility of the channel publisher to translate their channel and some channels may not support your chosen language.
Connect to the internet
Choose your wireless network from the list of available networks and enter your password. This is often the same network you use to connect your computer or smartphone to the internet. If you do not see your network, select Scan again to see all networks. For more assistance, see help finding your wireless network and password.
If you want to see your password as you type, choose Show password. This can help prevent entering the wrong password. Remember, passwords are case-sensitive. Use the shift button on the on-screen keyboard to enter a capital letter.
Once you enter your password and select Connect, your device will automatically connect to the internet. Alternatively, you can get more help if you are unable to connect to your wireless network.
Download the latest updates
Once connected to the internet, your streaming device will check to see if there is a software update available, download the latest version if necessary, and automatically reboot after updating.
Configure display settings
Select Set display type and let your streaming player auto detect the best display resolution so you do not have to manually configure the settings. To change the display type at a later time, go to Settings > Display type.
- Note: This step may be done automatically by your device. If this step is not shown during setup, your device was able to do this step automatically for you.
Create a Roku account and activate your device
When prompted on screen, you will need to perform the following steps to create your Roku account and complete device activation. It may take a few moments to receive the activation email from Roku. If you do not see it in your email inbox, be sure to check your spam (or junk) folder.
- Press OK on your remote to reveal the on-screen keyboard.
- Using your remote, type a valid email address. If you have a voice remote, you can press and hold the voice button and say your email address instead.
- Important: This email will also be used as your Roku login, which is important for managing your Roku account and device services.
- If you have trouble receiving the activation link in your email, press Star on your remote and try again or select Activate with a QR Code option. Use your mobile phone's camera to scan the QR code and get the device activation link.
- Once you open the link, either from the email or QR code, follow the instructions for creating a Roku account and setting up your Roku device with channels to watch.
If you cannot get your Roku device activated, learn how to resolve linking issues. Roku does not require an activation fee, or charge for support of any kind. Learn how to avoid fraudulent websites.
Enjoy your Roku device!
With all steps complete, your Roku streaming device is ready to use. You can personalize your device by changing your theme pack or screensaver and you can use the Roku Channel Store to add new streaming channels, games, and other apps.