There are a lot of great shows coming up on Netflix.
But… is your Firestick prepared to stream on the app?
If you’ve been having issues for a while, stay calm and stick with me.
I’ll give you some effective tips on how to fix your Netflix problems on Firestick.
Continue reading to read:
- 9 effective fixes for Netflix not working on Firestick.
- Common reasons why your Firestick isn’t running Netflix.
- Ways to improve your Firestick’s internet connection for streaming
- And a lot more…
Why is Netflix not working on my Firestick?
Netflix is not working on your Firestick because your app is experiencing bugs. Connectivity issues, server problems, and app versions are possible causes too. Lastly, your Firestick’s cache may be full of corrupted data, causing apps to crash or slow down.
Netflix not working on Firestick: 9 fixes
#1: Check if Netflix is down
The servers of the streaming platform can go down from time to time.
After all, it is the biggest streaming platform out there. Netflix needs regular maintenance to accommodate viewers like you.
Downtimes can also happen if there’s a serious security breach and Netflix wants to control it.
You can check out Netflix’s server status.
Unfortunately, there isn’t anything you can do about this problem other than to wait.
Check out also: Why is Netflix not working on my smart TV?
#2: Reset your Netflix on Firestick
The streaming app on your Firestick might just need to be reset to fix the problem.
This method is especially helpful if the app continues to freeze or crash.
How to reset Netflix on your Firestick
- Launch the Firestick and open the Settings menu.
- Select Applications.
- Select Managed Installed Applications.
- Select Netflix.
- Select Force Stop.
After following the steps above, relaunch your Netflix and check if it’s good to go.
If this step doesn’t work, you should…
Reinstall the Netflix app:
- Head to Settings.
- Select Applications.
- Select Manage Installed Applications.
- Select Netflix and Uninstall.
- Head to the main menu.
- Search for Netflix and reinstall the app.
Note: Reinstalling the app will include downloading all current updates. This may take a while, so be patient. Avoid power interruptions or network disconnections as this may result in more problems.
Read next: 5 Easy Steps To Reset Netflix On Smart TV
#3: Reset your Firestick
Is the device you’re using slowing down or crashing?
Then you might want to reset your Firestick.
This isn’t just a simple “on/off” procedure. You can start a reboot using the following steps:
- Head to main menu.
- Select Settings.
- Select My Fire TV.
- Select Restart.
A quick alternative method to do this would be to use your remote. Press and hold the Play and Select buttons at the same time. Do this for 4-5 seconds until your Firestick resets.
#4: Check your internet connection
If you’re streaming Netflix, it’s best to aim for a connection speed of at least 5mbps. This will let you stream shows in high quality.
I recommend using Fast or Ookla on the built-in browser of your Firestick.
If you aren’t getting the required speed, let me share some tips on how you can improve it.
Set up a wired connection for your Firestick
- Get an Amazon Firestick ethernet adapter.
- Connect it to the Firestick through the USB-C port.
- Attach your ethernet cable to the back of the adapter.
- Attach one end to the router.
- Wait for Firestick to automatically detect a new connection.
Note: Unfortunately, there’s no Firestick that comes with a built-in ethernet port. You’re going to have to buy one from Amazon.
Of course, you can still stick to a wireless connection for your Firestick. Here are some ways to improve your Wi-Fi connectivity:
- Disconnect other devices from the network.
- Bring Fire Stick as close to Wi-Fi as possible.
- Turn off your VPN if it’s installed on your router.
- Get a Wi-Fi repeater if it’s impossible to bring the router closer.
- Clear out any physical obstructions between router and device.
However, these tips aren’t guaranteed to make your connection faster. If it still doesn’t work, try to power cycle your router with this method below:
Reset your router
- Turn off your router.
- Unplug it from the power source.
- Press and hold the power button for 15-30 seconds.
- Turn on the router again.
#5: Update Netflix
The streaming giant releases updates to help fix bug issues and add new features.
Your Firestick will automatically update the app if you’re connected to the internet.
Additionally, there should enough space on your device as well.
Moreover, it can also stay suspended until you do it manually.
Here’s how you can update the Netflix app on your Firestick.
- Launch Settings.
- Select Notifications.
- Check if there’s a pending update for Netflix.
- Select Update.
Reminder: While updating, do not turn off your Firestick. Moreover, avoid network disconnections as well. If the update gets stopped mid-way, you could have more problems with your Netflix app.
Just in case you’ve accidentally turned off auto-updates in the past, make sure to turn the feature back on again.
Here’s how:
- Head to home menu.
- Scroll to Settings.
- Select Applications.
- Select Appstore.
- Select Automatic Updates.
- Toggle it to “on.”
#6: Update your Firestick
Like the app itself, it’s important to update your Firestick too.
There might be an update that involves a fix to your current problems with your apps.
Firmware updates can fail to automatically download too.
If they do, do this instead:
- Head to main menu.
- Select Settings.
- Select Device.
- Select About.
- Select Check for System Update.
#7: Clear the cache and app data
Do you see those show recommendations that you get on Netflix?
That’s made possible because of cache and app data.
Netflix stores data so that it can deliver a personalized experience the more you browse.
Other than that, it can also help make apps run faster.
While helpful, cache and app data can fill up your Firestick’s storage over time.
Moreover, the data could get corrupted. This will result in crashes and other issues for your Netflix app.
Note: Some people tend to confuse these 2. Cache is temporary data that’s used to make apps run faster. It’s also used to establish your preferences and recommendations. App data on the other hand, is the content of the software. In the case of Netflix, these are updates.
It’s best to clear cache first as this is what often causes app problems.
Luckily, you can sort things out by clearing these two.
How to clear cache or data
- Head to Settings.
- Select Applications.
- Select Manage Installed Applications.
- Select Netflix.
- Select Clear Cache or Clear Data.
Note: Clearing the data for Netflix will restore your app to its factory settings. It will also log you out of your account. So make sure you have your username and password ready after doing this.
#8: Reset Firestick to factory settings
A factory reset will clear all data from your device.
That means it can also clear out any corrupted files that make your apps malfunction.
This can clear out any bug that’s on your Firestick too.
To do this, you should…
- Head to the home screen.
- Head to Settings.
- Scroll down and select Device or System.
- Select Reset to Factory Defaults.
Tip: Don’t forget to list down all of your apps, and your account details and passwords. This makes it easier to restore all of your Firestick settings later on.
#9: Contact support
None of these fixes are working for you?
If so, then I recommend calling the Netflix or Firestick support team.
Read also: (9 Fixes) Netflix Not Working On Smart TV