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You cannot currently download Netflix TV shows or movies to a Windows computer. Netflix removed offline downloads from its Windows app. The current app supports streaming, including through some ad-supported plans, but it does not provide a Download button for offline playback.
This applies whether you use the Netflix app from the Microsoft Store or watch Netflix in Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or another browser. Netflix’s supported download devices are Android phones and tablets, iPhone and iPad, Amazon Fire tablets, and compatible Google Chromebooks—not Windows PCs.
Why Netflix downloads do not work on Windows
Netflix replaced the older Windows app with a new version that adds features such as live-event support, improved streaming quality, and compatibility with ad-supported plans. The replacement app removed offline downloads. Any downloads stored by the old app are not retained after the change.
If you try to download a title in the current Windows app, you may see:
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Download Error — There was a problem with this download. (VC2-CV1-ER)
This is not normally a Microsoft Store fault, a storage problem, or a setting that can be fixed in Windows. Netflix identifies the error as a result of the Windows app no longer supporting downloads.
Netflix also says there is no supported way to return to the old Windows app version. Reinstalling the app, changing browser settings, or using a command-line tool will not restore official Netflix downloads.
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Stream through the Netflix app
The current Netflix app remains useful for streaming. To install or update it:
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- Open the Start menu.
- Select Microsoft Store or Store.
- Select Search.
- Type
Netflixand press Enter. - Select Netflix in the results.
- Select Install, or select Update if it is already installed.
- Open Netflix from the Start menu.
- Select Sign In and enter your Netflix email address and password.
The Windows app supports Windows 10 and later. Microsoft Edge must also be installed, even if you normally use another browser.
Stream from a web browser
Open netflix.com in a supported desktop browser and sign in. Browser playback is a streaming option only; it does not add an offline-download feature.
How to download Netflix content for offline viewing
Use one of Netflix’s supported download devices instead of a Windows PC:
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One-click scans. No signup required.
| Device | Netflix downloads supported? | Where to get the app |
|---|---|---|
| Android phone or tablet | Yes | Google Play Store |
| iPhone or iPad | Yes | Apple App Store |
| Amazon Fire tablet | Yes | Amazon Appstore |
| Google Chromebook with Google Play Store | Yes | Google Play Store |
| Windows 10 or 11 computer | No | Microsoft Store app or browser for streaming only |
On a supported device, open the Netflix app, choose a title, and look for the Download icon. Downloaded videos stay inside the Netflix app and are not ordinary video files that you can copy to Windows.
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What to do if the Download button is missing on a supported device
On Android, iPhone, iPad, Fire tablets, and compatible Chromebooks, a missing Download icon does not always indicate a technical problem. Netflix may not have download rights for that title. Licensing restrictions can apply because another company owns exclusive rights, download rights were not purchased, or availability differs by country. Some titles called Netflix Originals are also unavailable for download when Netflix has streaming rights but another studio controls related rights.
Downloads can also expire. If a title leaves Netflix, you cannot renew or download it again. Some titles have limits on how often they can be downloaded or renewed because of licensing agreements.
What happened to existing Windows downloads?
When the newer Windows app replaces the old app, previous downloads are unavailable. Netflix does not provide a restoration process or an option to install the old version again.
Likewise, uninstalling or resetting the Netflix app, clearing its app data, or otherwise removing its local storage deletes downloads on devices that support offline viewing. Those downloads must be made again—provided the title is still available and the device has download rights.
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- Pixelbook Go starts up in seconds, and makes working a breeze. The 8th Gen Intel Core processor is built for speed and responsiveness, powering everything you do. And when you need quick help, just ask Google.
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Does an ad-supported Netflix plan support Windows downloads?
No. An ad-supported plan may work with the current Windows app for streaming, but it does not bring back offline downloads. Netflix’s Smart Downloads features are also not available on ad-supported plans, and features such as Downloads for You are intended for supported mobile devices rather than Windows.
Common claims that no longer work
| Claim | Current situation |
|---|---|
| Install Netflix from the Microsoft Store and click Download. | Outdated. The current Windows app has no download feature. |
| Reinstall the old Netflix app. | Not supported. Netflix says you cannot go back to the old app version. |
| Download from Netflix.com in Edge or Chrome. | Not supported. Browsers provide streaming, not offline downloads. |
| Use a Windows command or browser extension to enable downloads. | There is no Netflix-supported command, setting, or workaround for this. |
| Copy a Netflix download from a phone to the PC. | Not supported. Downloads are protected app data, not transferable video files. |
Official Netflix help
- Netflix: Downloads on Windows
- Netflix error VC2-CV1-ER
- Netflix download troubleshooting and supported devices
- Installing Netflix on Windows
FAQ
Can I download Netflix movies to a Windows 11 laptop?
No. Netflix’s current Windows app does not support downloads, and Netflix.com in a browser is for streaming only.
Can I download Netflix shows to a Windows 10 PC?
No. The restriction applies to Windows 10 and later. The app can stream on Windows, but it cannot save titles for offline playback.
Why does Netflix show error VC2-CV1-ER?
The error means the Windows app is attempting an unsupported download. Netflix removed the download feature from the current Windows app.
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- Pixelbook Go starts up in seconds, and makes working a breeze. The 8th Gen Intel Core processor is built for speed and responsiveness, powering everything you do. And when you need quick help, just ask Google.
- Pixelbook Go is designed to prevent things from getting off track. The Titan C security chip and built-in anti-virus software help protect your data. And Chrome OS updates automatically, always giving you the latest features and security.
- A backlit keyboard and Hush Keys make using Pixelbook Go comfortable and quiet. The touchpad is spacious and accurate, so you only need to use a light touch. The fanless design stays cool to let you comfortably use it on your lap.
Can I install an older Netflix Windows app to get downloads back?
No. Netflix says there is no way to return to the old app version once the newer app is in use.
Which devices support Netflix offline downloads?
Netflix supports downloads in its apps for Android phones and tablets, iPhone and iPad, Amazon Fire tablets, and Google Chromebooks with the Google Play Store installed.
Can I use a browser extension or command to download Netflix videos on Windows?
Netflix provides no supported browser setting, command, or tool that enables Windows downloads. Use a supported mobile device or Chromebook for offline viewing.
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Bottom line: Netflix downloads to a Windows computer are no longer available. Install the current Windows app or use netflix.com to stream. For offline viewing, download titles through the Netflix app on a supported Android, Apple, Amazon Fire, or Google Chromebook device.
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