Firestick Keeps Restarting: Amazon’s Fire Stick is an excellent, budget-friendly device that provides easy access to a wide range of content. With its many apps and fast performance, it’s a convenient solution for entertainment. However, there are moments when using the Fire Stick can become frustrating—one of the most common issues being a boot loop.
A boot loop occurs when your Fire Stick continuously restarts without ever fully loading. If you’re dealing with this problem, don’t worry. Our guide offers several troubleshooting methods that can help you resolve the issue and get your Fire Stick back to working smoothly.
How to Fix an Amazon Firestick That Keeps Restarting
If your Firestick is repeatedly restarting, it could be due to a variety of reasons, ranging from simple fixes to more complicated ones requiring a factory reset. Below are several troubleshooting steps you can follow to resolve the issue and get your device back to working properly.
Unplug the Firestick
The first step to try is unplugging the Firestick from both the TV and the power source. This action performs a soft reset, which clears the device’s RAM and can help it cool down if it’s overheating. A soft reset won’t delete any data, making it a simple and non-invasive solution.
Tip: Let the Firestick remain unplugged for at least 5 minutes to ensure it has time to cool down. Once you plug it back in, check if the restarting issue is resolved. If not, move on to the next steps.
Update Your Amazon Firestick
If your Firestick is running outdated software or has a bug in its current firmware, it may lead to constant restarts. Make sure to check for and install any available updates. To do this:
- Ensure your Firestick is connected to Wi-Fi.
- Open the Settings menu on your Firestick (located near the Apps icon).
- Navigate to My Fire TV, then select About and click on Check for System Update.
- If an update is available, the Firestick will automatically download and install it.
Note: This may be difficult if your Firestick is caught in a restart loop, so you may need to time it carefully between restarts.
Use the Original Firestick Power Adapter
The Firestick requires a consistent power supply to function properly. Always use the original power adapter and cable that came with the device. Non-official power adapters might not provide enough power, causing the device to restart.
Also, inspect the power cable for any visible damage such as cuts, dents, or cracks, as these could prevent the Firestick from receiving adequate power.
Check for Physical Damage to the Firestick
Since the Firestick is a small and delicate device, physical damage could cause internal issues that lead to restarting. If you notice any cracks or broken parts, you may need to replace your Firestick.
Inspect Your TV’s HDMI Ports
The Firestick connects to your TV via HDMI, so ensure the HDMI port is functioning correctly. A damaged or loose HDMI port can cause connectivity issues, resulting in a continuous restart. Try plugging the Firestick into a different HDMI port, or if you only have one, you might need to have the port repaired.
Test the Firestick with Another TV
If you’re unsure whether the issue lies with the Firestick or your TV, try connecting the device to another TV with an HDMI port. If the Firestick works fine on the second TV, the issue may be with the first TV’s settings or software. However, if the problem persists, it’s likely an issue with the Firestick itself.
Disconnect Other Connected Devices
If other devices, like USB drives or external HDMI devices, are connected to your TV, they could be interfering with the Firestick’s functionality. Unplug all other devices and check if the restarting issue persists. Once you confirm that the Firestick is working properly without interference, you can reconnect other devices one by one to identify any conflicts.
Remove Any Cable Extensions
Some users may use extensions or dongles to connect their Firestick to the TV’s HDMI port. It’s generally recommended to plug the Firestick directly into the HDMI port. If you’re using an extension, it could be causing the issue, particularly if it’s of low quality. Remove the extension cables and connect the Firestick directly to the TV to see if that resolves the problem.
Restart Your Firestick Using the Remote
If your Firestick keeps restarting, a simple power cycle might do the trick. You can use the Firestick remote to perform a forced restart. Here’s how to do it:
- Power on your Firestick and set your TV to the correct input source.
- Take the Firestick remote and press the Home button to turn the Firestick on.
- Navigate to the Settings menu using the remote.
- Select My Fire TV from the options, which will open a menu.
- Scroll down and choose the Restart option to reboot your device.
Alternatively, you can force a restart by following these steps:
- With the remote in hand, press and hold both the Select and Play/Pause buttons for about 10 seconds.
- After 10 seconds, your TV will display a message saying the Firestick is powering off.
- The Firestick will reboot automatically after a few seconds.
Perform a Factory Reset of Your Amazon Fire Stick
If the problem persists, the final solution is to perform a factory reset on your Firestick. Keep in mind that a factory reset will erase all data, including installed apps, custom settings, and your account details, so be sure to note down any important information before proceeding.
We have a dedicated guide on how to reset your Amazon Firestick. You can check out the full guide for step-by-step instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Amazon Firestick keep restarting?
The most common reasons for a Firestick to keep restarting include outdated software, overheating, power supply issues, or physical damage to the device or HDMI ports. It can also be caused by issues with other connected devices or low-quality cables.
How can I restart my Firestick if it’s stuck in a restart loop?
You can perform a forced restart using the Firestick remote. Simply press and hold the Select and Play/Pause buttons on the remote for about 10 seconds. This should prompt the device to power off and then reboot itself.
Will unplugging my Firestick fix the restarting issue?
Yes, unplugging the Firestick from both the TV and power source can perform a soft reset. This clears the RAM, cools down the device, and may resolve temporary glitches that cause it to restart.
Can using a non-original power adapter cause the Firestick to restart?
Absolutely. Using third-party power adapters or cables can result in insufficient power supply, causing the Firestick to restart. Always use the original power adapter and cable that came with the device to ensure proper functionality.
What should I do if my Firestick keeps restarting despite trying all fixes?
If none of the troubleshooting methods work, you may need to perform a factory reset, which will restore your Firestick to its original settings. However, this will erase all data, including apps and preferences, so be sure to back up important information before proceeding. If the issue persists, it may be a hardware problem, and you should contact Amazon support.
conclusion
Dealing with an Amazon Firestick that keeps restarting can be frustrating, but there are multiple solutions to resolve the issue. From simple fixes like unplugging the device to more involved solutions like performing a factory reset, you have a range of methods to try. Make sure to check for software updates, inspect the power adapter and cables, and ensure your device and HDMI ports are in good condition. If all else fails, a factory reset can restore your device to its original settings. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you should be able to enjoy uninterrupted streaming on your Firestick once again. If the problem persists, it may be time to reach out to Amazon support for further assistance.
