Santa brought you a Roku 3? Here's what to do first

The market is thick for set-top boxes these days, but Roku 3 tends to be the most popular choice with many consumers. It's simple to set up and has perhaps the most content. The "channels", as Roku calls them, are an ever-growing ecosystem of networks and online content.

The steps for getting it up and running are fairly simple. The box will help you along, walking you through each step. The first, and most obvious, is plugging it in to an outlet and then connecting the HDMI cable.

Switch your TV selection to that port and boot up the Roku 3. For the first few seconds you will see the splash screen, then the device will begin walking you through the steps, beginning with choosing a language.

This is followed by the remote control paring, which should happen automatically. You perhaps noticed the remote came with a set of earbuds (purple, you don't have a choice, though you can use your own). This allows you to plug into the remote and listen while not disturbing others in your home. It's also handy for music channels like Pandora if you wish to listen while moving around.

Next up is your Wi-Fi network, which could require the entry of password if you've encrypted it, as you should. Green check marks should pop up once everything is connected. Now you'll get a link that explains you need to go to your computer and enter it in in order to get a unique code that is required. You'll also need to create a Roku account at this point, but it's free. It's simply in case you wish to purchase paid content.

Now that you're up and running, you'll find some pre-installed channels, but you can head into the channel store and choose from hundreds more. Some will cost you a monthly fee, such as Hulu Plus. Others are a one-time charge, like Plex.

You're now all ready to kick back and enjoy whatever content suits your tastes. It's a great device and you should get lots of joy out of it. We hope you got one, or whatever other piece of technology your heart desired this holiday season.