Plex Media Server Roku Stuck Retrieving: Troubleshooting Guide

Are you experiencing issues with your Plex Media Server (PMS) and Roku? If so, you're not alone. Many users have reported problems with playback freezing at 13% on their Roku devices. In this article, we'll explore some troubleshooting steps to help resolve this issue.

Restart the Roku

Before diving into more complex solutions, try restarting your Roku device. This simple step can often resolve connectivity issues and get your Plex Media Server streaming again.

1. Unplug the power cord from the Roku.

2. Wait for 30 seconds to allow any residual power to drain.

3. Plug the power cord back in.

4. Navigate to Settings > System > System restart > Restart on your Roku device.

Check for Service Outages

It's essential to check if there are any outages or issues with the streaming service you're using. Visit Downdetector and search for the name of the service you're experiencing problems with. You can also check Twitter to see if other users are reporting similar issues.

Additional Troubleshooting Steps

If restarting your Roku doesn't resolve the issue, try these additional steps:

1. Check for video buffering: Sometimes, videos may hang at 13% due to buffering issues. Try waiting a few minutes or checking if other videos play smoothly.

2. Verify container remuxing: It's possible that audio might be present in some videos, and there is a remux of the container. This can cause playback issues.

3. Check PMS logs: If you're experiencing persistent problems, enable more logging on your Plex Media Server to gather additional information.

Plex Settings

If you've tried the above steps and still encounter issues, check your Plex settings:

1. Playback Quality: Ensure it's set to 'Original'.

2. Direct Play: Set it to 'Auto'.

3. Direct Stream: Allow direct streaming for better performance.

Resolving playback issues with your Roku and Plex Media Server requires patience and persistence. By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to resolve the problem and get back to enjoying your favorite content. Remember to check for service outages, restart your Roku, and verify container remuxing to ensure a smooth streaming experience.

If you're still experiencing issues, feel free to share your Plex Media Server settings, logs, or any other relevant information to help troubleshoot the problem further.

Plex media server roku stuck retrieving