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Netflix Screen Goes Black: How To Fix A Black Screen Showing On Netflix

Netflix Screen Goes Black: How To Fix A Black Screen Showing On Netflix

Not being able to watch your favorite Netflix TV show because your screen is showing black can be a frustrating occurrence.

Your Netflix screen may be black due to technical bugs in the system files and servers and corrupted installation files. Simply logging out and logging back in can sometimes solve the issue, however, sometimes there are more steps involved.

Because Netflix is run through your web browser, there is the possibility that connectivity issues may arise as well as problems with the device you are using.

If your Netflix screen goes black when you launch the app or a movie, you want to be able to know what to do to fix it as soon as possible, which is why we have created this simple easy guide to assist you.

Why does my Netflix look Black?

The first thing to do if you are experiencing a Black Netflix screen is to check if the Netflix servers are experiencing any outages, which you can check by visiting here.

If you are accessing Netflix through Windows, your app may be outdated and needs to be updated.

If you have only just downloaded the Netflix app and you are experiencing a black screen, this could be due to the installation files being corrupted. In this instance, you will need to try uninstalling and reinstalling the app.

If your bandwidth speed is less than 1.5Mbps, this will interfere with Netflix running smoothly and may cause it to go black. Try disconnecting and reconnecting your wifi device.

If you are still experiencing a Black screen on Netflix, carry on reading.

Why is Netflix playing Sound but no picture?

If you have opened up Netflix and you are experiencing sound with a Black screen, this could be because there is an issue with the device you are watching Netflix on.

Your device may have files specifically for Netflix that are corrupted.

How do I fix Netflix playing sound with no picture?

netflix hq
Photo by Venti Views on Unsplash

We know how important Netflix is for you, so we have outlined 4 easy fixes for you to follow to assist you in getting your Netflix working.

Fix 1. Turn off your VPN

Because VPNs are good for security while browsing the internet, they can sometimes block Netflix from working if you are on the web.

Windows

Step 1. In your search tab, go to Settings and select ‘Network & Internet’

Step 2. Choose ‘VPN’

Step 3. Disable the VPN

MacOs

Step 1. Find ‘System Preferences’ and select ‘Network’

Step 2. Choose ‘VPN’ on the left-hand side

Step 3. Select ‘Disconnect’

Your VPN is now off and you can sign in to Netflix.

Fix 2. Reset your browsing history

When browsing the internet, data is stored which decreases the time it takes for a site to load. This data gets collected over a period of time, resulting in issues on your PC.

Windows

Step 1. On your internet search page, select the 3 dots in the top right-hand corner

Step 2. Choose ‘Settings’

Step 3. Select ‘Privacy & Settings’ and then choose ‘Clear Browsing Data’

Step 4. Change the Time Range to ‘All Time’

Step 5. Make sure the boxes for  ‘Cookies and other site data’ and ‘Cached images and files’ are selected

Step 6.  Click on ‘Clear Data’

If you are operating Netflix on a Mac, you can click here to get the steps on clearing your browser history

You have now cleared your browsing history and can go back on Netflix to see if the Black screen has gone.

Fix 3. Restart your Network Connection

Your internet connection may have had a disruption and caused your smart TV to lose connection.

Step 1. Turn your TV off and remove it from its plug point.

Step 2. Unplug your Wifi from its power source. Wait around 30 seconds

Step 3. Plug your Wifi back in and wait until the active lights are back on

Step 4. Turn your TV on

Note, ensure your TV and Wifi are turned off together for at least 30 seconds.

You can now open Netflix.

Fix 4. Check Netflix has appropriate permissions

If you are on Windows and  Netflix does not have the correct permissions, it will not be able to run properly.

Step 1. Select the Windows button and choose ‘settings’

Step 2. Click on ‘Apps’

Step 3. Find the Netflix app, click on it and choose ‘Advanced Options’

Step 4. Choose ‘Reset’ 

Step 5. In the advanced options tab, check to see if the permissions are on

Checking the permissions for Netflix is now complete.

Why is my Netflix screen Black on my laptop?

netflix on ipad
Photo by CardMapr on Unsplash

Your Netflix screen may be Black on your laptop due to the following reasons;

  • The antivirus on your computer is conflicting with Netflix
  • The Adware on your PC needs to be disabled
  • You need to update your Windows

Conclusion

Netflix is one of the most sought-after media apps used across the globe, so it is no surprise that it will experience a few glitches here and there.

We have outlined that a black screen on Netflix could be due to issues related to your device as well as errors with the Netflix app installed.

We hope that this guide has covered all aspects to aid you in fixing the Black screen on your Netflix and that you will be able to carry on binging your favorite Netflix series without any disruption.

Author

  • Michael Stokes

    Over 10 years of experience working as a technical support engineer. Highly skilled in fixing any technical issue, including app configuration and account setup, gaming errors, television problems, and any other electronics-related issue. You can find out more about him at helpfixthat.com/author/spark-wit/

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