ROKU has revealed a little-known trick that could stop your TV device from buffering all the time.
Slow connection speeds can happen for a number of reasons and it may not necessarily be an issue with your internet service provider.
Placement of your router is key for any Wi-Fi connected gadgets you use.
And your TV itself could be the main culprit.
“If your TV is located between the Roku device and the router, try moving the Roku device to a location where the TV is not blocking the wireless signal,” Roku recommends.
Those who are using a Roku Streaming Stick may remember there was a free HDMI extender cable in the box.
Well, this is there to shift the stick away from the TV so it has a better connection to the router.
There is also another trick that can help – and that’s doing away with a wireless connection altogether.
It’s well known that using an Ethernet cable is much more reliable as it won’t suffer the same kind of problems that Wi-Fi does.
So if you have a Roku device with an Ethernet jack, this might be worth a try.
Roku also points out: “Ethernet may be a temporary solution to verify that the wireless connection is your real problem.”
This tip applies to other streaming sticks too like the Amazon Fire TV Stick.
Move router further away
Most of the time advice states that having your router closer to connected devices will improve the signal strength.
However, this isn’t the case for Roku if it’s too close.
“If your router is close to your Roku device, try moving it a little farther away,” the company explains.
“This may seem counter-intuitive compared to most “how to connect to Wi-Fi” guides, but having your Roku device too close to the router may actually cause the wireless signal to degrade.”
Little-known objects that can disrupt your Wi-Fi
People don't realise how many objects around the home can impact their Wi-Fi signal and slow things down. Here are some you may have missed.
- Microwaves (when they’re running)
- Baby monitors
- Fish tanks
- Mirrors
- Bluetooth devices
- Cordless phones