Why Do I Have To Keep Activating Roku Apps? Complete Fix Guide

Are you wondering why do I have to keep activating Roku apps? Well, the most probable reason is that you probably shared your login information with friends or family.

If they’re using it from a different geographical location, you run into all sorts of roadblocks with Roku.

But that’s just one reason. You may be having an intermittent internet connection or a software issue. While those are issues you can troubleshoot yourself, it’s also possible that the application server or channel provider is facing glitches and challenges on their end, which could be totally out of your control.

There are few things as frustrating as apps constantly activating, especially when you have to watch a show or your favourite game.

This guide has in-depth information on how to fix the issue and resume using Roku without any hindrances.

Reasons Why You Have to Keep Updating Roku Apps

Here are some possible reasons why apps keep reactivating:

1. Roku Account Issue

Reactivation is the process by which the correct user is verified to be logging in to their ID.

In some instances, the app developers will send you a code via text or email for authentication and ensure that some hacker doesn’t access your account.

2. Application Server Issue

Servers face downtime, which could last a few minutes to a few days due to upgrades, software corruption or technical hitches.

When this happens, you’ll have to wait it out. If you contact the app developers, they’ll often give you an estimation of how long you may have to wait.

3. Poor Connectivity

Application activation require good internet connectivity for the entire process.

Without good internet, the activation process may keep cycling in an endless loop. Consider switching from WiFi network to cellular data and see if there is a change.

Why Do I Have to Keep Activating Roku Apps – Solutions

Solution #1 Reset Roku

Whenever you have any problem with your Roku device, the first step is to reset it.

A factory reset will not only unlink your account but erase all prior settings, which may be the reason why you have to keep activating Roku apps.

Here’s how to reset Roku:

1. Press the Home button on Roku remote control.
2. Select Settings, then System.
3. Go to Advanced system settings, then Factory Reset.
4. Follow on-screen instructions to factory reset Roku.

Your Roku device should turn off and back on again to initiate the factory reset. This should take anywhere between 10 to 30 seconds.

If turning your Roku on and off, resetting it, or trying to log in using the remote don’t work, you have to reset it using a physical button.

Note: The Roku device has a button on the back or bottom of the unit that you can push to reset the device to its factory settings, erasing all local information on the hard drive.

Solution #2 Check Wireless Signal Strength

One of the leading solutions for why do I have to keep activating channels on Roku is to check your internet or WiFi signal strength.

Your apps need to be kept activating because the network and internet connection isn’t consistent.

Roku players use WiFi to connect to your Internet connection.

Like other WiFi connections, it can be susceptible to interference from devices that use the same frequency of wireless transmission and travel through walls.

If you have a PC, here’s how to check wireless signal strength that may be affecting your Roku device:

1. Go to Settings.
2. Open Network & Internet.
3. Click Status.
4. You should be able to see the signal strength under “Network Status”.

If the signal strength is weak, you may need a Network Range Extender to magnify signal strength. It’s also advisable to contact your service provider if there are any internet outages.

Note: If you have a WiFi router, always ensure it’s placed in a central location to avoid interference for devices connected to it.

Solution #3 Reinstall Roku Apps

You may have to reinstall all the applications that need to be reactivated often. Roku has a forum that allows you to check whether or not an app is compatible with your Roku.

You can also go to the app developer’s site and check if the apps are still supported on Roku.

Reinstalling the application helps solve the following issues:

1. Applications need to be updated.
2. The app developer is resolving issues.
3. The app is no longer supported on Roku.
4. The app needs to be updated.

If you’re having trouble with your Roku device, look for information on the company’s social media or support sites.

If you don’t find what you need, email the company directly. Visit the official Roku Channel store to check if your favourite channel is still supported.

TIP: You can also remove a Roku channel by pressing the start button then “Remove Channel”. 

Adding the channel again ensures all the technical issues will be fixed.

Solution #4 Avoid Sharing Account Credentials

Keep your account credentials safe from prying eyes.

Whenever multiple app users across various locations share account credentials, you’ll start experiencing problems in your account, such as needing to keep activating apps.

Here’s how to ensure other parties don’t use your credentials to log into your account:

1. Use complex passwords.
2. When storing sign-in credentials, save them where no one can access them.
3. Sign in from a single Roku device.

It’s important to note that most applications operate on servers that authenticate a single user.

Note: Sharing your application credentials also denies revenue for different app and technology companies.

Solution #5 Update Roku

Just like your home devices, Roku needs to be updated to keep up with software developments and keep it working well.

Whenever you use an old version of Roku, there may be compatibility issues with the software hence the need to reactivate them often.

If you have an old or unofficial Roku channel running or your device is not connected to the internet for a long time, you need to update the Roku manually.

Here’s how to update your Roku device:

1. Press the Home button on the Roku remote.
2. Scroll to Settings, then select Systems.
3. Choose System Update.
4. To manually check for any updates, select Check Now.

Even if your Roku device updates automatically, you can still update firmware manually whenever you want.

Note: On the Systems screen, you’ll see the last time your Roku device checked for an update. 

If it is checked for updates within the last 24 to 36 hours, you don’t need to update it.

Read Next: Roku Remote Battery Drain Fix Guide!

Last Thoughts

When your apps and channels require you to keep activating, the quickest solution is to reset Roku, reinstall the said apps then ensure you have reliable internet.

If these don’t help, consider reinstalling Roku and ensuring you don’t share your app account credentials.

If you’re using an old version of Roku, all you need to do is get the latest one that’s compatible with newly developed and upgraded applications or channels.

Even though solutions to why do I have to keep activating Roku apps are straight forward you may still find yourself experiencing the same issue after troubleshooting.

This rarely happens, but if it does, reach out to Roku Support, and they’ll advise you accordingly.