In the whole world, Netflix is recognized as the most prominent streaming service. On this platform, you can surely enjoy a range of movies and TV shows. But it is a harsh truth that it is software just like other software available. It is immune to so many errors. One of the biggest issues is that Windows 10 users have to encounter Netflix Error N8201 on Windows 10.
Typically, this error appears while you are streaming content through a browser. It is often related to Silverlight, an obsolete Microsoft technology Netflix. Are you also dealing with this issue? If so, this guide will assist you in understanding its causes and offer you the most effective solutions to fix it.
Let’s explore this post thoroughly…….
What Is Netflix Error N8201?
Usually, Netflix Error Code N8201 is associated with browser-based streaming on Windows 10. This error often appears when there is an issue with the “Microsoft Silverlight plugin.” It is also true that obsolete browser settings or issues with the system configurations may also affect Netflix playback.
Symptoms of Netflix Error N8201:
- A black screen when you are trying to play a video
- An error message saying, “Whoops, something went wrong… Netflix Error N8201”
- Continuous buffering or lagging
- Playback not initiated in spite of a stable internet connection
Common Causes of Netflix Error N8201
So many factors are responsible for the occurrence of error N8201 on Windows 10. Let’s see what they are –-
— Outdated or Corrupted Silverlight Plugin
Netflix utilized Silverlight for streaming older browsers. A malfunctioning or an obsolete plugin can cause this error.
— Corrupt Browser Cache and Cookies
Due to the accumulated cache and cookies, there may be interference with the smooth functioning of Netflix.
— Network Configuration Issues
Inappropriate DNS settings or unstable network connections can trigger the Netflix error N8201.
— Browser Compatibility Issues
A few outdated browsers may no longer support Netflix properly.
— Firewall or Antivirus Interference
Due to the security software, Netflix can be blocked from connecting to its servers.
How to Fix Netflix Error N8201 on Windows 10
1. Restart Your Computer and Internet Connection
Before diving into advanced troubleshooting, start with basic fixes:
- In the first step, restart your PC and reopen Netflix.
- Now, restart your modem/router so that you can refresh your internet connection.
- Thereafter, try a different internet connection e.g., a mobile hotspot. It will be helpful to you to check if the issue still persists.
2. Update or Uninstall Microsoft Silverlight
No doubt that Silverlight is the root cause of this error. But, you can have a sigh of relief because by updating or reinstalling it, you can troubleshoot it.
Here are all the steps to update Silverlight:
- First of all, press Windows + R, type appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter.
- Now, locate Microsoft Silverlight in the list.
- After that, right-click and choose Uninstall.
- Thereafter, visit Microsoft’s official website so that you can download and install the latest version.
- Later on, restart your computer and try to stream Netflix again.
3. Clear Browser Cache and Cookies
To escape from the disruption in the Netflix streaming, you have to clear the corrupt browser. This way, you can surely eliminate the issue –
— For Google Chrome:
- Firstly, open Chrome and press Ctrl + Shift + Delete.
- Now, choose All Time in the time range.
- In the next step, check Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files.
- Later on, click Clear data.
- Finally, restart Chrome and try Netflix again.
— For Microsoft Edge:
- At the beginning of the process, open Edge and press Ctrl + Shift + Delete.
- Now, select Cookies and site permissions.
- In this step, click Manage and delete cookies and site data.
- Later on, remove Netflix-related cookies.
- In the last step, restart Edge and cross-check if Netflix works.
4. Switch to a Different Browser
In case, Netflix Error N8201 still persists, you can try using a different browser. For enjoying the best Netflix experience, the browsers that are highly recommended namely – Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
So, you need to ensure that the browser is updated to the latest version. You have to do it before trying to stream Netflix again.
5. Adjust DNS Settings
If you want to connect Netflix to the Wi-Fi perfectly, you have to adjust DNS settings. Let’s see how to do so –
Steps to change DNS settings:
- Firstly, press Windows + R, type ncpa.cpl, and hit Enter.
- Now, right-click your active network and choose Properties.
- After that, click Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and choose Properties.
- Thereafter, choose Use the following DNS server addresses and enter:
- Preferred: 8.8.8.8
- Alternate: 8.8.4.4 (Google DNS)
- Finally, click OK, and restart your computer. Then, you have to check Netflix.
6. Disable VPN or Proxy Services
To escape any kind of blockage or disconnectivity, you have to disable a VPN or proxy.
— To disable a VPN, you need to do the following:
- In the first step, open Settings (Windows + I) > Network & Internet.
- In this step, click VPN on the left panel.
- Now, disable any active VPN connections.
- After that, restart your computer and test Netflix again.
7. Temporarily Disable Antivirus and Firewall
To protect your device from overly aggressive security software, you are required to disable the firewall. Let’s see how you can do it –
- Initially, press Windows + R, type firewall.cpl, and hit Enter.
- After that, click Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off.
- Thereafter, select Turn off Windows Defender Firewall (both private and public networks).
- Finally, click OK, then test Netflix.
If it seems that disabling the firewall does not fire, you can add Netflix to the firewall’s exception list rather than leaving it off.
8. Check Windows Updates
You need to verify the obsolete Windows version that is responsible for the conflicts with Netflix. Here are a few key steps to update Windows 10:
- In the first step, you need to press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Now, click Update & Security.
- Later on, select Check for updates and install any available updates.
- Last but not least, restart your PC and try to stream Netflix.
Conclusion
To be precise, Netflix Error N8201 on Windows 10 is certainly fixable. This way, you can resolve the issue and enjoy uninterrupted streaming. With the help of the right approach, you will surely be back to watching your favourite shows in no time.
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