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Hum1409's avatar
Hum1409
Reel Rookie
2 years ago
Solved

Connect Device to Roku Express to Roku App

I cannot connect a device to the Roku app on my phone.   I enter the IP address manually but the app says the "device was not found at this IP address".  I use the app to listen to TV with headphones.  The problem started suddenly, it has been working perfectly for some time.   Help, I have tried everything, restarting system, restarting my phone, etc.  

  • The Roku app will automatically find all Roku devices on your network as long as some criteria are met.

    • First, the wireless network must be using a private IP address range, which shouldn't be an issue if this is a home network. But sometimes the network settings are incorrect, or your ISP might have changed something. If you're using any sort of public WiFi, such as a hotel, dorm, or that sort of connection, you won't be able to use the app.
    • Next, even on a home network there could be a setting that "hides" connected devices from seeing each other. If this setting is on, your phone app will not be able to see your Roku.
    • If your phone is your Internet connection (such as using a phone hotspot) the phone will not be able to see the Roku. That's the way the phone OS controls access, basically doing the same hiding of connected devices as mentioned above. That is not something that can be changed on the phone.

3 Replies

  • atc98092's avatar
    atc98092
    Community Streaming Expert

    The Roku app will automatically find all Roku devices on your network as long as some criteria are met.

    • First, the wireless network must be using a private IP address range, which shouldn't be an issue if this is a home network. But sometimes the network settings are incorrect, or your ISP might have changed something. If you're using any sort of public WiFi, such as a hotel, dorm, or that sort of connection, you won't be able to use the app.
    • Next, even on a home network there could be a setting that "hides" connected devices from seeing each other. If this setting is on, your phone app will not be able to see your Roku.
    • If your phone is your Internet connection (such as using a phone hotspot) the phone will not be able to see the Roku. That's the way the phone OS controls access, basically doing the same hiding of connected devices as mentioned above. That is not something that can be changed on the phone.
  • Did the below answers work for you? I have the same issue and still cannot get my app to connect

    • RokuJechealR's avatar
      RokuJechealR
      Retired Moderator

      Hi jamonruffles,

      Welcome to the Roku Community!

      We want to learn more about the issue you've been experiencing with your Roku device using the Roku mobile app to connect.

      For us to help you better, we will ask a set of questions to isolate the issue:

      • What Roku device are you using right now? (e.g., Roku Express, Roku Streambar, Roku TV—specify TV)
      • Are you encountering any error codes or messages? If so, could you send us a photo?
      • Are there any changes in the setup or settings of your Roku device or your network provider that might cause the problem?
      • Who is your ISP? (Internet service provider)

      For troubleshooting purposes, we recommend connecting your Roku device to an alternative wireless network, such as a mobile hotspot, to see if you will still experience the same issue.

      In addition, you can visit our support FAQ for more troubleshooting steps about connecting your phone to a Roku streaming device with the Rok mobile app.

      Please keep us posted with the details; we'll await your update.

      All the best,
      Chel