CCSInc4u - FAQs
Welcome to the FAQs page for CCSInc4u, your trusted resource. Here, you will find answers to frequently asked questions about our services, including computer optimization, home theater setup and modifications, as well as streaming services.
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Please scroll down for essential tips.

Firestick Tips, Tricks and Maintenance
**NEW** Most Common Tips when channels freeze or don't load. See bottom of article for provider info
First Note: In some apps, there are two versions of each channel. If one has issues, always try the second one. This is why there are two options. (Always save both in your favorites!)
1) Perform a hard reset! Unplug your router, modem, and streaming device (make sure to unplug from the outlet or the small piece connecting to the device, not the HDMI port). You should do this 1-2 times a month to clear and clean your router's memory. Ensure you’re connected to your network: go to the Amazon/Device main screen, then Settings > Network.
2) Connect to your 5G network: if you have dual-band Wi-Fi. On the Amazon home page, go to Settings > Network, and choose the option with "5G" in the name, if available.
3) Run a speed test : On the actual streaming device (not on your phone or PC). Search for or ask Alexa for the Analiti Speed Test, download it, and run both the quick and detailed tests. Your speed should be over 25 Mbps, and ideally at least half or more of the speed of your internet package. Remember, the more devices or people using your Wi-Fi, the more speed you’ll need. A 200 Mbps minimum internet package is recommended.
4) App login errors:
A) Confirm your login information is correct. (Text us if not sure)
B) Check if the app is undergoing maintenance. (Service Updates Page on Web Site http://ccsinc4u.com/service-updates)
C) Ensure your internet connection is active.
If you still can’t log in: Go to the Firestick/Device home screen, then Settings > Apps > Manage Apps. Select the app with the issue, choose Force Stop, then Clear Cache, and relaunch. If that doesn’t work, repeat the steps and this time Clear Data twice (note that you’ll need to log back in and reset any app settings, and you’ll lose your favorites).
5) Connections: Make sure you’re not exceeding the maximum number of simultaneous connections allowed for your apps or plan. The $30/ month plan is 2 connections. Exceeding the limit can cause constant kickouts or buffering. Limits are as follows: Hive = 5, Black Rose = 2 (unless you’ve purchased plans allowing multiple devices).
6) Space/Storage: Ensure you have enough internal space on your Firestick/Device, with at least 2GB free. To check, go to Amazon Home page > Settings > My FireTV > About > Storage OR Settings > Apps > Highlight ‘Manage Installed Apps.’ Internal space left is shown on the right. If storage is low, go to your apps in settings and delete any apps downloaded from Amazon or ones you don’t use. You can also clear the cache on every app to free up more space. *****(DO NOT CLEAR DATA ON APPS OR YOU WILL HAVE TO ADD FAVORITES AND LOG BACK IN)
****IMPORTANT: If you can’t get your storage over 2GB, you may have a bug or files that can’t be removed from unverified downloads! It’s best to reset your stick to factory default and reinstall only what you need. (OR)?? Bring your device to me to clean it up and reinstall apps if needed. There's a $20 fee if brought to me, $25 if I come to you.
7) Tips to improve your Wi-Fi signal :
A) Check with your internet provider to ensure you have the correct modem/router for your internet speed/package. They can also test your router or modem over the phone.
B) Move your router closer to your streaming device.
C) Upgrade to a faster internet package. ***A 100-200mbps minimum internet package is suggested!***
D) Upgrade/purchase a better router.
E) Get the latest 4K Firestick (if you have an older one). They have the best Wi-Fi chipset, allowing you to maximize your Wi-Fi speed/signal.
F) Hardwire your device to your router; get an adapter and Ethernet cable). If you need help on how to order we can do that for you or order here and we will help you.
8) Make sure your Fire device has the latest software. It usually self-updates, but you can check by going to Settings > My FireTV > About > Check for Updates.
9) OTHER ISSUES: - APPS/DEVICES FREEZING OR NOT WORKING, ETC.
A) APP FREEZES/ISSUES: Go to the Amazon Home Page...Top Menu...Settings...Apps...Manage Apps...Find the App in the List...Clear Cache...Force Stop...Relaunch. *****(If that doesn't work, repeat the steps but CLEAR DATA this time. Just remember clearing Data will erase favorites and log in information so be sure to have that available.)
YOU CAN CLEAR THE CACHE ON ALL APPS OCCASIONALLY TO CREATE MORE SPACE ON YOUR DEVICE. (Recommended.
B) Account Issues:Open the App...In Settings, go to Account or locate that area...Logout...Log Back in.
C) In the APP Settings...Refresh Channels-TV Guide/Update Contents, etc. D) FIRESTICK/BOX/STREAMING DEVICE FREEZES: Unplug / Hard Reset, etc.
E) REMOTE ISSUES: The Remote might have unpaired with the Device...Point the Remote at the device and hold the Home Button for about 20 to 30 seconds. Ensure your batteries aren't dead! Change them if necessary.
F) NO SOUND? When in Full Channel Screen, click the Right side of the Ring on the Remote. You might have clicked the Left side, which lowers or mutes the volume in any App.
G) HOW TO FIND YOUR EXPIRATION DATES ON ALL APPS OR UPDATE THEM IF THEY LOOK WRONG:
BLACK ROSE 3.2.0: Settings - Account - HIVE: Open the App...Click the Settings Tab at the top...Account Info at the top. If the Date is wrong, it likely means you're not exiting the App properly. To update it, try one of the following steps:
1) Exit by hitting back until app asks if you want to exit and say yes. and reopen the App.
2) Go to the Device Home Screen...Settings...Apps...Manage Apps...Click on the App...Clear Cache...Force Stop...Relaunch.
3) In the App Settings...Logout...Log back in (you may need your login info).
BAD POWER CORD: If your Power Cord is damaged or faulty, your entire device will experience issues. You can buy replacement Power Cords on Amazon (ensure you get the correct one for your Device)
10) TRY A VPN. http://protonvpn.com. Can select free version but only 1 email per 1 connection. Need help setting up let us know.
Provider Fixes:
If you have Xfinity: Their blocking causes buffering. In order to bypass this, go to the Xfinity Xfi app on your phone click More than My Services click Disable XFi Advanced Security. Turning off the security fixed most of the buffering
If you have Verizon Fios: Many people have reported Verizon blocking them in the past. A fix has been discovered for this. It's a setting that Verizon has enabled on the network connection settings.
Go to the Google Play Store and download the Verizon Fios app on your phone or tablet. Then sign in with your Verizon Fios info the one you use to take care of your billing et cetera for Verizon. make sure you are on the support on the app. The app will then ask what you need help with choose Internet Next choose Manage Wi-fi Settings You will then see Home Network Protection it will be enabled turn it off apply the setting if necessary and back out of the app restart the device.
If you have AT&T Internet:
If you have issues with not being able to login, constant buffering, or invalid/expired error messages you need to follow these steps:
1️⃣ Download the AT&T Smart Home Manager app
2️⃣ Login to the smart home manager app
3️⃣ Click on AT&T internet 1000 or the modem you have
4️⃣ Click on Active Armor from the modem side
5️⃣ Deactivate
*NOTE: You can reactive ActiveArmor at any time, it’s a free security service they offer.
If you have T-Mobile 5g Home Internet:
***Do this On Your Amazon Firesticks or Boxes to Further Improve Performance / Speed / Free up Memory.
1) Amazon HomeScreen...Settings...Preferences....Privacy Settings....TURN THOSE 3 Things to OFF
2) Now Go Back one and Go to Featured Content..Turn Both the VIDEO & AUDIO to OFF
3) Go back one to Notification Settings...Turn Do Not Interrupt to ON 3a)Then Click App Notifications...Turn all those in the List to OFF
4) Go to My Fire TV....About..Check for Updates. This will make sure you have the latest Software from Amazon
5)Settings...Display & Sounds....ScreenSaver....Start Time... Put to "Never" ( After you do this go into Applications...Manage Applications...ScreenSaver...Click on it..Click Clear Data 2x)
6) Go to Applications....Amazon Photos....Turn Allow Guest Connections to OFF...Then Go to Amazon Photos....Click Disable 2x...Then go to Game Circle ..Turn to OFF
Movie or Series not Loading just spins a circle in Blackrose Plus?
Find the movie or show you want and save it as a favorite.
On the main screen with Live TV, TV Guide, VOD, and Series, navigate to Settings.
Then go to Player.
Live TV should always be set to VLC, while the others should be on EXO.
If a movie isn't loading, try switching VOD from EXO to VLC, save the changes, and then go back and try again.
If a series has episodes that won't load, switch from EXO to VLC, save the changes, and try again.
Due to Rise in Storms Every Day
If a thunderstorm causes a power outage while you're watching TV and, when the power returns, the TV turns on but the Fire Stick is frozen or fails to load apps like Black Rose or Hive, the fix is simple. Unplug the Fire Stick's power either from the small wire at the back of the TV or from the outlet block, wait 20 seconds, then plug it back in. Leave the TV on and watch as it reboots with the Fire TV logo, which should resolve the issue.
How to find expiration date in Blackrose Sparkle or Hive Sparkle
From the main screen of either app, where the background displays changing posters and the menu is located at the bottom with options like Live TV, Movies, and TV Shows, navigate to Account. Then, select your service, either BlackRose or Hive. Scroll to the bottom where it says "About," select it, and you will find your expiration date.
What is Cache on a Firestick? Why so important to clean? Tips
Before addressing the process of the cache, it is important to understand what cache is and why it is necessary.
Cache serves as a storage location for frequently accessed data. When using apps on your Fire TV Stick, they store data in the cache to enable faster loading during subsequent use. This includes images, videos, and other files that contribute to smoother and quicker user experience.
Although caching enhances performance, it can create issues over time. Here are some reasons to consider clearing your cache:
Performance Issues: Excessive cached data can lead to sluggish performance, lagging, or freezing apps.
Storage Management: If your TV Stick is running low on storage, clearing the cache can free up valuable space.
Software Bugs: Cached data may become corrupted, resulting in app crashes or diminished performance. Clearing the cache can resolve such issues.
Tips for Managing Cache and Enhancing Performance:
Once you have learned how to clear the cache on your Fire TV Stick, consider adopting the following strategies to maintain optimal performance:
Regular Maintenance:
Regularly clear the cache. Depending on usage, performing this task monthly or every few weeks can help keep your Fire TV Stick functioning efficiently.
Uninstall Unused Apps:
Remove apps that are rarely used. This action not only frees up space but also reduces clutter and potential performance problems.
Keep Software Updated:
Ensure your Fire TV Stick is running the latest software version, as updates often include performance improvements and bug fixes.
Use Streaming Services Wisely:
Certain streaming may demand more cache resources than others. If a specific app slows down, clearing its cache more frequently may prove beneficial.
Restart Your Fire TV Stick:
Occasionally restart your device to address minor performance issues. Unplug it, wait a few seconds, and then plug it back in.
Clear Cache and Space in Firestick Monthly
Press the home button (Little House).
Navigate to the gear icon on the far-right side (Settings). down and select (Applications). Within this menu, choose (Manage Applications). Locate the first application in the list and highlight it. Press the rewind button (<<) and confirm to clear the cache. Proceed to the next application and repeat the process until all applications have been addressed.
After completing this, press the back button twice to return to the main settings menu. Navigate to (My Fire TV), select it and scroll down to choose the restart option. This action will reboot the Firestick and clear any remaining cache. Performing this procedure at least once a month is recommended to maintain optimal performance. The Firestick is now successfully cleaned.
"Home Not Available" Message
If this message appears, it indicates that the Firestick is not connected to the internet.
Disconnect the power or press the reset button on the back of the modem, then wait for it to reboot and reconnect. If this step does not resolve the issue, navigate from the message on the Firestick to the settings menu, then to the network section, and ensure that you are connected to your internet.
Add/ Remove Channel Favorites Old Hive or Old Blackrose
To add a channel to your favorites, go to the Live TV section and select a from the left, such as 'USA Full HD.' Once the channels are displayed on the right, highlight the desired channel until yellow lines appear on both sides.
Hold the select button for two seconds until a gold star appears, signifying that the channel has been added to your favorites.
To remove a channel from your favorites, select the channel from your list, hold the select button for two seconds, the star will disappear.
The channel will remain visible until you exit and re-enter the favorites section. This process applies to the TV Guide, VOD, and SERIES sections.
Favorites are specific to each section; live TV channels will not appear in the favorites when navigating in the VOD or SERIES sections, and vice versa.
Searching In Blackrose or Hive
Ensure you're within our app prior to searching. Choose whether you're looking for a TV channel, movie, or series, and select the appropriate category.
Navigate to the magnifying glass icon at the top right and double-click to bring up a box with letters and numbers. Press and hold the blue button on the remote until you hear a tone, state your search query, and then release the button. Click the select button (the middle button inside the ring).
Your search results will then be displayed.
Keep in mind, if your search leads to prompts to download, subscribe, or pay, the search was incorrect.
Simply press back until you reach the magnifying glass icon, and make sure to double-click to view the box with letters and numbers before searching again. The background of our app should remain visible throughout your search.
Testing Your Internet Speed to Firestick
- Navigate to the settings on the main screen of the Firestick, located all the way to the right, and select the gear icon.
- Below, you will see various settings options; move to 'Network 'click and you'll see a list of connections.
- Highlight your connected connection, press the play/pause button on your remote and choose 'Speed Test'.
- The results should show 25mbps or higher. The upload speed will be considerably lower, as it only indicates that you are connected and active.
- If your speed is low, consider upgrading your plan or relocating your router closer to the Firestick.
Need a VPN (Free) to keep your privacy and keep Internet providers from stealing your speed?
Need a FREE VPN (Virtual Private Network)? Search firestick from main screen or use the voice. Protect yourself from slow speeds and protect your privacy. Search for "Proton VPN"
If you want for your android or windows, click here
Are your favorites in Blackrose and Hive Disappearing?
They do not disappear, but when you hold down the select button for 2 seconds, it adds a star make it a favorite. If you repeat the on a channel that has a star, it removes it from favorites, and the next time go into favorites, it's gone.
When a channel has the star and is a favorite, be sure to click lightly and quickly to select it for watching and not long press on it, and you'll be fine.
Alot of Buffering? Possible Internet Throttling Explained
Internet throttling is widespread among mobile network providers and internet service providers (ISPs), but most users are unaware of it. Users pay for the internet but, in most cases, get cheated by ISPs without knowing what is happening at the backend. However, not every ISP does this.
If you notice that your bandwidth is throttled, then it’s time to fight back and grab what belongs to you. You may be wondering how. Do not worry; this article will show you how to stop throttling quickly. Internet throttling is also known as bandwidth throttling. Internet service providers limit your bandwidth once they feel you have reached your monthly bandwidth cap. That might also have raised your eyebrows, and you probably would be asking, “Is my ISP watching my movies online? The answer is yes. That is why it is crucial to stop ISP tracking. Returning to internet throttling, your ISP determines your monthly cap, but in most instances, the cap is not justifiable.
Sometimes, you do not necessarily have to reach your monthly data cap before your internet gets throttled by your ISP. An ISP would usually decide to limit data cap for specific areas, certain sites you use, locations, or to make more profit. And sometimes, they could do it to free congestion. Instead of increasing their infrastructure to accommodate more traffic, they would throttle your bandwidth. The end users are the losers who bear the brunt of ISP’s shortcomings. Some ISPs are usually fair and would charge you less monthly when your internet is throttled. Some would also notify you in advance if your region was throttled for one reason or the other and charge you less.
However, only a few internet service providers are sincere. Most would throttle your bandwidth, slowing down your connections and causing discomfort. Sometimes, your network might even go completely off for a few seconds.
So how do we fix it? Get a VPN like Proton VPN
Shutting Down, Turning On Firestick
- Ensure all programs are closed properly by pressing the back button (curved arrow) until you reach the Firestick home screen.
- Press and hold the Home button (house icon) for 2 seconds.
- From the menu, scroll to and select "Sleep."
- Then press the power button, located at the top left above the Alexa button, to turn off the TV.
- These steps help prevent data corruption in your apps on the Firestick.
- To power up your Firestick, press the power button located at the top left above the blue Alexa button, and everything will turn on.
Re-Starting/ Re-Freshing Firestick
- From the home screen, click the House button and hold while pressing the center of the circle and hold both together for about 8 secs and a message will come up that the device will shut down and restart.
- This is useful for refreshing the Firestick if it's acting up.
- It's also recommended to do this after cleaning your Firestick and no need to unplug the power cord.
New way to restart Firestick with remote
- Most do not have easy access to the power plugged into the wall or back of the tv, so we suggest using your Firestick remote.
- This restart process should take 30 seconds by following the quick steps below.
- Press the Pause/Play button and the Select button together for approximately 5-10 seconds.
- Your device will then state the following message “Your Fire TV Stick 4K is turning off”
- After powering off, the device will reboot and be back up and running in no time.
Reset Firestick Remote or add to another Firestick if Broken Remote
Before doing the following steps below try this simple step.
- Unplug power to firestick either at the wall or unplug thin wire from stick in back of tv.
- Wait 5 secs, then plug in power.
- While waiting for firestick to reboot, be sure you have fresh batteries, installed correctly and DO NOT PUSH ANY BUTTONS.
- After the main screen is up continue to wait until a message come up (3-4 mins) stating it can not locate your remote.
- Press and hold the house button on remote for atleast 10 secs and watch the remote for a blinking green light meaning connecting or quick blue meaning connected, then try the buttons. If this fails then do steps below:
To reset most Fire TV remotes, follow this recommended method:
- Disconnect your Fire TV's power supply and remove it from the HDMI port if it's a Fire TV Stick.
- For TVs, simply unplugging the power will suffice.
- On the remote, simultaneously press the Left, Menu, and Back buttons.
- Hold these buttons for 12 seconds.
- Release the buttons and wait for five seconds.
- Take out the batteries from the remote.
- Reconnect your Fire TV device's power and turn it on. Wait for a message indicating the remote can't be detected. If this message doesn't appear, repeat steps 1-5. 7.
- Reinsert the batteries into the remote and press the Home button.
- Some remotes have an LED indicator that turns blue upon pairing. Most remotes will simply start working, allowing you to test functionality.
- If pairing doesn't occur immediately, hold the Home button for an additional 10 seconds.
Blackrose users notice alot of skipping and repeating in Live Tv?
Simply follow these steps for a smoother viewing experience:
- Power on your Firestick, open Blackrose , and wait until you reach the main screen with no updates in progress.
- Look for small boxes below, go to settings, then select "Player."
- Switch LIVE TV from EXO to VLC and the rest stay on EXO Player.
- Return to the main screen of Blackrose, and press the update button in the top right corner.
- After the update completes, you should notice the improvements.
There may be times when something doesn't play, you may have to change the setting back, but leave Live TV on VLC Always!!!
Re-Setting/Re-Freshing Internet
- To ensure optimal internet performance, it's advisable to reset your router once a month, especially if you frequently use devices like phones and computers.
- You can do this by unplugging the power, waiting for two minutes, and then plugging it back in to allow it to reconnect.
- Alternatively, pressing and holding the reset button on the back for 2-3 seconds will achieve the same result.
- Over time, routers/modems can become cluttered with data.
How to Control Roku Tv Using Firestick Remote
- Ensure you are using the Roku remote for this procedure.
- Scroll down to 'Settings' and press the Right arrow button.
- Then scroll down to 'System' and press the Right arrow button followed by scrolling down to 'Power'.
- Press the Right arrow button to select 'Power On'.
- Press the Right arrow button again and highlight the input you want to be displayed when you power on your TV.
- After this, you can set aside the Roku remote and won't need to change the input each time you want to watch Firestick.
TV Guide Times Not Correct in TV Guide
- To correct misinformation on the TV guide due to daylight savings changes, (EPG), start from the main screen of Black rose, which displays LIVE TV, TV GUIDE, VOD, and SERIES.
- Click on 'Settings' below. Navigate to 'EPG TimeShift,' select it, then choose 'Auto' and close.
- Press 'Back' afterward.
- At the top of the main screen of Black rose, click on 'Update.' The guide should now be synchronized and ready.
Adjust TV Screen to Fit
- From the home screen (House Button), scroll to the far-right gear icon labeled 'Settings'.
- Then, scroll down to 'Display & Sounds', proceed to 'Display', scroll down to 'Calibrate', and follow the prompts.
Control, your firestick using app on android or IOS
Simply download the free app for your type of phone. It's free and great for a dead remote or lost or have no batteries and store is closed. Just be sure your phone and firestick are connected to the same wifi at set up. These have to be downloaded using your phone's browser. Just click links and share to yourself
How to add TV to Firestick Remote to be able to control your TV with Firestick remote
From main screen when you first turn on firestick..
- Scroll to far right and get to gear and see all boxes below of settings for firestick
- Navigate to equipment control and click once.
- Now scroll down to Manage Equipment
- scroll to tv and select
- Now down to change tv
- Follow prompts
No Volume in Any Channel Blackrose or Hive Only good everywhere else
- If you're experiencing volume in other parts of your Firestick or apps but not in Black rose, try the following steps:
- Select any channel and ensure it's in full-screen mode. Wait for the banner at the bottom of the screen to disappear.
- Then, using the directional ring, click on the right side until a small volume bar appears.
- Continue clicking right to increase the volume all the way up.
Hiding Categories you wish not to see
- If you want to hide certain categories while using live TV, you can follow these steps:
- Navigate to the bottom of the main screen, select 'Settings', and then 'Parental Controls'.
- The default password will be displayed; do not change it.
- After entering, click on any channels or items you wish to hide during navigation, and a padlock icon will appear.
- After making selections in the three main sections, click 'On' for parental controls at the top, then exit.
- Your channel list will now appear much shorter.
- (Ensure you do not lock the 'Favorites' menu, or you will not be able to view your favorite channels).
Just circles never loads but app runs and signs in
- If you encounter a situation where the app loads but fails to open a channel, simply spinning without loading, here's what to do:
- Press the home button, navigate to settings (the gear icon on the right), go to applications, and then to manage applications.
- Locate 'Black rose', select it, press 'Force Stop', and then 'Clear Cache'.
- Afterward, press the home button and attempt to open the channel again; this could resolve a corrupted cache issue.
Black Rose DVR Function Called Catchup
- For Black Rose customers, at the main screen with the four large squares, navigate to the bottom option labeled "catchup."
- Clicking there will display all the content you've missed on your preferred network, including FOOTBALL.
- For instance, to catch up on last Sunday's games, select the appropriate network, choose the date, and scroll to locate the game.
- Keep in mind, you have 36 hours from the original air date to view the missed content.
Firestick becomes Un-Responsive
- Trace the power cord from the Fire Stick, which is connected to the back of the TV, down to the outlet.
- Unplug the cord from the adapter that's inserted into the outlet. This action will cut off power to the Fire Stick.
- Wait for 15 seconds, then plug it back in.
- This will reboot the Fire Stick, and everything should work properly.
- If you can't get to the power adaptor or back of the tv, simply press the play/pause button and center of the ring simultaneously for 8 secs and a reboot message will pop up.
How to remove movies or series you've watched in Continue watching section
- After finishing a movie or series, Black Rose records it in the 'Continue Watching' section because most viewers stop playback when the credits start at the end. If you complete the movie or show, it won't appear there. To remove items from this list, follow these steps (best done immediately after viewing to avoid clutter):
- Go to 'Continue Watching.'
- Select the title you wish to remove.
- Start playing the title and hit resume; as soon as the blank loading screen shows, quickly press the back button until you reach the list where you started.
- Navigate to a different category, above or below 'Continue Watching.' Revisit 'Continue Watching,' and the title should have been removed.
- FOR A LONG LIST: Execute steps 1-3 for each title, playing, resuming, and backing out.
- After doing this on all titles, follow step 4, and your list should be empty upon return.
IPTV Smarters for Computer
You will first have to download the file that's in here then open it up on your computer and create your username and password which is the same as your black rose on the fire stick