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How to Fix Sundance Now Keeps Buffering Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

If you love watching shows and movies on Sundance Now but keep experiencing buffering issues on your Windows 11 device, you’re not alone. Buffering can interrupt your viewing experience and cause frustration. Luckily, there are simple ways to fix this problem and enjoy smooth streaming again.

This article will guide you through easy, step-by-step solutions to resolve the Sundance Now buffering error on Windows 11. Each step is explained in a straightforward way, so even beginners can follow along.

By following these instructions, you can improve your streaming performance and reduce interruptions. Let’s get started and fix that buffering issue for good.

Remember, some fixes are quick and easy while others may require a bit more effort but are very effective.

Quick Note: Basic Checks Before You Begin

  • Check Your Internet Connection: Streaming requires a stable and fast internet connection. Make sure you have at least 5 Mbps for HD streaming.
  • Restart Your Device: Sometimes, simply restarting your Windows 11 PC can clear temporary glitches causing buffering.
  • Update Sundance Now App or Browser: If you use the Sundance Now app or watch through a browser, ensure it is up to date.
  • Close Background Applications: Other programs using your internet can slow down streaming, so close unnecessary apps.

Step 1: Clear Your Browser Cache and Cookies

If you watch Sundance Now on a web browser like Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome, clearing the cache and cookies can help. Cached files might be corrupted or outdated, leading to buffering.

  1. Open your browser.
  2. Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete to open the Clear Browsing Data window.
  3. Select Cached images and files and Cookies and other site data.
  4. Set the time range to All time.
  5. Click Clear data.
  6. Restart your browser and try streaming again.

This step removes old data that may interfere with streaming and forces the browser to load fresh content.

Step 2: Update Windows and Your Drivers

Windows updates often include important fixes that improve system performance and compatibility. Outdated network drivers can cause slow internet speeds and buffering.

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Go to Windows Update and click Check for updates.
  3. Install any available updates and restart your PC.
  4. To update network drivers, right-click Start and choose Device Manager.
  5. Expand Network adapters, right-click your adapter, and select Update driver.
  6. Choose Search automatically for drivers and follow prompts.

Keeping your system updated helps maintain smooth internet connectivity, which is crucial for streaming without buffering.

Step 3: Change DNS Settings for Faster Streaming

Sometimes, your default DNS server may be slow or unreliable. Changing to a public DNS like Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS can improve streaming speed.

  1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Network & Internet > Advanced network settings > More network adapter options.
  3. Right-click your internet connection and select Properties.
  4. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.
  5. Choose Use the following DNS server addresses.
  6. Enter these DNS addresses:
    Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
    Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4
  7. Click OK and restart your internet connection.

This change can reduce buffering by speeding up domain name resolution, helping your device find the Sundance Now servers faster.

Step 4: Lower Streaming Quality on Sundance Now

If your internet connection is slow or inconsistent, lowering the video quality can reduce buffering. Sundance Now usually has an option to adjust streaming quality in the player settings.

  1. Start playing a video on Sundance Now.
  2. Look for the Settings or gear icon on the video player.
  3. Select Quality or Video Quality.
  4. Choose a lower resolution like 480p or 720p instead of 1080p or 4K.

Lower quality uses less bandwidth and helps prevent buffering if your connection is not very fast.

Step 5: Disable VPN or Proxy Services

Using a VPN or proxy can slow down your internet speed and cause buffering on streaming services. Try disabling these services temporarily to see if it fixes the problem.

  1. If you’re using a VPN app, open it and disconnect or turn it off.
  2. If you use a proxy, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Proxy and turn off any manual proxy setup.
  3. Restart your browser or Sundance Now app and stream again.

Disabling VPNs or proxies removes extra routing steps that can slow down streaming speed and cause buffering.

Step 6: Use the Sundance Now Desktop App Instead of Browser

If you usually watch Sundance Now through a browser, try downloading and installing the Sundance Now desktop app for Windows. The app is optimized for streaming and can sometimes fix buffering issues caused by browser incompatibilities.

  1. Visit the official Sundance Now website.
  2. Download the Windows app.
  3. Install and log in with your account.
  4. Try streaming your content in the app and check if buffering improves.

Apps often provide a smoother experience than browsers because they manage resources better.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does Sundance Now keep buffering on Windows 11?

Buffering usually happens due to slow or unstable internet connections, outdated software, or network issues. Windows 11 settings or drivers may also affect streaming performance.

How fast should my internet be for Sundance Now?

A minimum of 5 Mbps download speed is recommended for HD streaming. Faster speeds (10 Mbps or more) are better for higher resolutions and multiple devices.

Can clearing cookies really fix buffering?

Yes. Cookies and cached data can sometimes become corrupted, causing playback problems. Clearing them forces the browser to load fresh data.

Is it better to use the Sundance Now app or browser?

The app is generally more reliable and optimized for streaming, so it often provides a better experience with fewer buffering issues.

Will disabling VPN affect my privacy?

Disabling VPN removes the extra layer of privacy and security it provides. Use this step only for troubleshooting and consider enabling VPN again after streaming.

What if my drivers are up to date but buffering continues?

Try other steps like changing DNS, lowering video quality, or reinstalling the app. If buffering persists, your internet connection might be the main issue.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above methods and Sundance Now still keeps buffering on your Windows 11 device, consider these final options:

  • Contact Sundance Now Support: Visit their official help center or customer support for personalized assistance.
  • Test Your Internet Speed: Use sites like Speedtest.net to check if your connection is stable and fast enough.
  • Try Streaming on Another Device: This can help identify if the issue is with your Windows 11 PC or your network.
  • Reset Network Settings: In Windows 11, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings > Network reset. This will reinstall network adapters and set settings back to default.

Conclusion

Buffering on Sundance Now can be frustrating but is often easy to fix with a few simple steps. Start by checking your internet speed and restarting your device. Clearing your browser cache, updating Windows and drivers, and adjusting DNS settings can significantly improve streaming quality.

Lowering video quality or disabling VPNs also helps if your connection is slow. Using the Sundance Now desktop app instead of a browser may provide a smoother experience.

If problems persist, don’t hesitate to reach out to Sundance Now support or test your network thoroughly. With these tips, you can enjoy your favorite shows and movies without interruptions on Windows 11.

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