Like most streaming apps/websites, errors and issues can also occur on Disney Plus. One of the most commonly reported problems is constant buffering. This article discusses the causes and provides solutions to repeated buffering on Disney+. While some are hardware related, most are software issues. Let us begin!
Step 1. Check your Internet connection
The most common culprit of buffering is a weak or intermittent Internet connection. Streaming content requires a lot of bandwidth and buffering occurs when data experiences interruptions.
The official Disney Plus recommended internet speed is 5.0 Mbps if you want your content in high definition (720p or 1080p) or 25 Mbps if you want to stream in 4k Ultra HD. However, those specs are the bare minimum and you should probably have even higher speeds to get the best performance.
It is best to perform a speed test to confirm that the Internet is causing the buffering issues. You can use the Speed Test Website to determine your download and upload speeds. A speed test will tell you your download and upload speeds and show you if you are experiencing intermittent data loss (connection goes in and out).
If the speed test determines a problem with your Internet connection, you’re not entirely out of luck. Here’s what you should do if you have a bad Internet connection:
- Switch to another network. If you have other options (a mobile network, another WiFi network, etc.), try connecting to another network and see if the buffering stops.
- Restart your router. If you normally have enough bandwidth to support streaming, but it is not working properly at the moment, unplug your router and wait 30 seconds. Then plug it back in, wait for the lights to stabilize, and try watching Disney Plus again.
- Disconnect other devices from the Internet and close unused web pages. Maybe you’re not getting the data speeds you need because there are too many devices connected to your WiFi or you have too many browsers and apps open on your device. Close unused apps and browsers and disconnect any other devices connected to your network.
- Turn off your VPN or move to a different location. A VPN can cause buffering if the server location is too far away or there is a technical problem.
If your internet speed and data transfer are not the problem, check out the other solutions below. However, if your Internet is too slow, talk to your ISP about upgrading the package or switching to a better ISP.
Step 2 – Make sure the software is up to date
Maybe your internet speeds are fast enough to support Disney Plus, but the content is still buffering. Another common culprit is outdated software. App developers often release updates to fix bugs and glitches and implement new security protocols. Whether your device is running outdated software or the Disney Plus app, buffering can be a side effect.
First, make sure you are using the latest version of the Disney Plus app for Android or iOS devices. Simply tap the link on your device and select “Update” if the option appears. If you see “Open” instead of update, the app is already running the latest version.
Once the app has updated, try watching Disney Plus again. If buffering continues, check your streaming device for a software update.
Instructions for updating your device’s software vary, but you’ll find the “Software” option in the “Settings” from almost all devices compatible with Disney Plus.
Step 3: Check the hardware
In addition to software, hardware can also cause problems. Although probably already know if your device is compatible With Disney+, you can verify that your computer or browser is enabled as well (if you’re using a PC). Assuming the device you’re using meets the Disney Plus system requirements, the next step is to check the cables.
Believe it or not, Disney Plus recommends cables for the best streaming experience. If you use a smart TV, Roku, Fire TV, etc., you must use the following HDMI cables: HDCP 2.2 or higher.
These cables offer high-quality, high-speed transmission without buffering, especially in UHD transmission scenarios. Please make sure your device is compatible with these cables.
Step 4: Try restarting everything
You can also try the old trusty reset option. Some call this the energy cycle. This is when you turn everything off and on. Everything includes your streaming device, your modem, and your router. Do the following:
- Turn off the modem and router by pressing the power button or unplugging them from the power source.
- Turn off your streaming device (TV, tablet, computer, etc.).
- After a good minute, turn the modem and router back on.
- Turn on your streaming device.
This power cycle can solve many playback problems, including buffering. Restart Disney Plus on your streaming device and see if the issue persists.
Step 5 – Clear cookies and cached data
Some data is cached each time you use your browser, as are website cookies. But sometimes, this can overload your browser and cause Disney+ to buffer, especially if you haven’t cleared the cache in a while. Since the steps differ for each browser, check the official support page for instructions.
How to clear browser data and cache on a PC
- Launch your chosen browser on Windows, macOS or Linux.
- Access options, settings, either preferences.
- Choose History either Privacy and find where you can delete your browsing data.
- Finally, clear recent history, cache and data. Make sure to select and delete everything.
How to clear mobile browser data/cache on Android:
You can also clear data and cache on Android tablets and phones from settings.
- Open “Settings,” then choose “Applications and notifications.”
- Tap “See all ### apps.”
- Browse and select the “Disney+” application.
- Select “Storage and cache.”
- Tap[on[on“Empty storage” followed by “Clear cache.”
In closing, patience can go a long way when facing buffering issues in Disnery Plus. Sometimes the service becomes overloaded due to having too many active users. Other times, specific streaming servers become overloaded due to high traffic. Of course, there are also popular shows or movies to consider. They can also generate too much traffic on a server at certain times. Lastly, server crashes and errors can also cause constant buffering.
If you have followed all the steps mentioned in the article and your content is still buffering, you may want to contact the official Disney Plus customer support team as a last resort.
Disney Plus Buffering Issues FAQ
I don’t have a good internet connection for Disney+. What else can I do?
Unfortunately, some areas do not have a great internet connection. If your Internet is slow, you probably won’t be able to enjoy Disney+ via streaming. Fortunately, Disney+ allows you to download content to watch offline later.
This solution is great because you can download it to your mobile device with a faster connection in another location or download content at your slower speed (which may take a while). Once the download is complete, you can watch it anytime, anywhere.
All you need to do to download your favorite shows and movies is select something you want to watch. Tap the download icon (an arrow with a line below it). Wait for it to download and then play it.
I tried everything, but Disney+ still buffers. What else can I do?
Assuming you have a good connection and the app is working correctly, you may still have problems. It’s a good idea to try streaming on another device. For example, if it works fine on an Xbox but not on your PC, there is a device-specific issue. But, if all your devices are buffering Disney+, it may be an issue with the streaming service.
To make sure it’s not a problem on Disney’s part, check the DownDetector website. Type ‘Disney Plus’ and click Enter. Review any reported outages. You can also read complaints from other users. Unfortunately, you’ll have to wait for updated problem reports. The developers behind Disney+ are likely aware of the issue and are working to fix it.
