When you are using Netflix on a smart TV, it will be straightforward to understand how the Internet works to keep the stream up.
However, what is the role of the Internet connection when there is a separate data plan on your smartphone? Does Netflix use data on WIFI?
Netflix only uses data when the WIFI connection stops working. It’s recommended to turn off the data when connected to a WIFI connection to remove any doubt. Netflix will only resort to the data plan to keep the stream running.
Since users are particular about how their data plan is used due to the bandwidth limits, it’s best to prepare for this. Turn off the data to your smartphone as soon as you start using Netflix.
When this occurs, Netflix will stop working when the WIFI connection goes down.
This simplifies the process allowing you to only focus on maintaining the WIFI connection. It is rarely recommended to use your data plan to view Netflix content as it will drain your monthly allowance.
This article will take a look at digging into how Netflix works on WIFI and what you might encounter as soon as you set things up.
How Does Netflix Work On WIFI?
1. Only Uses WIFI Connection
Netflix will start with a WIFI connection.
This is assuming you have turned on WIFI for your device. If it is receiving the WIFI connection then that is what Netflix is going to use to operate its streams.
However, if the WIFI connection on your device is turned off, Netflix will use what is turned on. This means it will use the data plan.
You will want to be careful about this when watching content on Netflix or you could end up blowing through your data limit.
Always look into this before you start using the platform. It will keep you safe and make sure the connection works out as you want it to.
2. Recommended To Turn Off Data
This is one of the main recommendations users should take into consideration before turning on Netflix.
Let’s assume you are thinking about watching a TV show through Netflix on your smartphone. You will want to turn on the platform and start watching right away.
While you can do this, it might also cause Netflix to start tapping into your data limit.
This is not good and will start to throttle your speed rapidly. Be careful before using Netflix and make sure you turn off the data plan if you do not want to connect to it.
This offers peace of mind as you will know Netflix is only going to use the WIFI connection when it is turned on.
It’s best to create a simple routine so Netflix only uses WIFI.
3. Uses Data For Backup
So, why does Netflix use data when WIFI is turned on?
If the data plan is turned on at the same time, it will be seen as a backup to the WIFI connection. This means the smartphone is going to do this with anything that is linked to the Internet and it won’t be Netflix alone that does it.
For example, if you are browsing the Internet, the phone will start using the data plan when the WIFI connection falters or disconnects.
This is to make sure your user experience does not drop.
Some users prefer this but most will not.
You want to consider this and make sure the smartphone does not use your data plan as a backup.
4. Primary Focus On Efficiency And Uptime
This is one of the most important details to think about when it comes to Netflix using WIFI on your smartphone.
The WIFI connection is going to be the primary option for Netflix but it is engineered to optimize for uptime. This means the connection should not lag or drop during a user’s viewing experience.
As a result, Netflix has coded its platform to make sure the uptime is in line with what you need.
This is going to start with using the data plan when the WIFI connection goes out.
As long as the stream is running, Netflix will not care how it is connected. This is up to the user.
Final Thoughts
Does Netflix use data on WIFI?
Netflix does use data when the WIFI connection disconnects. It’s recommended to turn off the data plan on your smartphone when connecting to Netflix. The only time it’s recommended to turn on the data plan is when the WIFI connection is too slow or keeps disconnecting.
Most users will only want to view Netflix through a WIFI connection.
If that is the case, it is best to look through the phone’s settings to ensure you are only connected to the WIFI connection in the area.
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