The following are commonly identified as primary factors of this issue:
1. Re-log into Netflix
A temporary glitch within Netflix might disrupt proper server communication, potentially leading to the buffering issue. Re-logging into Netflix could resolve this.
2. Perform a Cold Restart of the Devices and Networking Equipment
Buffering can also be a result of a temporary communication glitch between your device and the Netflix servers. A cold restart of the problematic devices and networking equipment may resolve this.
3. Update the OS of the Device to the Latest Build
An outdated device OS might be incompatible with Netflix, causing the buffering issue. Updating your device’s OS to the latest build could resolve this. We’ll illustrate the process using an Apple TV’s firmware update as an example.
4. Update the Router’s Firmware to the Latest Build
Netflix may continue to buffer if the router’s firmware is outdated, which could lead to data packet parsing issues. Updating the firmware might rectify the Netflix buffering issue.
5. Try Another Network or Network Type
If the current network is throttling or capping Netflix traffic, as some ISPs do for streaming services, trying a different network or connection type (like Ethernet) may solve the problem. If the problem does not persist on a different network, then it may be related to your primary network setup. Directly connecting your device to the internet (bypassing the router) could pinpoint whether the router is the source of the issue.
6. Disable the QuickStart Feature on the Device
The Quick Start or Quick Boot feature, found in devices such as LG TVs, allows for a faster boot-up by not fully powering down certain system modules when switched off. However, if a device encounters a temporary glitch leading to buffering issues on Netflix, that glitch might persist through multiple restarts. Disabling this feature could solve the Netflix buffering problem.
7. Disable QoS of the Router
Routers with QoS features prioritize web traffic, allowing what is deemed more important to pass first. If the QoS is set to prioritize other traffic over Netflix, this can cause buffering as data packets for Netflix aren’t released promptly. Turning off QoS might resolve the problem.
8. Disable the Daisy Chain Network Topology (if applicable)
In a mesh network, the Daisy Chain topology permits network nodes to link to the router via another nearby node. However, this can introduce extra lag in the Netflix data packet transmissions and may cause buffering. Disabling Daisy Chain in the router settings could address this issue. We’ll illustrate using an Orbi router’s settings as an example.
9. Change the MTU Size in the Router Settings
The MTU size determines the maximum data unit that can be transmitted over a network. If the MTU size set by your router is not compatible with Netflix servers, it could result in buffering, as the servers might take longer to parse the data. Changing the MTU size in router settings might resolve the Netflix problem. We’ll describe how to do this using the example of a Huawei ONT router.
10. Disable the Router’s Security Plugin
Many routers, like the NetGear Orbi, feature built-in security plugins such as Orbi Armor. If these security plugins are filtering data traffic from Netflix servers, processing by the security modules may increase the buffering time of Netflix and cause issues. Disabling the security plugin could solve the problem. We’ll take a look at disabling Orbi Armor as an example, which has been reported to cause such issues. Warning: Proceed with caution and at your own risk, as disabling security features may expose your network and devices to threats. Consult with your ISP first and then proceed.
11. Reinstall the Netflix App
Faulty installation of the Netflix app could lead to buffering issues, possibly due to incompatibilities with its servers. Reinstalling the Netflix app might resolve these issues. Here is how to reinstall the Netflix app on Android devices for reference:
12. Change the Bitrate of the Stream
Those with slower internet connections may experience buffering. If your internet connection isn’t particularly fast, you could try decreasing the bitrate of the Netflix stream to mitigate the issue. First, ensure that any refresh rate applications Control + Shift + Option + S (for macOS) to open the hidden menu.
13. Reset the Browser Settings to the Defaults
Incorrect browser configuration could interfere with the proper functioning of the Netflix website, leading to buffering. Resetting your browser to its default settings may address the issue. The following illustrates the process using Google Chrome. If after following all the above steps the issue remains unresolved, and particularly if it was fixed on a different network, you should contact your ISP’s support to rectify the problem. Otherwise, reaching out to Netflix customer service or the support for your device (like Apple Support) may help you resolve the issue.
