How disappointing is it when you find that Netflix keeps buffering on Firestick or TV?
We get it, we’ve been there!, that is why we have built this awesome guide to help you diagnose the problem and stop Netflix buffering!
Why does Netflix keep buffering?
The common reason why Netflix keeps buffering on your streaming device is due to a software or internet connectivity issue.
Just like your car, both your internet connection and streaming device require the occasional maintenance to keep them operating with optimal efficiency.
How do I fix Netflix buffering?
Ok, let’s get to it and try and stop Netflix buffering on your streaming device!
Method 1: Restart your Firestick or Streaming Device
It is a good idea to restart your streaming device if you want to stop buffering on Netflix.
By restarting your Firestick, you give the opportunity for any updates to be correctly installed and reduce the possibility of a buffing hindering the ability to enjoy Netflix.
Unplug your streaming device for 60 seconds before plugging it back in.
This allows a power cycle to take place and can eradicate some of the software issues that may affect your streaming performance.
Method 2: Reset your Router can stop Netflix buffering
As internet connectivity is one of the common reasons why Netflix buffers, resetting your router is a great idea.
How do I reset my router?
Reset your router by unplugging it for 60 seconds before plugging it back in.
Taking this step will “power-cycle” your router and create a new internet connection with both your streaming device and Netflix.
Once the internet is restored to your streaming device, load up Netflix to see if the choppy playback persists.
Method 3: Restart the Netflix app
It is a good idea to restart the Netflix app if you are experiencing buffering issues.
By restarting the Netflix app, you give the opportunity for any updates to be correctly installed and establish a new connection with the Netflix servers.
Sometimes, the buffering can be eliminated by this simple step.
Method 4: Update your streaming device & Netflix app
If you have not done so already, now is the time to update both your streaming device and Netflix app.
Software enhancements can improve the performance of both Netflix and your streamin device when it comes to buffering and internet connectivity.
Method 5: Check that the Netflix servers are the cause of buffering
When Netflix playback is choppy, there could be an issue with the Netflix service itself.
Before you dive deeper into the other fixes that are listed below, it is worthwhile checking that there are no issues or outages with the Netflix platform.
Method 6: Decrease Video Quality
Check in the Netflix app options when watching content if there is a toggle for video quality.
The higher the quality of content that you play, the more likely it is that Netflix buffering will occur on your streaming devkce.
Try and decrease the video quality, especially if you have the quality set to 4K.
Method 7: Sign out of the Netflix app
Another potential quick fix to the Netflix buffering problem is to sign out of your account.
Completing this step helps by clearing some of the Netflix cache and it establishes a new connection to the Netflix servers which by itself can help in eliminating the buffering.
Method 8: Disconnect other devices in your home from the internet
Is someone in your home watching Netflix? What about your phone? Is someone downloading games or apps on XBOX?
Every device that you can disconnect from your internet connection will help in stopping the Netflix buffering issues.
Method 9: Use an Ethernet cable rather than Wi-Fi
It is almost always true that when you use an Ethernet (Wired Connection) rather than Wi-Fi, you will get a better download speed.
Wired connections transmit data quicker and with less interference. There are also fewer variables that can hinder the quality of connection.
Wi-Fi connections are slower and generally have a slower response time.
The distance from your playback device along with the walls, floor, and ceilings can all deteriorate the quality of your internet connection, causing the Netflix app buffering issues on Firestick.
I always use a wired connection when it is available, and you should too!
Method 10: Disable any Ad blockers or VPNs
VPNs and Ad blockers can negatively affect the playback performance of the Netflix app.
Your connection to a VPN will always limit the speed at which you can play content.
We understand that using a VPN can be a sensible choice, especially due to privacy concerns.
Unfortunately, by using a VPN, you are creating another dependency that can cause Netflix to buffer if there are any problems or limited speed.
Method 11: Contact Amazon or Netlfix if the buffering persist
If you have tried all of the suggestions in this article, then it’s time to contact Netflix support for further assistance.
Conclusion
As you can see, the vast majority of issues that cause Netflix to buffer are preventable and can be fixed with a little maintenance.
We hope that our guide was able to help you get back to enjoying Netflix.