It’s no secret that cutting the cord can save you money, but if you’re replacing cable with streaming services you may need a device to hook up to your TV. One affordable option is the Amazon Fire TV Stick.
With it, you can access hundreds of streaming service channels to watch pretty much anything you want.
In this article, we have all the steps to set up and use your Amazon Fire TV Stick so that you can start streaming!
What You Need for Your Amazon Fire TV Stick Setup
Here’s what you need before you set up your Amazon Fire TV Stick:
- TV with an HDMI Port
- Wall Outlet Nearby
- Wireless Internet
- Amazon Account
Once you have everything you need, grab your Fire TV Stick and start your setup.
What Comes with the Amazon Fire TV Stick (2nd Generation)
Here’s what comes in the box:
- Start Guide
- Amazon Fire TV Stick
- HDMI Extender
- Micro USB Cable
- Wall Plug Power Adapter
- Amazon Alexa Voice Remote
- 2 AAA Batteries
How to Set Up the Amazon Fire TV Stick
You can watch the video featured above or keep reading to follow the setup steps for this streaming device.
Step 1: Plug It In
First, take the Micro USB cable and plug the Micro USB end (the smaller side) into the side of your Fire TV Stick.
Then put the USB end into the wall adapter and plug it into the wall.
Now plug the device into an HDMI port on your TV.
When I tried to connect my Fire TV Stick, I couldn’t because another cable that was already connected bumped against it. This situation is where the HDMI extender comes in handy.
Simply connect the Fire TV Stick to the extender and plug the extender into the HDMI port on your TV.
Remember the number next to the HDMI input you chose because you’ll need it in a minute.
Step 2: Tune Your TV
On your TV remote, use the input, source or similar button to tune your TV to the same input as the Amazon Fire TV Stick.
The input on the source menu should match the HDMI port number on your TV where you plugged in your device.
Once you select the right input, you should see the welcome screen.
In order to control your Fire TV Stick, you need to use the provided Amazon remote. Insert the AAA batteries into the back of the remote in the direction indicated.
The remote should then pair automatically.
Step 3: Start On-Screen Setup
Once the remote pairs, click the Play/Pause button and select your language.
Then, the device scans for Wi-Fi. Select your network name, input your password and wait for the device to connect to your wireless internet.
The Fire TV Stick then checks for updates. You may need to wait a few minutes for the update installation to finish and for it to restart.
Step 4: Activate Device
Now, link the streaming device to your Amazon account. If you already have an Amazon account, just type your login information to sign in.
If you don’t have an Amazon account, you’ll need to create one. I found that creating a new account on a computer was easier than signing up via the Fire TV Stick.
Once your account is created, choose the “I already have an Amazon account” option and type in your credentials.
This process registers your device and connects it to your account.
Step 5: Complete On-Screen Setup
Once you’ve logged in on the device, you can choose to save your Wi-Fi password to your Amazon account to let it connect compatible devices that you’re logged in on.
Next, you can enable parental controls if you want.
Now finish the Amazon remote setup so that you can use it to control the volume and power your TV on and off.
Make sure the volume is turned up on your TV. A sound will play and the device will prompt you to use the Amazon remote to adjust the volume to test if it works.
If it doesn’t work, select “No” and follow the on-screen instructions to fix it or see this handy guide from Amazon. If it does work, choose “Yes” and you’re all set up!
Step 6: Customize and Enjoy!
Now you’ll see channels that you can add to your home screen to access them more easily.
Once you select the ones you want, click “Finish.”
If you want to add streaming service shortcuts later, you can scroll across the top menu to the “Apps” page and select more channels to add to your home screen.
If you’re looking for a specific channel or app, just use the search function on the far left of the upper menu to find it quickly. You can also press and hold the microphone icon on your remote to use voice search.
Now, you can start watching TV!
Final Thought
The Amazon Fire TV Stick is a great, affordable way to stream in the comfort of your home. Plus, it has a voice remote with power and volume control for ease of use.
If you already have an Amazon device in your house, you may also be able to sync it with your Fire TV Stick for a more fully connected experience.
