Readers like you help support MUO. When you make a purchase using links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Read more.
When you get a chance to kick back and watch a movie, the last thing you want to worry about is Netflix not working. However, it turns out that there are many reasons why Netflix goes wrong.
With that in mind, we've put together a list of the most common Netflix issues. Most importantly, it includes troubleshooting solutions to help you get your Netflix up and running again. However, before we dive into any of them, there are a few things you need to do.
First, check the Netflix status
Before we look at the possible causes of Netflix not loading or crashing, we need to look at an essential first step that you should take: checking Netflix for any performance issues. If Netflix is down, there is no app update or restart you can do to fix the problem.
The first place you can go to check the status of Netflix in your area is aNetflix Help Center Page. Of course, you could also head over to Twitter and search for "Netflix off" and see if other people are complaining too; With a service as popular as Netflix, you can be pretty sure someone is using Twitter to voice their displeasure.
Other sites can help you determine if others are having issues with Netflix in your area, includingfall detectoryIt's low now. If all goes well and nothing is wrong with Netflix, chances are the technical issue is on your end.
Now that it's fixed, let's see what you can do to fix your Netflix issues.
1. Your Netflix app keeps crashing
It's happened to all of us at some point; one of your favorite apps suddenly starts crashing every time you try to use it. Once the initial panic has passed, there are a few steps you can take to fix the problem, but a lot depends on the device you are using.
Smartphone users should start by force-stopping the Netflix app. If it still doesn't work, try turning your phone off and on again. And if it still doesn't work, you'll need to delete the app and reinstall it from the relevant app store. The same methodology applies if you are using a streaming decoder.
If you are using Netflix on your smart TV, you may not be able to remove the app. Instead, try logging out of the app, clearing your TV's cache, and logging back in. Or, if you're using the Netflix app on Windows, try disabling your antivirus software. This is because many security packages interfere with the service.
2. You see Netflix error 12001 on Android
Many Android users complain of seeing error code 12001 when using the app on their devices. This issue affects smartphones and tablets.
Error code 12001 is caused by outdated data on your device. You need to refresh the data for the Netflix app to work again. But how is the data updated?
Open the Android Settings app, go toSettings > Applications > Applications, scroll down and tap the Netflix entry. In the Netflix submenu, go toStore,so playerase datayLimpar hides.
For other issues similar to this one, seeour guide to fixing Netflix error codes.
3. You cannot download content from Netflix
In 2016, Netflix finally started offering users a way to download content for offline viewing. That means you can load TV shows and movies before a long plane ride or if you know you'll be traveling to an area with poor Internet coverage. Unfortunately, this feature doesn't always work perfectly. If you're having trouble downloading content, there are a few steps you can take.
First of all, if you are using a jailbroken iPhone or rooted Android device, you can stop right now. The function will not work.
Second, make sure you are running at least Android 4.4.2 or iOS 8, have the most up-to-date version of the Netflix app, and have enough storage space on your phone.
If all else fails, try reinstalling Netflix on your phone or tablet.
4. You see Netflix error 1012 on iOS
2 images
Error 1012 is exclusively limited to iOS users. It signals a network connectivity issue: your Netflix app is unable to access the Netflix servers.
You can follow some simple troubleshooting steps to try to fix the problem. For example, try restarting the app, restarting your device, and restarting your home network.
If none of these solutions work, then you will need to reset the Netflix app from the iOS settings menu. GoSettings > Netflixand toggleRestartem.
Make sure you sign out of any existing Netflix sessions by going to the app switcher, swiping the Netflix app and restarting Netflix. You will need to re-enter your login credentials.
5. You see a black screen on the desktop
If you are using Netflix on Windows or macOS, you may encounter a black screen every time you try to play a video.
This problem has four main causes:
- Cookies:Try deleting your browser's cookies. Precise instructions vary from browser to browser, but generally you'll find the option on thesettingsmenu.
- gray light:Microsoft retired Silverlight several years ago (although plug-ins are still available for some browsers). If you still have it installed on your system, it may be preventing the video from playing and you will need to remove it.
- antivirus:Some antivirus packages do not work well with Netflix. Try temporarily disabling the security software you are using.
- Drivers:Make sure your PC's graphics driver is up to date. While you're at it, update all your drivers.
If you still see a black screen, try using a different browser or disable any plugins you are using. you might want tooinvestigates how Chrome components can break Netflix.
6. There are too many users watching Netflix
Netflix offers tiered pricing plans, each of which allows more people to use Netflix simultaneously. The superior plan is limited to four people.
If you see a message saying, "Your Netflix account is in use on another device. Please stop playing on other devices to continue," that's your problem. You can terminate all existing sessions by accessingAccount > Settings > Sign Out on All Devices.
For a less drastic solution, you cansee who is using your netflix accountvouAccount > Settings > Recent Device Streaming Activityto see a list of current sessions. The list will help you identify which users are online. You can persuade one of them to log off.
Note that you can check how many concurrent screens your current plan allows by going toAccount > Plan Details.
7. You can't sign in to Netflix
The obvious solution here is to reset your password. And in the future, be sure to use a password manager, which should keep you from entering passwords incorrectly.Password managers are easy to organize, then the task should not be so daunting.
However, it's worth checking your email inbox before hitting the reset button. Something more sinister may be at play. Unsuspecting users' Netflix login credentials are changing hands for insignificant amounts of money on the dark web. They are usually purchased by people who cannot create a Netflix account in their own country.
If Netflix notices suspicious login behavior, it will lock your account and send you an email prompting you to create a new password. Remember, if yourNetflix account was hacked, you must change your password in any other application or service for which you used the same credentials.
8. Netflix not loading
What can you do if Netflix won't load? If you are faced with a spinning red circle that is stuck at a certain percentage, what is the solution?
Here are some tips to try:
- Close the Netflix app and restart it.
- Restart your device.
- Sign out of your Netflix account and sign in again.
- Restart your router.
- Update the Netflix app.
- Sign out of Netflix on all your devices.
- Reinstall the Netflix app.
- Use a VPN to bypass ISP throttling.
9. Netflix not working on your Smart TV
The Netflix app that comes built into some smart TVs is known to be less reliable than the desktop, mobile and set-top box versions. Most of the time, this is due to failures in the TV's internal hardware rather than an issue with Netflix.
Samsung's smart TVs are especially problematic; they run the internal Linux-based Tizen OS instead of Roku OS or Android TV.
If Netflix is not working on your Samsung Smart TV, there are a few things you can try.
In the first place,Turn off the tvfrom the wall, wait 30 seconds and plug it back in. Then try to disable Samsung Instant On; some users have found that the feature interferes with installed apps, including Netflix.
If all else fails, try doing a factory reset from your TV's settings menu. Unfortunately, this means that you will lose all settings and data. Therefore, only use this as a last resort.
10. Netflix's infamous "unexpected error"
One of the most common Netflix errors is the "Unexpected Error". It looks like Netflix is pulling an "oops" face and shrugging it off, leaving you alone with the problem. The message suggests that you reload the page and try again.
If you get this error on your TV, we suggest you close the app and restart Netflix. If this happens on your phone, force close the app and restart it. If this happens on your browser, press the refresh button. If that fails,clear your cookies, cache and browser history in chromeor whatever browser you use, and that should clear up any issues.
Is your Netflix account working again?
Based on our research, these are the most common issues people have with Netflix. Still, following our troubleshooting tips, hopefully Netflix will be back up and running and you can get back to watching your favorite shows.
FAQs
Why is Netflix all of a sudden not working? ›
This usually happens when data stored on your device needs to be refreshed, or when a network issue stops Netflix from loading.
How do I get Netflix to work again? ›- Restart Device (All) The first thing that you must do if Netflix isn't working is restart the concerned device. ...
- Check Netflix Status (All) ...
- Check the Internet Connection (All) ...
- Check the Device Limit (TV & PC) ...
- Update the App (All) ...
- Turn Off VPN (All) ...
- Turn On Cellular Data (iPhone) ...
- Clear Cache and Data (Android, TV and PC)
We are not currently experiencing an interruption to our streaming service.
How do you reset Netflix on a smart TV? ›From the Home screen, select “Settings.” Find the Netflix app. Select Netflix. Toggle the Reset switch to the on position.
What happens if you reset Netflix? ›Reset the Netflix app
Resetting the app will delete any titles you have downloaded to the device.
From the menu at the top of the screen select Purchased. Select Netflix. If an update is available select Update. If no update is available, continue troubleshooting below.
How do I reset my Netflix device? ›Tap and hold the Netflix app icon, then tap App info. Tap Storage & cache > Clear storage > OK. Try Netflix again.
How do I unfreeze Netflix on my Smart TV? ›- Turn off your device. If your device has a power cable, unplug it.
- Make sure your device is completely off, not just in sleep or standby mode.
- Leave your device off for 15 seconds.
- Turn on your device and try Netflix again.
- Open the Play Store app and search for Netflix.
- From the Netflix app store page, tap Uninstall.
- To confirm, tap Uninstall again.
- Tap Install.
- Wait for the app to install, then tap Open.
- Try Netflix again.
It usually means that there's a network connectivity issue that is preventing your device from reaching Netflix.
Why is Netflix not working on my smart TV today? ›
Netflix not working on your Samsung Smart TV could be due to your internet connection. For starters, you need a stable enough data connection. Netflix recommends at least 1Mbps to operate, but that is for streaming in SD resolution. You'll need 5Mbps for 1080p, or 15Mbps for 4K streaming.
What is error code 17377 on Netflix? ›A problem occurred while playing this item. Try again later or select a different item. This error happens when an issue with data stored on your device stops Netflix from playing.
Why is Netflix not connecting to internet? ›Restart your home network
Turn off your device, then unplug your modem and router from power. After 30 seconds, plug in your modem and router. Wait 1 minute, then turn on your device. Try Netflix again.
...
Most Android devices
- Open the Google Play Store app.
- Search for Netflix.
- From the Netflix app store page, select Uninstall. Uninstalling the Netflix app will delete any TV shows and movies you have downloaded to the device.
- To confirm, select OK.
You can restart your Netflix account at any time. We keep your Viewing Activity for 10 months after your account closes, so it will be available if you restart within that time. Also available for 10 months are: Your recommendations.
Does Netflix need to be updated? ›A new version of the Netflix app is available and required to continue. It means the Netflix app needs to be updated. Click Update now, or follow these steps to update the Netflix app using the Microsoft Store.
Why does Netflix keep crashing on my TV? ›If the Netflix app crashes or closes and takes you back to your device's menu screen or live television, it usuallly means data stored on your device needs to be refreshed.
What is my Netflix password? ›If you can't remember your current password, head over to Netflix's Forgot Email/Password page and enter your email address or phone number. Netflix will then send you a link to reset your password. You can choose whether or not to stay logged in to Netflix on your devices when you change your password.
Why does Netflix keep saying we re having trouble playing this title right now? ›' This error can happen when a network issue stops your device from reaching Netflix, or if there's a problem with the TV show or movie you're trying to watch.
How do I reset Netflix on my LG Smart TV? ›From within the Netflix app, use the arrows on your remote to enter the following sequence: Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, Up, Up, Up, Up. Select Sign out, Start Over, Deactivate, or Reset.
Why is Netflix not working on Roku? ›
Make sure to update the Roku Android app or the Roku iOS app, depending on which device you own. If Netflix still doesn't work, try completely deleting the Roku app from your Android or iOS and then reinstall it from scratch. Make sure your Netflix account is still active.
How do I contact Netflix help? ›If you're a Netflix member, sign in to the Netflix app and follow these steps: Tap More or profile . Tap Help. Tap the Call or Chat button.
How do I clear the cache on my smart TV? ›- Open the Settings screen. How to access Settings. ...
- The next steps will depend on your TV menu options: Select Apps — See all apps. ...
- Select desired app that you want to remove cache.
- Select Clear cache then OK. ...
- Select Clear data then OK.
This change will impact select 2010 and 2011 Samsung Smart TV models that were sold in the U.S. and Canada. Affected devices will receive a notification reflecting this change.
How do I get my smart TV to work with Netflix? ›- Press the Smart Hub button.
- Select Netflix.
- Select Sign In. If you do not see Sign In, select Yes on the Are you a member of Netflix? screen. If you are not yet a member, set up your membership online.
- Enter your Netflix email address and password.
- Select Sign In.
This error is related to the Microsoft Silverlight plug-in, which your browser uses to play Netflix. Microsoft no longer supports this plug-in. We suggest using a browser that supports HTML5, like Microsoft Edge or Safari.
What is error code n7361 1253 on Netflix? ›This error usually means Google Chrome needs an update to play Netflix, or that data stored on your device needs to be refreshed.
What is error code 07121 3078 on Netflix? ›Looks like this version of your browser is no longer supported. Please install the latest version to continue watching. It means that the version of Google Chrome you're using on your computer is no longer supported.
Why is Netflix buffering today? ›Why does Netflix keep buffering? Netflix might keep buffering for several reasons like a slow internet connection, buggy updates, higher streaming quality than your device's capability, or a server issue from Netflix itself. This article discussed every possible way to fix Netflix's buffering problem.
How do I clear my Netflix cache? ›Tap and hold the Netflix app icon, then tap App info. Tap Storage & cache > Clear storage > OK.
How to fix Netflix when it says this title is not available in your area? ›
For Android & iOS Devices
Download any Good VPN App for your Mobile and Connect your Phone to your desired VPN Country. Now Open Settings and Clear the Data and Cache of the Netflix App. Search for the Title you are looking for and Enjoy the movie for free.
It indicates that you have traveled to a country where we do not currently offer the title you've downloaded. Due to regional licensing agreements and rights, we are not able to offer all titles for download in all countries.
Why does my TV keep buffering but internet is fine? ›Essentially, buffering is caused by a slow or overloaded network. If your home broadband connection isn't up to scratch, video data can't load quickly enough while you watch. That's when your stream pauses to play catch-up. It's waiting for enough data to load that you can keep watching without annoying lag.
Why is Netflix not working on my smart TV? ›Turn off or unplug your smart TV. Unplug your modem (and your wireless router, if it's a separate device) from power for 30 seconds. Plug in your modem and wait until no new indicator lights are blinking on. If your router is separate from your modem, plug it in and wait until no new indicator lights are blinking on.
Why does Netflix keep crashing on my smart TV? ›If the Netflix app crashes or closes and takes you back to your device's menu screen or live television, it usuallly means data stored on your device needs to be refreshed.