If you’ve recently switched to Netflix’s ad-supported plan, you might have noticed that the streaming experience feels a little less seamless. The smooth flow of your favorite shows or movies now gets interrupted by commercials, sometimes right at the most exciting moment. For many viewers, this is enough to start searching for solutions on how to block ads on Netflix and enjoy a more uninterrupted viewing experience.
I still remember the first time I encountered an ad during a binge-watch session, it instantly pulled me out of the story. While ads are part of the cheaper subscription tier, there are ways to minimize or remove them depending on your device and setup. Knowing these methods can help you stream your favorite content without constant interruptions.
In this guide, we’ll walk through:
- The main reasons why viewers want to block Netflix ads
- Step-by-step methods on how to block ads on Netflix
- A comparison of different approaches so you can choose the right one
- FAQs about what’s possible and what to avoid
Whether you’re looking for a quick, free fix or a long-term solution, this article will give you clear instructions and realistic expectations. Keep reading to learn the best strategies to enjoy Netflix without unwanted interruptions.
1. Why you should block ads on Netflix
Ads on Netflix can disrupt your movie nights, especially if you’re used to an uninterrupted binge-watching experience. Since the platform introduced its ad-supported plan, more users are looking for ways to enjoy content without commercial breaks. Blocking ads can help you:
- Maintain the flow of a story without pauses
- Avoid wasting time on unskippable ads
- Watch in higher quality without restrictions
- Access more titles and use features like downloads
If you want to keep your Netflix experience smooth and distraction-free, you need to know the most effective ways to stop those ads.
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2. Methods to block ads on Netflix
There are several ways to remove or avoid ads depending on your device, budget, and streaming preferences. Whether you want a quick browser fix or a permanent solution, these methods will help you learn how to block ads on Netflix easily.
2.1. Upgrade to an ad-free plan
Upgrading your Netflix subscription is the most straightforward way to remove ads completely. This method guarantees an ad-free experience across all devices.
Steps to upgrade:
- Log in to your Netflix account from any browser or the app.
- Click on your profile icon in the top-right corner.
- Select Account from the drop-down menu.
- Under Plan Details, click Change plan.
- Choose Standard or Premium, which are both ad-free.
- Confirm the change and start enjoying Netflix without ads.
This method is the most reliable, but it does require paying more for your subscription.
2.2. Use an ad blocker extension
If you mainly watch Netflix in a browser, an ad blocker is a quick and affordable way to block commercials. Tools like uBlock Origin, AdGuard, Adblock Plus, and Total Adblock can filter out Netflix ads effectively.
Steps to use an ad blocker:
Go to the Chrome Web Store. Search for a trusted ad blocker like AdGuard.
Install the App.
Scroll down and configure the AdGuard browser extension. Visit Netflix and start watching without interruptions.
Keep in mind, ad blockers only work in browsers and won’t block ads on Netflix apps for smart TVs or mobile devices.
2.3. Use a VPN to access Netflix
Some countries don’t have Netflix’s ad-supported tier yet. By using a VPN, you can connect to a server in one of these regions and watch without seeing any ads, even if your subscription is from a country that has them.
Steps to use a VPN:
Choose a reliable VPN service like NordVPN, Surfshark, or ExpressVPN.
Install the VPN app on your device.
Open the app and connect to a country without ad-supported Netflix (for example, Portugal or Poland). Log in to Netflix and start watching without ads.
Note: Some VPN servers may be blocked by Netflix, so you may need to try a few before finding one that works.
2.4. Download content for offline viewing
Downloading shows and movies lets you watch them without ads, buffering, or interruptions. This works best if your Netflix plan supports downloads.
Steps to download Netflix content:
Open the Netflix app on your phone, tablet, or computer (Windows app).
Search for a show or movie you want to watch.
Look for the download icon.
Tap the icon to save the content for offline viewing.
Go to the My Downloads section in the app to watch ad-free.
While not all titles are available for download, this method ensures uninterrupted viewing for supported content.
3. Comparison of methods
Before deciding on how to block ads on Netflix, it’s helpful to compare the pros and cons of each approach. Some methods offer complete ad removal but may cost more, while others are budget-friendly yet have limitations. The table below summarizes the main options so you can choose the one that best fits your needs.
| Method | Pros | Cons |
| Upgrade plan | 100% ad-free, works on all devices | Higher subscription cost |
| Browser ad blocker | Quick, free or low-cost | Doesn’t work on apps or smart TVs |
| VPN | Keep cheaper plan while avoiding ads | Requires setup, speed depends on server |
| Offline download | Smooth playback, ad-free, saves data | Not all content is available for download |
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4. FAQs about blocking ads on Netflix
If you’re considering ways to enjoy Netflix without interruptions, you might have a few common questions. Below are answers that explain what’s possible, what’s not, and how to make the most of your streaming experience while staying within Netflix’s rules.
Can I block ads on every device?
Not completely. Most ad-blocking tools are designed for web browsers, so they won’t work on Netflix apps for smart TVs, streaming sticks, or mobile devices. If you watch Netflix mainly on a browser like Chrome or Firefox, a browser ad blocker can help. For other devices, you may need to upgrade your plan or use alternative methods like downloading shows in advance.
Can Netflix detect and block VPNs?
Yes, Netflix actively monitors for VPN usage to enforce content licensing agreements. Some VPN servers may be blocked, causing streaming errors or preventing access to certain titles. However, a high-quality VPN with dedicated streaming servers and regular IP refreshes can reduce the chances of being detected.
Is downloading Netflix videos against the rules?
It depends on how you download them. Using Netflix’s built-in download feature in the official app is allowed and encouraged for offline viewing. However, using third-party tools to record or rip Netflix videos violates the platform’s terms of use and may lead to account restrictions.
Is there a 100% free way to block Netflix ads?
Unfortunately, no. While some browser ad blockers are free and work well for Netflix on a desktop browser, there’s no universal free solution that works on all devices. Paid methods, such as upgrading your plan or using a quality VPN, often deliver more consistent ad-free viewing.
Can I skip ads in the ad-supported plan?
Not directly. Ads in the ad-supported Netflix plan are unskippable by default. Some browser extensions claim to fast-forward or mute ads, but results can be inconsistent, and they generally won’t work outside of a web browser.
5. Conclusion
Blocking ads on Netflix can transform your streaming sessions into a smoother and more enjoyable experience. Whether you choose to upgrade your subscription, use a browser ad blocker, set up a VPN, or download content for offline viewing, there’s a solution that fits different budgets and devices. Understanding how to block ads on Netflix ensures you can keep your favorite shows running without unwanted interruptions.
Key points to remember:
- Upgrade to the ad-free plan for the most reliable, 100% ad-free experience.
- Use a browser ad blocker to filter ads on desktop streaming.
- Set up a VPN to bypass ads while keeping the cheaper subscription tier.
- Download videos offline for uninterrupted playback on any device.
- No single free method works perfectly across all platforms, but combining approaches can help.
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