If you are a Netflix subscriber, you’ve likely encountered the annoying Netflix error code NW-2-5 while trying to stream a movie.
I experienced this error recently, and I’ll share the solutions that helped me fix it with you.
The error often comes with this message: “Netflix has encountered an error. Retrying in 20 seconds. Code: NW-2-5”
This error can occur on devices ranging from smartphones, tablets, PCs, game consoles, and streaming sticks.
Let’s find out how you can resolve this error
What Causes the Netflix Error Code NW-2-5?
The Netflix Error Code NW-2-5 is an error code that’s often related to an internet connection problem.
If you have a weak internet connection, or your internet subscription plan has been exhausted, you’ll get this error.
However, you can also get this due to software glitches caused by outdated software, corrupted cache files, etc.
Additionally, if you have software or tools like a firewall, VPN, or proxy server on your device, the Code: NW-2-5 error is going to come up.
This is because software like this can block your connection and prevent Netflix from functioning efficiently.
How to Fix Netflix Error Code NW-2-5
Method 1: Troubleshoot your network
As I mentioned earlier, the error code NW-2-5 is mainly caused by a connection problem. The connection issue could be a weak, device not connected to the internet or expired data subscription.
So, the first thing you’d want to do to resolve this error is troubleshooting your internet connection.
Follow the steps to troubleshoot your network:
Check your internet connection speed
You must confirm whether your internet connection is fast enough to stream Netflix.
Bear in mind that in some cases, you need at least 25Mbps internet speed to stream seamlessly on Netflix.
You can check your internet speed on websites like fast.com.
If your internet is slow, the following solutions will help you improve it.
Power cycle your router
When you power cycle your router, it refreshes your connectivity and clears the catch, allowing you to browse at an improved speed.
Unplug your router from the power source to power cycle, then wait for 60 seconds.
After 60 seconds, plug the router back into the socket, turn it on, and reconnect your streaming device.
Your connection speed should be better at this point.
Switch to 5GHz
If your router is a dual-band router, I suggest that you switch from 2.4GHz to 5GHz.
Once you do so, take your router closer to the device you’re using to stream Netflix.
The 5GHz frequency has a stronger data transmission speed than 2.4GHz, but the coverage is lower.
Disconnect other devices from your network and close apps
I understand that you could be sharing your router with other users or devices, meaning you will have more than one device connected.
The problem, however, is that if these connected devices consume high bandwidth, there will be nothing left for Netflix to function with.
The best option is to disconnect them. Also, if you have other bandwidth-consuming apps, running in the background of your device, disconnect them to free up space.
Switch from Wi-Fi to ethernet cable.
Use an ethernet cable to connect your router directly to your streaming device rather than Wi-Fi where possible.
A wired connection with ethernet cable usually transmits data faster and stronger, so you will be able to resolve the Netflix error code NW-2-5
Method 2: Power Cycle your streaming device:
Power cycle the device if you are streaming Netflix with devices like streaming sticks, smart TVs, game consoles, etc.
Like on your router, a power cycle can reset your device and fix glitches that can develop over time to cause the NW-2-5 error.
It is also the simplest way to clear cache on Netflix. Netflix cache often gets corrupted after some time, which can lead to the error you’re dealing with.
How to Power Cycle your device:
- Unplug the device you’re using for Netflix streaming from the socket
- Press and hold the power button for 30 seconds (this will help drain any residual charge).
- Wait for 60 seconds after that
- Plug the device back into the power source and turn it on
Additionally, if you use a mobile device, tablet, or PC, restart the device and try connecting again.
Method 3. Update Netflix
Netflix constantly releases new updates for the platform.
Things like bug fixes and new features are often added in the update to improve the functionality of Netflix.
But if you are still using an outdated version of the platform or app, you will most likely run into compatibility issues, which will show up as the Netflix NW-2-5 error.
To update Netflix, visit the app store on your device and search for Netflix.
If there is any available update, you will find the “Update” button close to it. Click on the button to download the available update.
Method 4: Check Netflix server status:
If you’re still experiencing the error, check Netflix server status to confirm if the server is still up.
Netflix sometimes takes down their server briefly for maintenance, and if this is where your problem is coming from, you need to exercise a little patience until the server is back up.
Method 5: Delete and reinstall the app
Another way to resolve the Netflix Effor Code NW-2-5 is by deleting the app from your device and reinstalling it.
The app file may have been corrupted, so deleting and installing it again allows you to run Netflix on a new app file that won’t give you issues.
Method 6: Disable VPN and Ad blockers
VPN and ad blockers are good, but when you are streaming Netflix, they can cause more harm than good.
A VPN connection can reduce your network speed due to the encryption processes involved. Of course, slow network speed can in turn cause the Netflix error code NW-2-5.
Method 7: Contact Support
If none of these methods work, contact Netflix support for further assistance.
Final Thoughts
The solutions I’ve provided in this guide are the exact solutions that helped me resolve the Netflix error code NW-2-5, and hopefully, they work for you as well.
Don’t forget to share this guide with someone experiencing the same error.