Wi-Fi & connectivity

[NickBChaser]

I have a Roku 2 that has been very slow most of the time lately. Connection check right now is Signal Strength: Good, Download Speed: <1Mbps. Even thumbnails are not loading in apps. Meanwhile all other devices on the Wi-Fi are fast, with 50-80Mbps (we are paying for 1gig fiber). Is the Roku just shot, time to make me buy another one? (Any wonder nothing lasts anymore?)

[Strega2]

What model is it?  “Roku 2” is a name used on a fairly wide variety of models from 2011 to 2015.  Some of them were 2.4GHz only, and some were dual band.  It looks like the 4210 (the most recent “Roku 2”) can still run a current Roku OS, but none of the rest can.

[makaiguy]

@NickBChaser-

This has always worked for me to re-establish my net connection when it has been lost or not performing well:

• Restart the router (even if other devices have no problem finding and connecting). Sometimes that's all it takes, if not keep going.
• Restart the Roku to clear its memory. Depending on your Roku model and Roku version number you'll find the System restart option under either Settings > System or Settings > System > Power. Again sometimes that's all it takes, if not keep going.
• Find and connect to your network via Settings > Network > Set up connection.

If that doesn't fix it, try disconnecting the power to your Roku for a few seconds.  When it comes back up, see if you then can set up the network connection.

I support everything @Strega2 said.   But no matter which "Roku 2" you have, if you replace it with a current model, you'll be astounded at how much faster and more responsive the current models are.

[atc98092]

First I want to state that older Roku devices do not report an accurate speed when using the internal test. But as @makaiguy mentioned, there is something you can try.

Based on those speeds I'm assuming you're using WiFi, not an Ethernet cable. Since all of the Roku 2 players (as mentioned, there's been at least 5 different versions) have an Ethernet jack, that would be my first suggestion, using an Ethernet cable.

But I'm also in agreement that you need to upgrade your device. Even the newest Roku 2 is now more than eight years old, and the performance improvements in the latest players will make yours seem like a turtle. And if 4K is in your future plans (assuming you don't have a 4K TV now) Roku has some great players for that. The Express 4K+ is only $40 and would blow your current player away.