Roku is a device that allows you to watch Streaming input from Netflix. You can get streaming or instant movies/tv shows etc. if you subscribe to Netflix. Roku allows it to come through on your tv instead of the computer. Now you can also use PS3, Wii and other gaming consoles to stream to your tv too. Also some of the newer DVD players have the capability to do the same thing. We bought that type DVD player for my DD b/c she had the Wii in her bdrm. and the DGS didn't have much room to play it. She likes to watch Netflix in bed. this way she could put the Wii in the living roomfor games and streaming and still watch it in her room.