remote won't pair with tv

What remote are you talking about? And which device are you using? If it's the Dtv Stream box remote, you need a Dtv Stream box.

Hello buck18. Thank you for the update on the troubleshooting steps. We will need to gather more information to check the best suitable troubleshooting steps, so you can enjoy your DIRECTV service. Meet us in a DM to continue the assistance. Juan, DIRECTV Community Specialist

I have a relatively new Samsung smart TV and have been directv streaming for a few months, using the simple remote that came with the tv and later, a universal samsung remote that has so many buttons that don't do anything.  I have been able to navigate through the various menus, going through the guide, recording, playing back and using streaming services.  Amazon listed a specific directv remote which has fewer buttons, all of which serve a useful purpose.  I just cannot pair it with my tv.  Juan, I am 83 years old and have no idea how to meet you in a "DM".  I would LOVE to talk with you.   Thanks for the offer to help.

Are you using the DirecTV Stream App on your Samsung TV?  Or a dedicated DirecTV Stream box?  

The DirecTV Remote will not work with the Samsung TV's DirecTV Stream App. It only works with the DirecTV Stream box and provides limited control of on/off & volume for the paired TV. 

I would buy the box, if I knew all the buttons on the dedicated directv stream remote would function.  Would they?

If you have a DirecTV Stream box then, yes, all of its remote buttons will function. That's what that remote control is designed for. 

Thank you, I will see about getting a box.  I appreciate your help.

I see brand new Directv stream boxes with remotes on ebay for $68.  It's the C71kw-200.  Am I taking a chance?

(Is the box also called a player?)

Do NOT buy from eBay. Many of those are older boxes, or boxes still active on someone else's account. You won't be able to activate them.