Netflix Not Working on Sony Smart TV: How to Fix

Getting some popcorn and soda or a beer and some pizza only to find out that Netflix won’t play on your smart TV can be a real bummer. Your friends get upset; you also get embarrassed because you’ve ruined the moment.

If you’re currently experiencing this problem, you know quite well the range of emotions it can cause.

Talking about the cause, why does this even happen at all? We will focus on how a Sony smart TV user could fix this issue. But for starters, we’ll talk about what could be responsible for the problem.

netflix not working on sony smart tv

Netflix Not Working on Sony Smart TV: Likely Causes

There are a lot of reasons that can explain why Netflix won’t work on your Sony smart TV. One of them has to do with your internet connection. If you have a weak signal, you may be unable to use the app on your TV.

You may also need to check your router. Sometimes, your router may not be working properly even when your internet connection is strong. A good signal and a bad router will make it impossible to use Netflix on your smart TV.

What about your settings? You or some other person may knowingly or unknowingly have created a custom setting that is preventing you from using your Netflix account. Yes, it is possible. But let’s not forget your modem.

Every now and then, even electronic devices that are in good condition tend to freeze up and stop functioning. In that case, everything else is great and only your WiFi or modem is acting up. Since we’re on the subject of freezing, let’s just put this out there: Your Sony smart TV can also freeze. It is just like any other smart gadget and can have the same issue they have.

There’s also the fact that something may be wrong with your Netflix app. It’s a piece of software and may have a glitch or some downtime. The app may even need an update. A few more things to consider: Did you sign in to your account the correct way? Have you activated your account on your smart TV? All of these are possible reasons.

Now, to take us to the most important question: What do you do when Netflix is not working on your Sony smart TV?

Netflix Not Working on Sony Smart TV: How to Fix The Problem

There are different things you can do. It all depends on what is causing the issue. For instance, if you have reason to suspect it is an internet connection problem, you easily switch to a better service provider.

If you truly want to Netflix and chill, you must have a great internet service provider. This is the foundation of it all. There’s no escaping this. There’s also the option of trying to get better signals in your home.

Some people have come to learn that when they place their modem in certain parts of their home, they get stronger signals. It’s up to you to explore your apartment and find the best place to plant your modem.

Pro tip: Put your modem as high up in the air as possible. Place it near a window and away from cell phones and microwave ovens.

On the other hand, if your router is the culprit, take it out of the picture. Connect directly to your smart TV. It sometimes captures wireless signals better than routers. It is better to use no router than use a faulty one. This is why this simple change can correct the error.

Talking about error, has it occurred to you that one little mistake could be the reason you are unable to log into your Netflix account? We’ve talked about it earlier. It has to do with your settings.

You or someone else may have created a custom setting that has disabled your Netflix app. Just go back to your internet service provider’s default settings and you’re back in the game. You can consult your service provider for instructions.

It may be that you connected to the internet through a Virtual Private Network (VPN). You will need to disable it. Do a direct connection to the internet instead.

We all get tired after a while. Your modem and smart TV are no exception. Just as we need to shut down for a while and have some sleep, they also need to be restarted. Don’t you just feel energized and ready for another day of work after a good night’s sleep? It is much the same with your electronic devices.

Restarting your modem and your smart TV can make all the difference. This is why you should give it a try. But there’s more you can also try.

If you haven’t updated the Netflix app in a while, go to the Google Play store, click on the app and check for updates. Something as simple as a failure to update the app can be the reason the app isn’t working on your device.

If this fails to solve the problem, you may want to reset the Netflix app. Here’s how to do it: Select “more info” or “more details” from the error result showing on your Netflix account. Alternatively, you can find your way to the settings icon from the Netflix home screen.

You can also press the arrow keys on your remote control in the following order: Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, Up, Up, Up, Up.

Any of those three options will take you to the sign-out screen. At that point, you will need to select “Reset” or “Sign out” or “Deactivate”. That’s it. Your account is reset and you can log in with your details.

Last but not the least, you may have signed into your Netflix account the wrong way. To correct this, go to your account and select the “Sign in from web” option. Then go to netflix.com/tv8 on your mobile device. A code will pop up on your smart TV, enter that code on your mobile device. You will be asked to enter your Netflix email and password, when you do so you should be able to start enjoying Netflix on your Sony smart TV.