It is noteworthy that over 75 million subscribers love Netflix, but it can get frustrating when the movies keep buffering. Are you annoyed when Netflix stops to load? If this happens to you, you are on the right track! We are here to guide and explain why Netflix keeps buffering and give you 8 easy ways to fix it. These tricks will surely help you enjoy your favorite shows without any more interruptions. Let's beat the buffering together and get back to your favorite shows on Netflix without that buffering issue!
In this article
Why Does Netflix Keep Buffering?
Netflix is a popular streaming service that offers a huge collection of movies, TV shows, documentaries, and more. It allows you to watch content on devices like TVs, computers, and smartphones by connecting to the internet. But sometimes, while watching your favorite movies, a buffering will come. What are the possible reasons?
- Slow Internet Connection
Internet speed is crucial for streaming. With sluggish internet speed, Netflix can't load content quickly enough. This situation may lead to those annoying buffering pauses. So, upgrading your internet plan or troubleshooting your connection can resolve this issue.
- Device Performance
Older devices or ones with limited processing power struggle to handle high-definition streaming. This can cause stuttering or buffering as the device struggles to keep up. Upgrading your device or closing other applications can help it perform better while streaming.
- Network Congestion
At peak times, like in the evenings when more people are online, internet traffic increases. This congestion can slow down your internet speed, affecting your Netflix stream. Consider streaming during off-peak hours or optimizing your network settings to alleviate this.
- Router Issues
Problems with your router, such as outdated firmware or poor placement, can interfere with your Netflix stream. Updating your router or repositioning it can improve streaming quality.
- App or Browser Problems
Outdated apps or improper browser settings can also contribute to buffering. Ensure your Netflix app or browser is updated to the latest version and check settings to optimize streaming performance.
- Streaming Quality Settings
Higher-quality settings demand more bandwidth. If your internet connection is weak, choosing a lower-quality setting in your Netflix can prevent buffering.
Why Do You Need to Fix Netflix Buffering Issue?
Dealing with constant buffering on Netflix can be incredibly frustrating. It interrupts your favorite shows or movies and more. But why should you bother fixing this issue?
- Uninterrupted Enjoyment: Imagine being on the edge of your seat during a thrilling scene, only to be interrupted by buffering. Fixing this issue ensures smooth streaming, allowing you to watch without annoying disruptions. This uninterrupted flow maintains the immersion, making every show or movie more engaging.
- Time-Saving: Buffering not only interrupts your viewing experience but also extends your time watching. A 30-minute episode can turn into an hour-long ordeal with constant pauses. You reclaim your valuable time by fixing buffering, making your entertainment more efficient.
- Enhanced Experience: Smooth streaming isn't just about avoiding pauses. It's about experiencing content in its intended quality. When buffering is eliminated, you enjoy high-definition visuals and crystal-clear audio. This enhancement improves your overall viewing pleasure.
- Prevention of Frustration: Few things are as frustrating as being engrossed in a show and then having it repeatedly interrupted by buffering. Fixing this issue removes this source of irritation, creating a stress-free experience. It ensures that your entertainment time remains a source of relaxation rather than annoyance.
Addressing these issues isn't just about fixing technical problems. It is also about how to enhance your watching enjoyment on Netflix. Knowledge of the causes and the essence of fixing this buffering issue is important.
Top 8 Easy Fixes to Solve Netflix Buffering Issue
Struggling with Netflix buffering? Here are six simple solutions to ensure uninterrupted streaming. These easy fixes will address common causes, helping you enjoy your favorite movies.
1. Check the Internet
Buffering on Netflix often stems from slow internet speeds. Sometimes, this is the primary culprit behind interruptions. To start, verifying your internet speed on Fast.com is key. Netflix suggests 3 Mbps for Standard Definition, 5 Mbps for High Definition, and 25 Mbps for 4K/Ultra HD streaming.
2. Reboot Your Device
Extended use of your device can cause issues, like too much clutter in the RAM affecting performance. A quick fix? Restarting your device! It clears background apps, giving your device a clean slate. For smartphones, long-press the power button; for computers, use the Start Menu to Restart or Shut Down.
3. Adjust Video Stream Quality on Netflix
Adjusting the streaming quality on Netflix can help with slower internet connections. When set on Auto, Netflix chooses the best quality for your internet speed. If your default setting is High, consider lowering it to use less bandwidth. Sacrificing a bit of quality is a good choice, especially on smartphones, saving mobile data. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1. Go to the Netflix website in your web browser, click on your profile icon at the top-right corner, then select Account.
Step 2. Scroll down and choose the profile where you want to adjust streaming quality.
Step 3. Click on Playback settings.
Step 4. Opt for Medium or Low video quality, or keep it on Auto if you trust Netflix.
Step 5. Click Save to confirm your choice.
4. Shut Down Unneeded Apps and Tabs
If you can't restart your device, try closing other apps to free up more RAM for Netflix. Some apps, like heavy games or Photoshop, hog resources and can disrupt your Netflix experience. Similarly, if you're using Netflix on a browser, shut unnecessary tabs to allocate more RAM to Netflix.
5. Erase Browser Cache
To fix Netflix buffering, consider clearing your browser's cache. Follow these steps:
Step 1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete to access the cache-clearing feature. If this shortcut doesn't
work, find clear browsing data/history in your browser settings.
Step 2. Click "CLEAR DATA".
Step 3. Restart your browser to check if the issue persists.
If Netflix still buffers excessively, there's another fix you can attempt.
6. Delete App Data to Resolve Android's Netflix Buffering
You can fix the Netflix buffering issue using your Android and iPhone devices. If you want to know how, dive more here!
On Android
If Netflix on your Android phone keeps buffering, clearing the app data could solve the issue. Here's how:
Step 1. Press and hold the Netflix app icon on your home screen or in the app drawer.
Step 2. Tap App Info from the menu that appears. If you don't f.nd App Info, it might be represented by an i icon on your phone.
Step 3. Tap on Storage & cache and then select CLEAR STORAGE or ClEAR CACHE.
On iPhone
To clear Netflix's cache on an iPhone without uninstalling the app, follow these steps:
Step 1. Unlock your iPhone and open the Settings app.
Step 2. Scroll down to find the list of installed apps and tap on Netflix.
Step 3. In the Netflix settings, locate the Reset slider. Toggle it on and then off. This action clears the app's cache and data.
Step 4. Launch the Netflix app again. You must sign in again, as this reset logs you out.
Once signed in, your Netflix experience should feel refreshed and smoother.
7. Reinstall Netflix on Your Device
If Netflix keeps buffering on Android and iPhone and clearing app data isn't an option, reinstalling the app might help. Here's how:
On Android
Step 1. Press the Netflix icon on your home screen or in the app drawer and tap Uninstall in the context menu.
Step 2. Confirm by tapping Ok to remove the app from your smartphone.
Step 3. Download Netflix again from the Play Store. Reinstalling may resolve any issues.
On iPhone
Step 1. Press and hold the Netflix icon on your home screen or in the App Library.
Step 2. Tap Remove App and then Delete App to uninstall Netflix.
Step 3. Download Netflix from the App Store. Reinstalling could fix any problems you're experiencing.
8. Use Wondershare Repairit Desktop
If your Netflix video keeps buffering, Wondershare Repairit Video Repair can help. It is a tool that fixes broken video files so they can play smoothly again without losing quality. What's good about this tool is you can download it for free. If you have files in RSV, TS, M4V, AVI, MKV, 3GP, MP4, M2TS, MTS, MOV, FLV, MPEG, MXF, WMV, and INSV formats, then it is good! Repair it desktop can be repaired without limiting the number of videos to be fixed and the size. So, if you have Windows and Mac devices, don’t hesitate to download this tool trusted by over 5 million people!
If you are wondering how Wondershare Repairit Desktop does the repairing of your Netflix video buffering, here’s how:
Step 1. Get Wondershare Repairit on your Windows or Mac.
Step 2. Press the +Add button within the Video Repair section to fix the Netflix video files in the repair list.
Step 3. After uploading the damaged Netflix video files, please select the Repair button to start the video repair process.
When the repair is done, a window asking you to save and view the fixed Netflix videos will appear. Simply click OK to save them.
Step 4. Press the Preview button to view the repaired Netflix videos. You can ensure they are fully fixed before preserving them by doing this.
If the repaired Netflix videos appear good for you, select Save and choose a location to store them. However, avoid saving them in the same location where they were initially harmed.
Save the repaired Netflix videos will take a few moments, so please be patient.
Consequences of Declining to Fix the Netflix Buffering Issue
If you face a Netflix buffering issue, ignoring it leads to frustration, wasted time, and reduced enjoyment. Here are the consequences of not fixing buffering problems.
- Reduced Enjoyment: Buffering doesn't just interrupt; it dilutes the quality of your viewing pleasure. The constant breaks affect the flow and impact of the content. And what's worse, it lessens the overall satisfaction from your favorite shows and movies.
- Missed Details: Think of buffering as a hiccup in your story absorption. Those interruptions might cause you to miss important moments that affect the understanding of the plot or character.
- Strained Relationships: Shared viewing experiences can become strained when buffering acts as an unwelcome third wheel. Interruptions during a group watch can lead to annoyance and disappointment among viewers.
- Data Wastage: Besides the frustration, each buffering moment gulps down data. This can lead to unnecessary usage charges, especially on limited data plans. It's like paying for interrupted service—an unwelcome expense for a less-than-ideal experience.
Final Thought
Making a move to fix your Netflix buffering issue is a good idea. We highly try these offered fixes as it is easy to do and has a high rate of fix. We are giving you a goodluck when performing such fixes! And remember, Wondershare Repairit Desktop can fix that issue easily. This professional tool will do the process for you. So don't hesitate and fix it! Hoping you have a great watching experience on Netflix!
FAQ
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Is Netflix buffering caused by a problem with my device or the service itself?
Netflix buffering can stem from multiple factors. It might not always be a problem with your device; sometimes, it's due to issues with the internet connection. Exploring the provided fixes can help identify whether the problem lies with your device, network, or the service. -
How often should I restart my router or device to prevent Netflix buffering?
There isn't a fixed frequency for restarting routers or devices to prevent buffering. If you notice consistent buffering issues, trying a restart can be a quick troubleshooting step. However, establishing a routine might not be necessary unless you encounter streaming problems. It's often more about troubleshooting when issues arise rather than setting a regular schedule. -
Is there a specific time when Netflix experiences the most buffering issues?
Netflix buffering can occur anytime, but peak usage periods are in the evenings or weekends. These times often experience higher internet traffic, leading to slower streaming speeds. Consider adjusting your viewing schedule to off-peak hours for a better watching experience.