Netflix Won’t Load? Here’s How to Resolve It Quickly

When attempting to stream or browse Netflix, users might encounter the red loading icon, preventing access to the homepage and video content. This issue indicates a failure in establishing a connection between the Netflix webpage or application and its servers. The problem typically arises due to glitches and compatibility issues that could interfere with the normal functionality of the application or webpage. 

Additional factors contributing to this issue could include corrupt app data, connectivity issues, expired user sessions, and VPN usage.

Quick Note: We recommend performing a quick device reboot, as this is helpful in sorting out temporary glitches. Additionally, connecting to a different network temporarily to access Netflix, then switching back to the primary network, could also serve as a viable solution.

1. Check Internet Connectivity and Server Status

A stable internet connection is required for Netflix to function properly. Internet disconnection and slow speeds can prevent Netflix from connecting to its servers. Server outages or maintenance schedules could also prevent Netflix from loading properly. Although downtimes are typically brief, verifying that the servers are up and running is necessary.

1. Open your browser and navigate to the speed test webpage, then click on the GO button to begin a bandwidth test.  
   
2. If your internet connection is not functioning properly, consider restarting your router. Additionally, if you are using a Wi-Fi connection, moving your device closer to your router can improve connectivity and stability. If the issue persists, try resetting the router or contacting your Internet service provider.
3. To check whether the Netflix servers are up and running without interruption, navigate to Netflix’s Down Detector webpage.
   
4. For prior information about server maintenance and outages, you can also check Netflix’s official server status webpage and social media pages. 

2. Disable VPN

Netflix blocks users from accessing the homepage or content when they are using a VPN, as it offers region-specific content. If a user is already on the homepage or streaming and connects to a VPN afterward, it could trigger the loading issue. This can also occur if the VPN has the auto-connect feature enabled and starts when the device boots, unbeknownst to the user.

1. Open the VPN application and click on the Pause button to disconnect.
   
2. After that, click on the Settings icon and select Connection.
   
3. In Connection, locate Auto-Connect, click on it, and uncheck the ‘On all networks’ option.
   
4. Lastly, if disconnecting the VPN from one server doesn’t solve the issue, reconnecting to another server might work.

3. Update Netflix Application 

Updating the application is essential, as older versions are more prone to glitches, even if the user’s internet and servers are functioning properly. Additionally, Windows should also be updated; this ensures that the latest app updates are compatible with the operating system, avoiding performance and compatibility problems.

1. Open the Start menu and click on the Settings icon.
   
2. In Settings, select Update and Security.
   
3. In the Windows update section, click on the Check for updates button to download and install the latest Windows updates.
   
4. To update the Netflix app, open the Start menu, search for Microsoft Store, and click it.
   
5. Navigate to the Downloads section and click on the Get Updates button to download and install the latest app updates.
   

4. Reset Netflix Application

Misconfigured app settings and corrupt app data could prevent the application from loading. Resetting the Netflix application will restore it to its default settings and clear its app data. This could resolve glitches and issues causing performance instability.

Note: Resetting Netflix will result in account sign-out, so you will need to log in again.

1. Open the Start menu and click on the Settings icon.
   
2. In settings, look for Apps and select it.
   
3. In the Apps & Features section, scroll down and click on Netflix and select Advanced options.
   
4. In advanced options, click the Reset button and confirm the action by clicking the reset button again in the popup menu.
5. Lastly, launch the Netflix application and re-enter your login credentials. 

5. Reinstall Netflix Application

If resetting or updating doesn’t solve this issue, reinstalling the Netflix application could work as a fix. Reinstalling the application will restore any corrupt or missing files, which could resolve any compatibility problems.

1. Open the Start menu, search for Apps and Features, and select it.
   
2. In Apps and Features, locate Netflix and click on it, then select Uninstall.
   
3. Next, click on the Start menu, then search for Microsoft Store and open it.
   
4. Search for Netflix by typing it in the search box, and select it.
   
5. Lastly, click on the Install button to download Netflix on your device.
   

6. Clear Cookies on Browser

Cookies store information related to log-in details and user session data. If the cookies become outdated or corrupt, they might affect webpage functionality and prevent Netflix from loading. Clearing cookies allows the browser to access new account data. Additionally, when the user logs in to their account, a fresh connection is established between the server and browser. 

Note: Clearing cookies will result in an account logout, so you’ll need to log in again.

1. Open your browser and click on the Vertical Ellipsis icon, then select Settings.
   
2. In Settings, click on Privacy and Security, then select Third-party cookies.
   
3. Next, select See all site data and permissions.
   
4. After that, search for Netflix by typing it in the search bar, then click on the Bin icon in front to delete cookies.