How to set up Netflix | A step-by-step guide

We’ve got the low-down on getting set up with Netflix Singapore below.

Step 1. Make sure you own a compatible device

Check this list to ensure you have a Netflix-compatible device:

Step 2. Visit the Netflix website

Go to the official Netflix website. There’s no need to worry about finding the Singapore website as the Netflix website will automatically direct you there based on your location. Now that you’re on the Netflix website you should see the screen below.

Unless you already have a Netflix membership, click on the big red button “Join free for a month”.

Step 3. Choose the right plan

At the next screen, click on “See the plans” and you’ll be presented with three payment options: Basic, Standard and Premium. This decision will dictate the picture quality of your Netflix stream and the number of devices you will be able to watch Netflix on at the same time.

• The Basic pack is priced at $10.98 a month. This pack will only allow for one device to stream Netflix at any given time. So, if you can foresee multiple people in the house wanting to watch different programs simultaneously, this one might not be for you. This pack is also restricted from streaming high-definition quality videos.
• The Standard pack is priced at $13.98 and allows for two devices under the one account to stream Netflix at the same time. It also supports high-definition video. This pack would suit households with differing viewing preferences.
• The Premium pack is aimed more towards larger households with a variety of gadgets. At $16.98 per month, the Premium pack allows four different devices to stream Netflix at once, and supports Ultra HD streaming. Ultra HD (sometimes known as 4K) televisions are relatively new to the market, so be sure to check the compatibility of your device before signing up to this one.
• The Ultra pack is priced at $20.98 a month. This pack is targeted at those interested in getting exclusive behind-the-scenes and bonus content.

Step 4. Create your Netflix account

Once you’ve decided on a plan that suits your needs, you will be asked to create an account by entering your current, in-use email address (eg. johncitizen@hotmail.com) and selecting a new password. You’ll need this password later to sign into your device so be sure to keep it handy. After this, you can decide whether or not you would like to receive special offers from Netflix via the email address you’ve entered. You opt out of this simply by checking the box above the continue button.

Step 5. Payment options

Once you click “Continue” you will be taken to the payment options page. You can choose one of two ways to get charged: credit card or PayPal. Alternatively, Netflix also gives you the chance to redeem a gift code. If you have one, simply enter the gift card pin or code and you’ll be good to go.

You will be directed to the PayPal portal to confirm the purchase then promptly returned to the Netflix website. If you choose to pay via credit card, you will be asked to enter your credit card details into the relevant fields and check the box to confirm that you are over 18 and agree to the terms of use and privacy policy.

People are often wary about credit card use online, but rest assured, the Netflix payment portal is a secure server. If you need to get a credit card or want a new one specifically for online purchases, you can find a comparison of credit cards available in Singapore here.

Step 6. Set up Netflix

Netflix is available on just about every mainstream game console, smart device and computer. Some of your devices will already have Netflix installed as a result of a recent update. If this is not the case and you can’t seem to find it already installed on your device, here are some ways to download the application on different devices.

Desktop computer or laptop

Watching Netflix from the comfort of your computer is the easiest, most user-friendly way to enjoy Netflix. Simply go back to the official Netflix website after you’ve registered an account and sign in using the email and password you chose during the sign-up process.

iOS (iPhone, iPad)

Touch the App Store icon, just as you would download any other game or application. Touch the search tab (search glass) at the bottom of the screen and enter the term “Netflix” (it will be the first option to appear at the top of the page). Next to the App description, there will be a “Get” button. Touch that button and enter your iTunes password (or fingerprint if you have an iPhone 5s or above).

It’s a small download so it shouldn’t take too long. Enter the registered email address and password you chose before.

Windows Phone

To install Netflix on your Windows Phone tap the Store app on the Home screen. Then, tap the Search button and search for Netflix. Once it appears, tap the Netflix app and press Install. That’s it – the Netflix app will appear in the Apps menu.

Android (Samsung, HTC, Xperia and more)

Access the Google Play store by tapping the icon.

Select the search glass icon in the top right corner of the screen then type the word Netflix into the search bar.

Select the top entry Netflix. Tap the green Install button to the right of the app description and agree to the terms and conditions.

Once downloaded, the Netflix application will automatically appear in Apps. To relocate the application to the home screen simply hold your finger down on the icon and move it to a spot on the home screen.

PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4

At the home screen, go to the TV/Video Services (PS3) or TV & Video (PS4) tab. There you should find the Netflix icon. Select that and the application will download to your console. Once the application is fully downloaded, select Netflix again. A welcome screen will now greet you. Enter your registered email address and password.[/fin_did_you_know]

Xbox 360 and Xbox One

From your Xbox dashboard go to the Apps section. There you will find a Netflix icon. If you don’t see Netflix, select “Search all apps” to search for it. Select Download (Xbox 360) or Install (Xbox One). Once the download is complete the Netflix icon will automatically appear on your dashboard or home screen. Select the Netflix application from your home screen and enter your chosen email address and password.

Nintendo Wii U

Step 7. Start browsing Netflix

Now you’ve signed in and you can start watching Netflix programs. First, you will be met with a screen asking “Who’s Watching?” If you tap your registered name it will take you straight through to a variety of categories, but you can add another profile with the plus button or select “Kids”, which filters out any content that may not be age appropriate. Once you’re in you can browse through the most popular television shows on the home screen, filter by category with the menu icon in the top left corner of the screen, or search for a particular show by pressing the search glass in the top right corner of the screen.

Alternative streaming providers

If you’re struggling to get started with Netflix, you could always consider another streaming provider. For a full comparison of providers, head to our hub.

Zyane Tan

Zyane is an associate editor for Singapore at Finder. An experienced copywriter and content creator, Zyane enjoys writing on a wide array of subjects. When she’s not busy typing away, she’s reading and musing over a pint.