How to Use Roku TV Without Remote and WiFi (Easy Step-by-Step Guide)

Losing your remote and having no WiFi at the same time feels frustrating. Many users search how to use Roku TV without remote and WiFi when they get stuck on the home screen or cannot connect to the internet. Competitor websites often explain using the Roku app, but they miss important details. The app requires WiFi. So what if you do not have WiFi either?

This guide explains every possible working method. You will learn practical solutions, step-by-step instructions, and real examples. The goal is simple: get your Roku TV working again.

How to Use Roku TV Without Remote and WiFi

Before we dive into solutions, let’s clarify something important.

Roku TV needs the internet for streaming apps. However, you can still:

• Turn it on
• Change inputs
• Use HDMI devices
• Set up temporary internet
• Control it with alternative methods

Now let’s explore real solutions that work.

 Check Physical Buttons on Your Roku TV

Many people forget this simple fix.

Most Roku TVs have physical buttons. They are usually located:

• Under the center logo
• On the back panel
• On the side panel

Common buttons include:

• Power
• Volume
• Input
• Menu

If you only need to switch to HDMI to watch cable, gaming console, or DVD, this method works instantly.

Step by step:

1. Locate the power button and turn on the TV.
2. Press the input button repeatedly.
3. Select HDMI 1, HDMI 2, or AV depending on your device.

This method does not require remote or WiFi.

Use a Universal Remote as a Replacement

Competitor guides often suggest buying a new Roku remote. That works, but a universal remote is faster and cheaper.

You can use:

• IR universal remote
• Cable box remote with TV codes
• Third party Roku compatible remote

Setup is simple:

1. Insert batteries.
2. Enter Roku TV code from the remote manual.
3. Test navigation buttons.

Important tip: If your Roku TV remote originally used WiFi Direct (enhanced remote), you may need an IR compatible universal remote for basic control.

Use the Roku Mobile App With a Mobile Hotspot

This is the most reliable solution when you have no WiFi at home.

The Roku app works only if your phone and Roku TV connect to the same network. You can create that network yourself using a mobile hotspot.

What you need:

• A smartphone
• Mobile data
• Another phone or tablet (optional)

Method 1: If Roku was previously connected to your home WiFi

1. Change your phone hotspot name and password to match your old WiFi.
   
2. Turn on the hotspot.
3. Roku connects automatically.
4. Install Roku app on another device.
5. Use the app as a remote.

Method 2: If Roku is not connected

This is trickier. You need a temporary internet source.

Use two phones:

• Phone 1 creates a hotspot.
• Phone 2 installs the Roku app.

Connect Roku TV to hotspot using physical buttons or temporary remote. Then use app control.

Connect Roku TV to Ethernet Cable

Some Roku TVs support Ethernet connection.

If your router is nearby:

1. Plug Ethernet cable into TV.
2. Connect the other end to the router.
3. TV gets on the internet automatically.
   

Now you can use:

• Roku mobile app
• Streaming services
• Screen mirroring

This works even if WiFi is not active.

 Use HDMI Devices Without Internet

You can use Roku TV like a normal TV without internet.

Connect:

• Cable box
• Gaming console
• DVD player
• Streaming stick with separate remote

Steps:

1. Power on TV using a physical button.
2. Switch input manually.
3. Control content using device remote.

This method bypasses the Roku home screen completely.

 Borrow a Roku Remote Temporarily

All Roku remotes are not universal. But some models pair easily.

If your friend has a Roku remote:

1. Turn on your TV.
2. Insert batteries in a borrowed remote.
3. Hold the pairing button inside the battery cover.
4. Wait for a pairing message.

After pairing, you can access settings and reconnect WiFi.

 Reset Roku TV Without Remote

Sometimes you feel stuck on the setup screen.

You can reset using the physical reset button.

Locate a small reset pinhole at the back of the TV.

Steps:

1. Use paperclips.
2. Press and hold for 15–20 seconds.
3. Wait for a restart.

After reset, you must connect to the internet again for setup.

Use HDMI-CEC Feature

Many competitor websites ignore HDMI-CEC.

HDMI-CEC allows device remotes to control TV.

Example:

• PlayStation remote
• Xbox controller
• Fire Stick remote

Enable CEC in connected device settings. Then try navigating Roku input.

What You Cannot Do Without Internet

Let’s stay realistic.

Without WiFi or internet, you cannot:

• Download apps
• Stream Netflix
• Access YouTube
• Update system

However, you can still use offline connected devices.

 Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not make these mistakes:

• Buying wrong remote type
• Resetting without internet plan
• Ignoring physical buttons
• Assuming Roku app works without WiFi

Many competitor articles oversimplify. They suggest the Roku mobile app as a universal fix. It only works with the internet.

 Best LongTerm Solution

If this problem happens often, consider:

• Buying backup IR Roku remote
• Keeping Ethernet cable ready
• Saving hotspot setup steps
• Labeling WiFi credentials

Prevention saves stress.

Real Life Example

Imagine this scenario.

You move to a new house. No WiFi yet. Remote is lost.

What should you do?

Step 1: Turn on the hotspot from the phone.
Step 2: Use a borrowed or universal remote to connect Roku.
Step 3: Install Roku mobile app.
Step 4: Control TV from app.

This method works smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Roku TV without WiFi?

Yes. You can use HDMI devices and switch inputs. But streaming apps require the internet.

Can I control Roku TV with a phone without WiFi?

No. Your phone and Roku must connect to the same network. Use a mobile hotspot to create one.

How do I connect Roku to WiFi without a remote?

Use a universal remote, Ethernet cable, or borrow another Roku remote to access settings.

 Does Roku TV have buttons?

Yes. Most Roku TVs include power and input buttons either on the back or bottom panel.

Will factory reset fix remote issues?

Reset removes settings but does not fix missing remote. You still need a control method to reconnect WiFi.

Conclusion

Learning how to use Roku TV without a remote and WiFi feels complicated at first. But practical solutions exist. Start with physical buttons. Try a universal remote. Use a mobile hotspot. Connect Ethernet if possible.

Competitor guides often suggest one or two fixes. This complete guide covers every realistic option. Focus on simple, workable steps. Once you restore control, set up a backup plan.

Losing a remote should not stop your entertainment. With the right method, you can regain access quickly and avoid frustration next time.