The internet’s not flawless anywhere in the world. Every service provider promises formula1 speeds in streaming, but we’re stuck buffering one video to fruition. The problem can be a lot of things external, but we can make a personal effort to tackle this.
For all Netflix streamers in Canada, you’ve come to the right place. This article will be your DIY guide to improving your streaming experience by speeding up the buffering. It is a fact that even VPNs drain your speed, which is why we’ll also be selecting a VPN for Netflix that fits best for your needs.
Say bye to the days of long loadings and buffering cause by the time you’re done implementing these remedies, you’ll significantly see a change in viewing. Let’s get started!
Clearing browser settings
“It’s not you, it’s me,” says your internet browser. But to be honest, when was the last time you took out the trash? (The internet trash). Occasionally, you should try to clear your browser settings. These include temporary files, cookies, and whatnot.
Also, we have seen browsers offer an option called ‘Network buffering avoidance’. It is the browser’s fancy way of speeding up your experience without making you do all the work. By enabling it, you should see a change in speed. If not, you should check the Wi-Fi settings on your laptop or device.
Using wired ethernet connection
We may be making our way to a wireless future, but it is still not preferred to be an improvement in anything other than mobility. If you face buffering issues, using a wired ethernet connection can help.
This stabilizes the connection and buffers high-quality videos much easier. This remedy fits best for those who are desktop users and stream content from one single location.
Upgrade the internet bandwidth
“It’s not you, it’s me,” says your wallet this time, because you opt for a cheaper option. Let’s be real! The pandemic increased the amount of dependency on Internet, whether it was a Work-From-Home lifestyle or binge-watching, people needed to upgrade. Perhaps, that’s what you need to do.
By upgrading your Internet bandwidth, you reduce the chances of buffering, and it can improve the surfing experience.
Reduce video quality
This point can be considered a compromise more than a remedy, but some people can live with this. There is still a larger crowd who doesn’t crave 4K quality (some may not even know what 4K is) so, reducing video quality is still an option.
Even 480p is considered a good result, but this solution may become invalid in the coming years. That is because streamers are equipped with higher quality cameras and it will intrigue you, sooner or later, to unlock new levels like 2160p, 4K, 8K, etc. But for now, reducing video quality is an option.
Let it buffer beforehand
This is like the ‘valet parking’ of internet streaming. You wait till it comes to you (the video that is). I remember doing this trick back in the old days. By opening the video earlier, it will buffer quickly while you’re in the kitchen making popcorn or carrying your snacks in the room, or setting the scene.
Just open the video, pick your favorite quality, pause, and let it buffer till completion. When it’s done, stream and enjoy! For this remedy to work, patience is key.
Close other apps and programs
“it’s not you, it’s me,” said the Facebook, Google, or YouTube tab open in the other window. You may have switched from different tabs to your desired Netflix, only your Task Manager knows how much sucking these open tabs do. To improve your streaming experience, it is best to close the other applications and programs.
You have no idea how much of a beast Google Chrome becomes in terms of RAM consumptions. Also, it’s an internet browser, so it might be wise to have a few tabs open as possible. There’s no way you have any use of them during your Netflix streaming time.
Reduce the number of devices connected to the network
“It’s not you, it’s me,” says your little brother playing Fortnite live or your little sister streaming her favorite channel downstairs. This doesn’t mean you should stop them, rather you should see the unnecessary use of the internet on devices and shut it off.
Sometimes your phone, which is innocently minding its own business is hogging up the bandwidth through background apps and features. Just shut off the Wi-Fi from it and watch how your buffering time drops. The same is the case with idly open laptops, gaming consoles, or smart TVs.
Conclusion
By the end of these 7 tips, you should have a faster and better experience in streaming Netflix. We also promised you some VPNs to pick from, for streaming the best of Netflix. Our picks include:
- NordVPN
- ExpressVPN
- Surfshark
We’ve found these three to have a limited effect on the bandwidth and offer great capabilities in streaming. They bypass all geo-restrictions with ease and bring home a comfortable experience of Netflix globally. Now that you have your VPN and these 7 remedial tips, you’re on your way to a hassle-free weekend of binging.
