There’s nothing more frustrating than Netflix not working on TV but works on phone, computer, or any other streaming device. You may be about to watch the latest film or popular series in 4K on your big-screen smart TV when Netflix abruptly stops working.
So, you’re not alone if you’re wondering, “Why is my Netflix not working?” There are several reasons why Netflix stops working on your TV, but fortunately, you can do something about it. In most circumstances, updating the Netflix app for your TV via the settings menu or app store is all that is required.
However, here’s more on why Netflix works on phone but not TV to correctly solve this issue.
The main reasons why Netflix Works on Phone but not on TV
As mentioned, several reasons can be behind Netflix not working on TV but works on phone issue. Some common reasons are:
- Unreliable internet connection
- Outdated Netflix app or TV firmware
- Invalid DNS settings
- Problems with your Netflix account
- Netflix Error Code NW-2-5
- Netflix geo-restrictions
Fix an Unreliable Internet Connection
The minimum speed for best Netflix streaming is 3 Mbps for standard definition (SD) video quality and 5 Mbps for high definition (HD) quality. Streaming in 4K and Ultra HD (UHD) requires a minimum download speed of 25 Mbps.
Streaming Netflix in SD on a big-screen TV isn’t an option, so you’ll need speeds capable of HD streaming. A slow or sporadic internet connection also results in Netflix not working on TV black screen error.
To avoid Netflix not working on TV, ensure your TV has a fast and reliable internet connection. Here are some quick tips to follow:
- For the best signal, position your TV closer to the router if it connects to the internet via Wi-Fi.
- Refresh your internet connection by restarting your Wi-Fi router.
- Switch to an Ethernet cable for a stable connection.
- Check your internet speeds to ensure you get the speeds you’ve paid for. Speedtest.net is an excellent place to start. If not, contact your ISP for a quick resolution.
Check for Netflix Updates and TV Compatibility
An outdated Netflix app or TV firmware could be the root of your Netflix not working on TV but works on phone issue. So, make sure you’re using the latest Netflix app and your TV firmware is up to date. Follow these steps to update Netflix or your TV:
- Go to the app store of your TV, select Netflix, and check whether there’s an updated option. If there is, click update and enjoy the latest Netflix app.
- Go to your TV settings menu under “System” or “Support.” There will be an option to install the latest update. Alternatively, select “Allow Automatic Update” to install updates automatically.
If you have an older smart TV, visit the Netflix website for the complete TV compatibility list.
Change Invalid TV DNS Settings
Incorrect DNS settings disrupt internet connectivity, preventing you from accessing Netflix’s servers. Follow these steps to change the DNS settings on your TV:
- Access your TV’s connection menu.
- Select how your TV connects to the internet.
- Choose “Advanced Wi-Fi Settings.”
- Select “Edit.”
- Uncheck “Set Automatically.”
- Enter a public DNS server address, such as Google’s 8.8.8.8 or 8.8.4.4.
- Apply the changes by restarting your TV.
Reset your Netflix Account on your TV
Resetting your Netflix account can quickly solve Netflix not working on Samsung TV or Netflix not working on LG TV. You can also use this fix to solve the Netflix app keeps crashing on TV issue.
Most smart TVs, however, will not allow you to uninstall the Netflix app; instead, you can reset it by following these steps:
- Launch the Netflix app on your TV
- Click “Sign Out” and restart your TV.
- Log back in and enjoy streaming Netflix.
If you’re experiencing Netflix not working on Samsung TV but works on phone, Windows PC, or tablet, the issue is with the TV software. Here are some quick fixes to try:
- Unplug the Samsung Smart TV from the wall for 30 seconds.
- Plug it back in, turn the TV on, and try streaming Netflix.
- If this doesn’t work, turn off the Samsung Instant On feature, as it can interfere with installed apps.
- If the problem persists, a factory reset of your Samsung TV may be necessary.
Fix Netflix Error Code NW-2-5
The Netflix error code NW-2-5 is prominent on smart TVs and gaming consoles supported by Netflix. This error code prevents Netflix from loading, but fixing it is relatively easy. Here’s the Netflix error code NW-2-5 how to fix it:
- Restart your smart TV and try streaming Netflix.
- Power cycle your router by unplugging it for a minute. Plug the router back in, power your TV after an established connection, and try streaming Netflix.
Circumvent Netflix’s Geo-restrictions
Netflix is accessible in many countries worldwide; however, the content selection varies by region or country. That’s why most streamers use VPNs to stream content unavailable in their region.
However, Netflix has robust anti-VPN systems that detect VPN use and stop you from accessing content. In this case, disabling your VPN quickly solves the Netflix not working on TV but works on phone problem.
However, if you require a VPN to watch Netflix Canada (where you’ll find more movies), stick with a trusted service like NordVPN.
NordVPN has 480+ servers in Canada for unblocking the country’s Netflix version. Best of all, NordVPN delivers the fastest VPN speeds thanks to its proprietary NordLynx protocol.
Using NordVPN, you can safely stream Netflix on your iOS or Android device while using public Wi-Fi without worrying about prying eyes. NordVPN shields your IP address and secures your online traffic through encryption, making it hard for anyone to spy on or hijack your data.
If you’ve tried the above troubleshooting steps and are still receiving the Netflix not working on TV but works on phone problem, try seeking professional help from Netflix support.
Contact Netflix support, but before you do so, ensure you have all the information you need, including the model and version of the software running on your TV.
What to Watch on Netflix
There’s plenty to watch once you fix the Netflix not working on TV but works on phone problem. Here’s a quick look at what to watch on Netflix, remember to use a VPN if the show or movie is unavailable in your region:
FAQs
Why can I get Netflix on my phone but not on my TV?
This typically occurs if you have a Netflix ad-supported plan that is incompatible with a TV. Upgrade to a Netflix paid plan to stream Netflix on your TV.
Why is Netflix not working on my TV anymore?
Netflix will no longer work on your TV if there’s an internet outage in your home. Check to see if other devices can connect to the internet; if not, restart your router or modem or contact your ISP.
How do I reset Netflix on TV?
You may reset Netflix on TV by logging out, rebooting the TV, and then logging back in. Resetting your TV quickly solves Netflix not working on TV but works on phone streaming issues.
Wrap Up
Use the information in this guide to fix the Netflix not working on TV but works on phone.
Netflix is a popular streaming service, but like all others, it occasionally fails. However, my tips will get you back to streaming your favorite shows and movies on your big-screen TV. Keep in mind that a VPN subscription is required if you want to stream over an unsecured public Wi-Fi network or access a different Netflix library.
In that case, subscribe to our recommended VPN, NordVPN, and enjoy the best speeds, privacy, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
