Netflix error codes and buffering issues are frustrating, especially when you have settled in for a film. The good news is that most Netflix problems are not actual outages — they are local issues you can fix in a few minutes.
Is Netflix down or is it your connection?
Netflix is one of the most reliable streaming platforms in the world. True global outages are rare — typically fewer than two or three per year — and they are usually short-lived.
Before assuming Netflix is down, check it on WebsiteDown. If our external probe shows Netflix is reachable, the problem is almost certainly between you and Netflix, not on Netflix's end.
The most common local causes of Netflix problems: slow internet speed (Netflix requires 5 Mbps for HD, 25 Mbps for 4K), a congested home WiFi network, a router that needs restarting, or a device that needs its Netflix app reinstalled.
Common Netflix error codes explained
Netflix uses error codes that tell you exactly what is wrong.
Error UI-800-3 means the data stored on your device needs to be refreshed. Fix: sign out of Netflix on that device, clear the app data, and sign back in.
Error NW-2-5 is a network connectivity error. Fix: check your internet connection and restart your router.
Error tvq-pm-100 is similar to NW-2-5 — a network issue. Try restarting the Netflix app and your home network.
Error M7111-5059 appears in browsers when a VPN or proxy is detected. Fix: disable your VPN.
Black screen with audio usually means a HDCP (copy protection) issue between your device and TV. Try a different HDMI cable or port.
Netflix buffering constantly
Constant buffering is almost always a bandwidth problem, not a Netflix outage. Netflix adapts to your available bandwidth, but it needs at minimum 3 Mbps for standard definition and 25 Mbps for 4K.
Test your actual speed at websitedown.com/speed-test. If your measured speed is below what your plan promises, the issue is with your ISP or home network. Try connecting your device directly to the router via ethernet, which eliminates WiFi as a variable.
When Netflix is actually down
When Netflix does have a genuine outage, it is usually visible as a sudden spike in community reports across multiple countries simultaneously. You can see this on WebsiteDown's Netflix status page.
Netflix's own help centre at help.netflix.com/en/is-netflix-down shows their current service status. Most Netflix outages are resolved within one to two hours.