Do You Need WiFi for Roku? How to Use Roku TV Without WiFi?

A common question you might have is: Do you need WiFi for Roku? While a stable internet connection is usually required for streaming, you may wonder if Roku devices can still work without WiFi. In this article, we'll take a closer look at this question and explore the different ways you can or cannot use Roku without an internet connection.

Do You Need Wi-Fi for Roku?

A simple answer, yes. As a streaming device, the internet is one of the most important prerequisite signal transferring medium, which seamlessly casts all movies and TV shows to you. Therefore, you need a Wi-Fi network that is hooked up to the internet to enjoy your Roku TV as a smart TV.

Principle of Streaming Service

Let me explain how the streaming service works. In the old days, you wanted to watch a movie, you had to go to the store and purchase a hard copy of the movie in the form of discs and, all discs in the store were shipped from the merchants.

Nowadays, when the internet is all over us, and that is the path to transport the content of the disc instead of a hard copy shipping all the way from a distance. When you have no internet connection, you have no way to get fresh movies or TV shows on your Roku TV instantly.

How to Use Roku TV Without Wi-Fi?

If you are in some special circumstances let's say, you might just move to a new apartment and haven't got access to the internet services, you want to use the Roku TV without Wi-Fi, what should you do? How to use roku without internet?

Well, Roku supports antenna input, which means you can still manage to receive TV signals if you hook the Roku TV with antenna. Follow these steps to see how to scan antenna channels on Roku TV.

Step 1. Connect the TV to antenna through the antenna port.

Step 2. Go to the Settings page.

Step 3. Go to TV Inputs.

Step 4. Choose Live TV.

Step 5. Click Set up input.

Step 6. Choose Antenna.

Step 7. Then the TV will search for available TV broadcast signals.

You will receive free TV broadcasts from TV stations near the place you are in, and this scanning procedure might take a while.

How Wi-Fi Benefits Roku TV?

You can technically use a Roku TV without WiFi, but it is strongly recommended to connect it as soon as possible. Without an internet connection, your Roku TV loses access to streaming apps and smart features, making it no different from a regular television with a modern design. Now, let's look at how connecting to WiFi can enhance your Roku TV experience.

A Complete Streaming Services

Roku TV is considered smart because it includes the Roku streaming service, providing instant access to thousands of movies and shows. You can also install popular streaming apps to enjoy even more content. That's why connecting your Roku TV to WiFi is essential to fully unlock its features.

Remote with Smart Phone

If you have your Wi-Fi network, you can coordinate your Roku TV with your smart phone, to make it even smarter. With remote apps such as Roku Mobile App or Remote for Roku TV, you can remote control your Roku TV with your smart phone, making your living room entertainment easier and smarter.

Media Casting and Screen Mirroring

Wi-Fi networks can also be the path for your phone to send signals to your Roku TV. You can use the phone application mentioned above to cast photos or videos, directly from your local album, to your Roku TV. Also, you can mirror the screen of your smart phone to display it on your Roku TV in real-time speed.

For more information, you can read Best Roku Remote Replacement | How to Replace a Roku Remote

Conclusion

If you don't have WiFi, you can use the Roku TV with an antenna to watch regular TV broadcasts. But it's best to set up your WiFi as soon as you can because it unlocks many more features. With WiFi, you can stream a huge variety of shows, movies, and online videos. You can also cast media and mirror your phone's screen to the TV when both are connected to the same network.

Do You Need Wi-Fi for Roku FAQ

Q: Can I use Roku without WiFi?

Yes. Even if you don't have Wi-Fi network, you can still watch your Roku TV with TV broadcast signals. Link your Roku TV to antenna, go to Settings -> TV inputs -> Live TV -> Set up input -> Antenna. Then your Roku TV will search for available TV broadcast signals.

Q: Can you use Roku without cable?

Yes. Roku TV has built-in Wi-Fi module, you can use the Roku TV without a cable. With Wi-Fi network, you can use almost all functions of Roku TV, plus, you can use your smart phone as an assistant of your Roku TV, in order to play online video, cast media and mirror screen.

Q: How to watch TV without internet?

You can watch TV without internet by using an antenna to receive over-the-air broadcast channels. This lets you access local networks and watch live TV for free. Many modern TVs, including Roku TVs, have built-in tuners that make it easy to connect an antenna and start watching without needing an internet connection.