Is there a Netflix app for PC? How to download and stream on Windows
💡 Fast fix
- Yes, there’s an app. You can download the Netflix® app from the Microsoft Store™ on Windows 10 and 11.
- No more downloads. Offline viewing was removed from the PC app in 2024.
- Browser playback? Only Microsoft Edge supports full 4K streaming.
Watching Netflix® on your laptop sounds easy—until you’re juggling browser tabs, buffering issues, or your streaming quality tanks. If you’re wondering, “Isn’t there just an app for this?”—good news: there is. Whether you’re using Windows® 10 or 11, you can install the Netflix app and stream straight from your desktop, no browser required.
At Asurion, we make tech less frustrating and more useful. Whether you’re choosing the best streaming service, connecting Chromecast™ to Wi-Fi, adjusting your streaming quality, or setting up a new laptop, we’ve got you. Here’s how to get Netflix working better on your PC.
Check if Netflix is available for Windows
You can download the Netflix app for PC through the Microsoft Store for Windows 10 and Windows 11. The app offers a cleaner, more direct way to access your Netflix account without needing to open a browser.
Compared to streaming in a browser, the app offers a more consistent playback experience. If you stream in a browser other than Microsoft Edge™ on Windows, your video quality will be limited to 720p. Browsers like Chrome® and Firefox® don’t support Netflix 4K streaming.
The Netflix Windows 11 app is a web-based app that opens in Microsoft Edge and supports 4K streaming if your plan, computer, and internet speed allow. However, you won’t get Netflix offline viewing even with the app. In 2024, the streaming giant removed the download (offline viewing) feature in the Windows app when it rolled out the redesigned Microsoft Edge-based version.
Download the Netflix app from the Microsoft Store
The Netflix app download for PC is straightforward. Open the Microsoft Store on your Windows 10 or Windows 11 device and search for Netflix. Select the official app from the results, then click Install to download. Once installed, you can launch Netflix directly from the Start menu or pin it to your taskbar for quick access.
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Stream or download shows for offline viewing
Once you’ve completed the Netflix app for PC download, starting playback is simple. Open the app and sign in to your account. Then select your favorite shows or movies, and the video will stream directly to your device with a smooth experience.
Netflix offline viewing
The ability to download videos and watch them offline is crucial for many streaming services, as it’s not always possible to stream your favorite movies and shows always. You might want to download a couple of episodes or movies to your device if you want to watch something while traveling without a connection or when your internet is down.
But offline viewing is no longer supported on the new Netflix app for Windows. While downloads are still available on Android®, iPhone®, and iPad®, you’ll need an active internet connection to watch content on a Windows device.
If you still need offline access on a PC, you’ll need temporary workarounds, such as manually installing an older version, 6.99.50 or earlier, which is not available in the official Microsoft Store. This approach can be risky as you must manually find and install the specific app package from alternative, potentially less secure sources. Plus, you’d need to take additional steps, such as disabling Microsoft Store auto-updates and using Windows Terminal, to complete the installation.
On other laptops like a Chromebook™, you can download the Android® Netflix app, which still supports offline viewing.
Troubleshoot common app issues
If the Netflix app for PC isn't working as expected, this quick streaming guide will help you troubleshoot common issues.
Restart your PC
A quick restart may clear temporary glitches that affect streaming or cause the app to freeze. Select Start > Power > Restart. Then, open the Netflix app again to see if the issue is resolved.
Update the app and Windows
A Netflix app update can fix issues such as freezing or difficulty loading your show. To update the app, go to the Microsoft Store > Library > Netflix. Select Update if it’s available. If your app is up-to-date but still acting up, updating Windows might fix compatibility or Netflix playback issues. Go to Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates.
Reset Microsoft Store
If your PC can’t download or update the Netflix app, resetting the Microsoft Store cache may help. Search for wsreset.exe in the Start menu and run it to refresh the Microsoft Store.
Reinstall the Netflix app
If issues continue, uninstalling and reinstalling the Netflix app may resolve corrupted files. Uninstall your current Netflix app for PC and download the latest version from the Microsoft Store. Then check if the reinstallation resolves the problem.
FAQ
Why can't I download shows on the Netflix Windows app? Offline downloads were removed in the 2024 update to the Netflix PC app. You’ll need an active internet connection to stream.
Can I watch Netflix in 4K on my computer? Yes, but only through the Netflix app or Microsoft Edge browser—and only if your plan, hardware, and internet support it.
Is the Netflix app for Windows better than using a browser? It can be. The app streamlines the interface and offers better video quality—especially over browsers like Chrome or Firefox, which cap playback at 720p.
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