Experiencing issues with Netflix not working in Chrome can be frustrating, especially when you’re ready to binge-watch your favorite series. Common problems include DRM and Widevine issues, a black screen, or error codes like M7111. This guide will help you troubleshoot and fix these problems on various platforms such as Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Quick Fixes to Try First
- Restart Chrome and your computer.
- Update Chrome to the latest version.
- Try an Incognito window (Ctrl+Shift+N or Command+Shift+N).
- Disable any VPN or proxy services temporarily.
How to Fix Netflix DRM and Widevine Issues in Chrome
Netflix relies on DRM technology through the Widevine Content Decryption Module. If this module is outdated or not functioning, you may encounter issues.
- Open Chrome and type
chrome://componentsin the address bar, then press Enter. - Scroll down to find Widevine Content Decryption Module.
- Click Check for update.
- Relaunch Chrome and try Netflix again.
Clearing Netflix Cookies in Chrome
Netflix’s own fix for many browser errors is to clear its cookie. Go to netflix.com/clearcookies. This signs you out, so select Sign In, enter your email and password, and try again.
To delete Netflix’s data in Chrome instead:
- At the top right, select More > Settings.
- Select Privacy and security > Third-party cookies.
- Select See all site data and permissions.
- At the top right, search for netflix.
- To the right of the site, select Delete, then confirm.
- Restart Chrome and open Netflix again.
These steps follow Google’s guide to deleting cookies in Chrome.
Toggle Hardware Acceleration in Chrome
Hardware acceleration can sometimes cause playback issues on Netflix.
- Open Chrome settings by typing
chrome://settings/system. - Turn off Use graphics acceleration when available.
- Restart Chrome and test Netflix.
Adjusting Protected Content Settings in Chrome
Ensure that Chrome is set to allow sites to play protected content.
- Go to
chrome://settings/content. - Open Additional content settings, then click Protected content IDs.
- Make sure Sites can use content protection services is selected.
- Restart Chrome and try playing Netflix.
How to Fix Netflix Error Code M7111 in Chrome
M7111 is a family of Netflix errors, and the fix depends on the numbers after it. Netflix’s help center gives these steps for the two most common ones:
- M7111-1101 usually means a network problem. Clear the Netflix cookie at netflix.com/clearcookies, update Chrome, then restart your modem and router: unplug them, wait 30 seconds, plug them back in, and wait a minute before trying again.
- M7111-1331 usually means a browser setting stopped playback. If you open Netflix from an old bookmark, type www.netflix.com instead. Then open
chrome://extensions, turn off your extensions, and turn them back on one by one to find the one causing it. If the message says your account can’t be used on this device, your Netflix plan only allows phones and tablets.
For any other code, search the code on the Netflix help center.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Netflix showing a black screen on Chrome?
This can be due to outdated components, corrupted cookies, or hardware acceleration issues. Try updating Widevine, clearing Netflix cookies, or disabling hardware acceleration.
What is the error code M7111 on Netflix?
It is a group of Netflix playback errors. M7111-1101 usually points to a network problem, and M7111-1331 to a browser setting such as an old bookmark or an extension. See the section above for Netflix’s steps.
How do I update Widevine Content Decryption Module?
Open the components page shown above, find Widevine Content Decryption Module, and click Check for update.
Can I watch Netflix on Chrome without hardware acceleration?
Yes. Netflix still plays with it off, and turning it off can fix some playback problems. Turn it back on if the fix does not help.
What should I do if Netflix is buffering on Chrome?
Ensure your internet connection is stable, clear cache and cookies, and consider reducing video quality settings.