Hey guys! Figuring out how to watch your favorite CBS shows on Roku can be a bit confusing, especially with all the different streaming options out there. But don't sweat it! This article will walk you through everything you need to know to get CBS up and running on your Roku device. We'll cover finding the CBS channel, subscribing to Paramount+ (if needed), and troubleshooting any issues you might encounter. So, grab your Roku remote, and let's dive in!

Understanding CBS and Streaming

Before we get into the specifics of Roku, let's clarify how CBS fits into the streaming world. CBS, a major broadcast network, offers its content through various avenues. The most straightforward way to watch CBS live is through a traditional cable or satellite subscription. However, if you're a cord-cutter (like many of us these days!), you have other options, primarily through streaming services.

• CBS All Access (Now Paramount+): CBS's own streaming service was initially called CBS All Access, but it has since been rebranded as Paramount+. Paramount+ includes live CBS broadcasts (in select markets), as well as a vast library of on-demand content from CBS, Paramount Pictures, Nickelodeon, MTV, and more. This is often the best bet for dedicated CBS fans, offering a comprehensive selection of shows and movies.
• Live TV Streaming Services: Services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and FuboTV also carry live CBS channels (again, in select markets). These services offer a bundle of channels similar to a cable package, but streamed over the internet. They can be a great alternative if you want a broader range of channels beyond just CBS and Paramount's offerings.
• The CBS App: CBS also provides a dedicated app for Roku (and other devices). However, the content available on this app may be limited if you don't have a subscription through a participating provider (like a cable company or one of the live TV streaming services mentioned above). Some content may be available for free, but the full library typically requires authentication.

So, with those options in mind, let's figure out how to actually get CBS on your Roku.

Adding the CBS Channel to Your Roku

Okay, first things first: let's make sure you have the CBS channel (or the Paramount+ channel, depending on your preference) installed on your Roku. Adding channels to Roku is super easy. Here’s how:

1. Turn on your Roku device and navigate to the home screen. You know, the one with all your channels displayed in a grid.
2. Scroll down to "Streaming Channels" or "Channel Store." It's usually near the bottom of the screen.
3. Once you're in the Channel Store, you can browse by category or use the search function. To find the CBS channel, type "CBS" into the search bar. Alternatively, if you're interested in Paramount+, search for "Paramount Plus."
4. Select the correct channel from the search results. Make sure you're selecting the official CBS or Paramount+ channel. The logos should be recognizable.
5. Click "Add channel." This will download and install the channel on your Roku device. Once it's finished, you'll usually see an "OK" button. Click that.
6. The channel will now be added to your Roku home screen. It might appear at the very end of your channel list, but you can usually move it around to a more convenient location.

Now that you've added the channel, let's talk about accessing the content. Remember what we discussed earlier about subscriptions? Depending on how you plan to watch CBS, you may need to subscribe to Paramount+ or authenticate through another provider.

Subscribing to Paramount+ for CBS Access

If you want the most comprehensive access to CBS content on Roku, subscribing to Paramount+ is likely the way to go. As we mentioned, Paramount+ is the successor to CBS All Access and includes live CBS feeds (in select markets) as well as a huge on-demand library.

Here's how to subscribe to Paramount+ through your Roku:

1. Launch the Paramount+ channel on your Roku. You know, the one you just installed!
2. Look for a "Sign Up" or "Subscribe" option. The exact wording may vary depending on the version of the app.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to create an account and choose a subscription plan. You'll need to provide an email address, create a password, and enter your payment information. Paramount+ typically offers different subscription tiers, some with and without commercials, so choose the one that best suits your needs.
4. Once you've subscribed, you should be able to access all of the content available on Paramount+, including live CBS broadcasts (if available in your area) and the on-demand library.

Keep in mind that Paramount+ offers a free trial period for new subscribers. This is a great way to test out the service and see if it meets your needs before committing to a paid subscription.

Using Live TV Streaming Services for CBS

Another way to watch CBS on Roku is through live TV streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, or FuboTV. These services offer a bundle of channels similar to a traditional cable package, but streamed over the internet. The availability of local CBS channels can vary depending on your location, so it's important to check the channel lineup for each service before subscribing.

Here's the general process for using a live TV streaming service to watch CBS on Roku:

1. Subscribe to a live TV streaming service that carries your local CBS channel. Check the service's website or app to confirm that CBS is available in your area. Most services offer a free trial period, so you can test it out before committing.
2. Download and install the live TV streaming service's channel on your Roku. You'll find these channels in the Roku Channel Store, just like you did with the CBS and Paramount+ channels.
3. Launch the live TV streaming service's channel on your Roku and sign in with your account credentials.
4. Navigate to the channel guide or search for CBS. Once you find CBS, you should be able to watch the live broadcast just like you would with a cable or satellite subscription.

Live TV streaming services can be a great option if you want a wide range of channels beyond just CBS. However, they typically cost more than a Paramount+ subscription, so it's important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, things don't go quite as planned. Here are a few common issues you might encounter when trying to watch CBS on Roku, along with some troubleshooting tips:

• Channel Not Loading: If the CBS or Paramount+ channel is not loading, try restarting your Roku device. You can do this by going to Settings > System > System restart. Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve minor software glitches.
• Buffering or Streaming Issues: If you're experiencing buffering or other streaming issues, check your internet connection. Make sure you have a strong Wi-Fi signal and that your internet speed is sufficient for streaming video. You can also try closing other apps or devices that are using your internet connection.
• Authentication Errors: If you're being asked to authenticate your subscription but you're not sure how, make sure you're signing in with the correct credentials. If you're using a live TV streaming service, you'll need to sign in with your account for that service, not your Roku account.
• Missing Local Channels: If you're not seeing your local CBS channel on Paramount+ or a live TV streaming service, it's possible that the channel is not available in your area. Check the service's website or app to confirm the channel lineup for your location.

If you've tried these troubleshooting tips and you're still having problems, you can contact Roku support or the support team for the specific streaming service you're using.

Wrapping Up

So there you have it! Watching CBS on Roku is definitely doable, whether you choose to subscribe to Paramount+, use a live TV streaming service, or access limited content through the CBS app. Just remember to check the channel lineups and subscription requirements to make sure you're getting the content you want. Happy streaming, everyone!