A few days ago, we asked why is Netflix not working on Xfinity? So, we tried it out on our equipment to find the most effective fixes, so you don’t have to.
We’re going to share them here, right now!
It turns out you can get the Netflix app directly on your Xfinity box. This feature comes in handy if you don’t have a compatible smart TV that can run Netflix.
It’s convenient to watch your favorite movies and TV shows on a much larger screen.
Enough with the stories, and let’s dive into the solutions.
To fix your Netflix not working on your Xfinity box, the first thing you can do is reset the app on your box. Press the “A” button and select Reset Netflix. Clearing the Netflix app cache also helps.
You can change the Privacy settings on your Xfinity box and select Clear Cookies and Local Storage Data.
Causes of Netflix Not Working on Xfinity
Now that you have a good idea of what to expect when your Netflix stops working on your Xfinity box let’s have a look at the possible causes of the error.
There are a few culprits that can cause this, particularly incompatible software and cache storage issues.
Here are the likely sources of this issue, so you’ll have an easier time troubleshooting it:
1. Poor Connectivity
A bad internet connection can cause your Netflix to stop working on your Xfinity box.
It will stop working on just about any device, so make sure that there are no service outages or internet problems on your end.
2. Corrupted Files
App files are also prone to issues. Temporary files in the memory or cache are some of the primary culprits here, as it doesn’t take much to change them and cause problems.
3. Outdated Software
Even though you will be using your box to stream Netflix, your TV’s software can also cause this error.
4. Temporary Software Issues
There are a lot of problems that can arise when we talk about software. These are usually temporary, and you’ll be able to fix them quickly.
Now that you know the likely causes of your Netflix issue on your Xfinity box let’s not proceed to the full fix guide so you can enjoy your favorite content on the big screen!
Steps to Fix Xfinity Netflix Not Working
Before we go ahead and work on the fixes, we recommend taking care of the temporary causes of this issue.
The quickest way to do that would be to relaunch the Netflix app on your Xfinity box. You can also restart your box to see if it resolves the error.
In case it doesn’t, don’t worry. There are a lot more solutions that we can work on:
Solution #1: Power Cycle Your Xfinity Devices
If a simple restart of your Xfinity box does not do the trick, it’s time to do a more advanced version.
Your aim here is to discharge your box fully together with its temporary storage, getting rid of bugs. This step also fixes any performance issue that your box is experiencing.
Here’s how to power cycle your Xfinity box:
- Turn off your Xfinity box.
- Pull the plug from the power outlet.
- Wait for 2 to 5 minutes.
- Plug your Xfinity box in.
- Turn it on and check if Netflix is working.
Tip: If you have an Xfinity internet subscription, now is also the time to do the same steps to your modems and routers to refresh your connection.
Solution #2: Force Stop the Netflix App on Your Xfinity Box
Sometimes, a simple relaunch of your Netflix app won’t fix the issue. An alternative step that you can do is to force stop your app.
This ensures that your app is not running in the background, and whenever you launch it, you’re opening a new instance.
Here’s how to force close the Netflix app:
- Go to the Netflix home screen.
- Press the Back or Last button on your remote.
- Select Exit.
- Choose Yes to confirm.
Note: You’ll know that you have closed the app since it will take a bit longer to load it up again.
Solution #3: Perform a System Refresh
At this point, if you’re still asking why is Netflix not working on Xfinity, you’ll have to do a system refresh.
It’s a more thorough restart that fixes many possible errors, including app problems. The process refreshes your connection to the Xfinity servers allowing your box to reconnect fresh.
Here’s how to perform a system refresh on your Xfinity box:
- Press the “A” button on your remote.
- Wait for the menu to appear on your screen.
- Navigate to System Refresh.
- Select it to start the process.
Note: The process can take about 10 minutes, so be patient.
Solution #4: Clear the Netflix App Cache
Whenever you open the Netflix app, it collects and stores additional data that can help with its operation.
For the most part, this is a harmless process and won’t affect how your apps work. It can improve loading times, so you’ll enjoy your favorite content quickly.
This problem is that the cache takes up space on your device’s storage. Your storage can fill up quickly, slowing things down and stopping the app from launching.
If you’re experiencing sluggishness and eventual failure to work, you want to remove the cache.
Here’s how to clear your Netflix app cache on your Xfinity box:
- Go to your Xfinity’s settings menu.
- Navigate to Privacy, then select it.
- Look for the Clear Cookies and Local Storage Data option.
- Select it using your remote and press OK.
Note: Restart your Xfinity box after clearing the app cache for best results.
Solution #5: Reset Your Xfinity Box
Finally, if none of these steps resolve the issue, you’ll want to consider resetting your Xfinity box.
You can view this as a last resort since it will revert your box to its original settings. Performing this step will delete all of your information, apps, and files.
Before resetting your Xfinity box, make sure that you have access to your current settings so you can reconfigure your device.
Here’s how to reset your Xfinity box:
- Press the Power and Menu button on your remote.
- The User Settings menu will appear on the screen.
- Press the Up and Down directional buttons on your remote.
- Choose the Restore Defaults option.
- Press OK on your remote to start the process.
Tip: You can also reset your device using your Xfinity account.
Why is Netflix not working on Xfinity? If you’re still asking this question, there is something seriously wrong with your equipment.
You’ll want to contact Xfinity customer support so they’ll be able to figure out if your box needs repair or replacement.
Read Next: Can I Keep Xfinity Mobile If I Move?
Bottom Line
Now that you know why is Netflix not working on Xfinity and the steps to fix it, you’ll be able to watch your favorite movies and shows in no time.
Follow these troubleshooting steps, and you’ll be able to enjoy using Netflix straight from your cable box.
You don’t need a smart TV or a phone mirroring software to do it.
Finn Wheatley holds a Master’s Degree in Computer Science from UCL, London. He helped small data science consultancy firms, helping large corporations to grow their data capabilities, deploy advanced machine learning-based analytics and troubleshoot tech-related issues. Check out more about him here.